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What You Need to Know About Pest Control Insurance
This guide breaks down the main types of insurance pest control companies need, why each one matters, and how they work together to protect your business.
What kind of insurance does a pest control business need?
Pest control operators face a mix of risks that other small businesses don’t. You work with chemicals, handle specialized equipment, and enter client properties on a daily basis.
To protect their company from unexpected costs and legal claims, most pest control business owners have the following coverages:
- General Liability Insurance
- Workers Compensation Insurance
- Commercial Auto Insurance
- Professional Liability Insurance
- Property Insurance
- Umbrella Insurance
Together, these policies safeguard your operations, meet state requirements, and help customers feel confident choosing your company.
Why is general liability insurance important for pest control businesses?
General liability insurance is often the first coverage pest control operators purchase, for good reason. It helps cover third-party property damage, bodily injury, and related cleanup or legal expenses.
Example: An employee accidentally spills pesticide on a client’s hardwood floor, causing damage to the flooring and requiring a cleanup. General liability insurance can help cover the costs of repair and remediation.
Many commercial clients and municipal contracts in the Mid-Atlantic require proof of liability insurance before you can start a job, making this policy both a financial safeguard and a business essential.
Do pest control companies need workers compensation insurance?
If you have employees, workers compensation insurance is required in nearly every Mid-Atlantic state. Though the specifics vary—for instance, Virginia and Maryland have different employee thresholds—the purpose is the same: to protect your staff and your business.
Workers compensation covers medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs if an employee is injured on the job. Beyond simple compliance, workers comp also helps protect your team and your business from costly lawsuits related to workplace injuries.
What type of auto insurance does a pest control company need?
Because pest control work usually involves driving between multiple client locations, commercial auto insurance is essential.
Commercial auto insurance covers company-owned or leased vehicles used for business purposes, including:
- Collisions and liability claims
- Theft or vandalism
- Property damage caused by company vehicles
Even if you or your employees use personal vehicles for work, personal auto insurance won’t cover business-related accidents.
Is professional liability insurance worth it for pest control businesses?
Mistakes happen, and—in pest control—a small error can quickly escalate into a significant expense. Professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance, protects against claims arising from professional errors, negligence, or unsatisfactory service.
Example: A termite treatment doesn’t eliminate a client’s infestation, and they later discover extensive structural damage. Professional liability insurance could help cover repair costs or legal fees if your company is held responsible.
While not always required, this coverage adds valuable protection for businesses that offer specialized expertise or service guarantees.
How does property insurance protect a pest control business?
From office spaces to chemical storage units, pest control businesses depend on equipment and property that can be costly to replace. Commercial property insurance helps cover your physical assets in case of:
- Fire, storm, or water damage
- Theft or vandalism
- Equipment breakdowns
For businesses that keep equipment on the move, inland marine insurance can provide financial protection for sprayers, traps, or tools stored in vehicles or taken to job sites.
Whether you own or lease your building, this coverage helps ensure your operation can recover quickly after a loss.
What is umbrella insurance, and do pest control businesses need it?
Umbrella insurance provides an extra layer of financial protection beyond your existing liability policy limits.
Suppose a lawsuit or accident results in costs that exceed your general liability or commercial auto limits. In that case, an umbrella policy can help cover the difference. It’s an affordable way to strengthen your financial protection against large or unexpected claims.
How can I get the right coverage for my pest control business?
The right insurance mix for your business depends on a few factors, including your services, equipment, and team size.
At Puffenbarger Insurance, we understand the challenges pest control professionals across the Mid-Atlantic region face. Our experienced agents can help you design a policy package that fits your operation, ensures compliance with state laws, and protects what you’ve built.
Ready to protect your pest control business?
Get in touch with our team today!
