INSURANCE GUIDE
Tree Surgeon Insurance UK
Public liability, employers liability and specialist arborist cover for UK tree surgeons and arboricultural contractors.
TL;DR
- Public liability is essential for tree surgeons - aerial work and falling timber create significant third-party exposure.
- Most standard tradesman policies exclude aerial work above a specified height - check the working-at-height limit.
- Employers liability is legally required if you have any staff or direct any labour on site.
- Contract works and plant insurance cover machinery and work in progress - public liability does not.
Why Tree Surgeons Need Specialist Insurance
Tree surgery involves aerial work with chainsaws, heavy machinery, and falling timber - a combination that creates exceptional liability exposure. Standard tradesman public liability policies frequently exclude aerial work above 3m, work with chainsaws, or the felling of trees above a specified size. Tree surgeons need a policy specifically underwritten for arboricultural work.
Public Liability for Arborists
Public liability covers compensation and legal costs if your tree surgery work causes injury to a third party or damage to their property. Common claim scenarios: a falling branch or felled tree damaging a neighbour's fence, vehicle, or building; a passerby injured by a falling limb; a client's garden features or outbuildings damaged during the operation. Cover limits of £2m and £5m are standard; larger commercial contracts typically require £5m or £10m.
Working at Height and Chainsaw Cover
Confirm that your policy explicitly covers: aerial tree surgery using ropes and harnesses; use of chainsaws at height; use of elevated work platforms and cherry pickers; and felling of trees above a specified diameter. These are the activities most likely to be excluded or sub-limited in a generic public liability policy. The HSE's Work at Height Regulations 2005 impose duties on employers and the self-employed to manage aerial risk - insurance follows conduct, so maintaining compliance with these regulations is important for any claim to be paid.
Plant and Machinery Insurance
Chippers, stump grinders, timber processors, and elevated work platforms are high-value items not covered under public liability. Plant insurance covers theft, accidental damage, and mechanical breakdown of owned machinery. Hired-in plant insurance covers equipment rented from a hire company during the hire period.
Employers Liability
Tree surgery teams frequently include multiple operatives working together on site. If you employ anyone or direct labour-only subcontractors, employers liability insurance of at least £5m is legally required under the Employers Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969. Tree surgery is classified as a high-risk trade for employers liability purposes and premiums reflect this.
Waste Carrier Licence
Transporting green waste from site requires a waste carrier licence from the Environment Agency - this is a regulatory requirement separate from insurance. If you transport arisings without a licence, any insurance claim arising from a waste-related incident may be complicated by non-compliance with regulatory requirements.
Related Guides
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute financial or insurance advice. Kaeltripton.com is not regulated by the FCA. Always read policy documents in full before purchasing cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does standard public liability cover tree surgery?
Standard tradesman public liability policies frequently exclude aerial work and chainsaw use. You need a policy specifically designed for arboricultural contractors that explicitly covers tree climbing, aerial chainsaw work, and timber felling. Always disclose your trade and activities accurately when applying for cover.
How much public liability cover do tree surgeons need?
Most commercial contracts and local authority frameworks require at least £5m. Domestic work can often be covered at £2m. If you work near highways, railways, or commercial premises, discuss appropriate limits with an arboricultural insurance specialist as claims potential is higher near infrastructure.
Is tree surgery covered under a general contractor policy?
Tree surgery is typically classified separately from general construction or groundworks. A general contractor policy will often explicitly exclude it. Always declare arboricultural activities when arranging cover and obtain a policy from an insurer who has specifically rated for this trade.
