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Snow Removal Insurance: A Guide to Coverage, Costs, and Risk Management
- Mark Vincent Ellema
- Dec 17, 2025
- 5 min read
Snow removal is a high-risk, high-liability business—especially in winter-heavy states like Connecticut. One slip-and-fall claim, damaged property incident, or auto accident can wipe out a season’s profits. That’s where snow removal insurance comes in.
This guide breaks down what snow removal insurance covers, how much it costs, and how to manage risk effectively, whether you’re an independent plow operator or a full-scale snow management company.
What you need to know about snow removal insurance:
What Is Snow Removal Insurance?
Snow removal insurance isn’t a single policy—it’s a customized bundle of coverages designed to protect contractors who plow, salt, shovel, and haul snow.
Because snow contractors face elevated liability exposure, insurers evaluate these businesses differently than standard landscapers or general contractors.
Why Snow Removal Businesses Face Higher Risk
Snow removal work creates time-sensitive, weather-driven liability, including:
Slip-and-fall claims on icy walkways
Property damage to curbs, cars, and buildings
Accidents involving plow trucks
Claims are triggered after services are completed
Disputes over “failure to clear” or “improper salting.”
According to data cited by the Insurance Information Institute, slip-and-fall injuries are among the most common and costly liability claims for service-based businesses—making proper coverage essential.
Essential Snow Removal Insurance Coverages
Snow removal is a high-risk business, so the right insurance coverages are critical to protect your business, employees, and clients. Here’s a breakdown of the most important coverages:
1. General Liability Insurance (Required by Most Contracts)
What it is: General liability insurance protects your business if a third party suffers bodily injury or property damage as a result of your work. It’s the foundation of your insurance program.
Why it matters for snow removal: Snow and ice create a high risk for slip-and-fall accidents. A single claim can cost tens of thousands of dollars if not covered.
Examples of coverage:
A pedestrian slips on an icy sidewalk you just cleared.
Your plow accidentally damages a storefront or parked vehicle.
Ice melt or salt application causes surface damage.
⚠️ Important: Many standard general liability policies exclude snow removal. You often need a specific snow removal endorsement to ensure coverage.
2. Commercial Auto Insurance
What it is: If you operate trucks, plows, or salt spreaders, commercial auto insurance is essential. Personal auto policies do not cover business vehicles or work-related accidents.
Coverage highlights:
Accidents while plowing snow on client property or streets.
Damage caused by attached equipment like plows or spreaders.
Liability for injuries to pedestrians, other drivers, or bystanders.
Why it’s critical: Your vehicles are your main tools. Without proper coverage, even a minor accident could result in high out-of-pocket costs or lawsuits.
3. Workers’ Compensation Insurance
What it is: Workers’ compensation insurance is required in Connecticut if you have employees, including seasonal or part-time workers.
Coverage includes:
Slip-and-fall injuries while clearing snow.
Back strains or repetitive motion injuries from shoveling or plowing.
Cold-weather-related accidents, frostbite, or hypothermia.
Extra note: Even if you use subcontractors, many clients require proof of workers’ comp coverage to reduce liability.
4. Inland Marine/Equipment Coverage
What it is: Inland marine insurance protects your equipment and tools against damage, theft, or loss—whether on-site, in transit, or in storage.
Typical equipment covered:
Snowplows and trucks
Salt spreaders and snow blowers
Loaders or skid steers
Why it’s important: Snow removal equipment is expensive to replace. Without coverage, damage during transport or on the job could create major financial strain.
Optional but Highly Recommended Coverages
While the four coverages above form the foundation, these optional policies help manage additional risks:
Coverage | Why It Matters |
Umbrella Insurance | Provides extra liability limits for large claims that exceed your primary policy. |
Errors & Omissions | Protects against claims related to improper snow removal or missed services. |
Business Interruption | Covers lost income if bad weather delays work or equipment breakdowns prevent service. |
Pollution Liability | Protects against environmental damage, such as salt or chemical runoff harming plants, waterways, or property. |
How Much Does Snow Removal Insurance Cost?
Costs vary depending on business size, risk exposure, and coverage levels.
Average Annual Cost Ranges:
Business Type | Estimated Cost |
Solo plow operator | $750 – $1,500 |
Small crew (1–3 trucks) | $1,500 – $3,500 |
Medium operation | $3,500 – $7,500+ |
Factors that affect your premium:
Number of vehicles and equipment
Claims history and past losses
Type of clients (residential vs commercial)
Use of subcontractors
Scope of services (plowing vs ice management)
Coverage limits and deductibles
💡 Commercial contracts often require higher coverage limits, which increases premiums, but protects your business from costly lawsuits.
Risk Management Tips for Snow Removal Contractors
Insurance protects you after an accident, but prevention reduces claims and keeps premiums lower. Here’s how:
Best practices insurers look for:
Written snow removal contracts clearly defining your responsibilities.
Time-stamped service logs or photos of completed work.
Pre-season site inspections to identify hazards.
Documentation of weather conditions before, during, and after service.
Proper employee training on safe snow removal techniques.
Use of calibrated spreading equipment to prevent over-salting or under-salting.
Documentation is your strongest defense: many slip-and-fall claims hinge on when and how snow or ice was treated. Detailed logs and photos can be crucial evidence to defend your business in a claim.
Common Coverage Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Assuming landscaping or general business insurance automatically covers snow removal.
❌ Skipping completed operations coverage—claims often arise after the job is finished.
❌ Using personal auto insurance for plow trucks.
❌ Hiring subcontractors without insurance.
❌ Choosing policy limits that don’t meet contract requirements.
Snow Removal Insurance Requirements in Connecticut
While snow removal insurance is not mandated by state law, most commercial clients,
HOAs, and municipal contracts require:
General liability insurance (typically $1 million per occurrence)
Workers’ compensation insurance
Commercial auto insurance
Certificate of insurance (COI) naming the client as an additional insured
Many contracts, especially with municipalities or commercial properties, may require higher limits or umbrella coverage.
Protect Your Business Before the Snow Falls
Snow removal insurance isn’t just about compliance—it’s about survival. One uncovered claim can end a season—or a business.
If you’re operating in Connecticut or surrounding states, working with an independent insurance broker ensures your coverage actually matches how you work—not how insurers assume you do.
Need help reviewing or securing snow removal insurance? A broker can help you compare carriers, close coverage gaps, and meet contract requirements—before winter hits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does general liability insurance cover slip-and-fall claims?
Yes—if snow removal is not excluded and the claim falls within policy terms.
Can I get snow removal insurance for seasonal work only?
Some insurers offer seasonal endorsements, but many policies remain annual.
Do subcontractors need their own insurance?
Yes. Always require certificates of insurance to avoid liability gaps.
Is salting considered pollution?
It can be. Pollution liability coverage may be needed for large-scale operations.
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