Florida/Texas—As we get closer to Spring, landscaping businesses get prepared for their high season. According to sources from the National Association of Landscape Professionals, coming off of COVID-19 the industry saw an uptick, as homeowners reconnected to the outdoors and recognized their living landscape as a safe space. It certainly translated into investments in their landscapes, hardscapes and pools. On the other hand, an increase in business, combined with ongoing supply chain impacts from the pandemic, means contractors may be facing challenges in availability of labor as well as reliable materials availability — including engine product, hardscape supplies and parts. But that is not enough to stop an industry with a very positive outlook for the upcoming years, 2022 included.
As a landscaping business owner, you have a lot to keep an eye on – from expensive equipment to trucks and trailers and all types of tools. You also need to take good care of your employees. Having an adequate insurance coverage can help you run your business smoothly, knowing that everything you have is well protected.
It is of paramount importance to follow, and be in compliance with, all regulations from state and county of your areas of service. Pesticides and fertilizers are two areas that can get you into a lot of trouble when not properly following the regulatory programs.
There is no state license requirement for landscapers working in Texas. However, if you’ll be applying restricted-use or state-limited-use pesticides as part of your lawn care or landscaping service, you must hold a commercial pesticide applicator license. This is awarded by the Texas Department of Agriculture. You’ll need to pass the general standards exam, as well as at least one category exam, such as 3A - Lawn and Ornamental Pest Control, Landscape Maintenance. In Florida, usually you don’t need a state license to work as a landscaper, but there are also some circumstances in which you will need a license. If you’ll be applying restricted-use pesticides to outdoor areas, you’ll need a Commercial Pesticide Applicator license from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. You’ll need to pass a core exam, as well as the Ornamental and Turf category exam.
The fertilizer industry in Florida is vital in support of an agricultural community that contributes over $7 Billion annually to Florida’s economy, second only to tourism. In the Fiscal Year 2015 - 2016, Florida fertilizer licensees report distributing over 1.9 million tons of fertilizer annually.
Who Needs Tree and Landscaping Insurance?
- Landscapers
- Tree Trimmers
- Landscape Architects
- Landscape Designers
- Lawn Irrigation Contractors
Types of Landscaping Insurance Coverage
At Garzor Insurance we care about your business. Our experienced professionals are dedicated to providing commercial insurance, including BOP coverage and business general liability coverage in Florida as well as Texas, and now many other states across the U.S. If you also have questions about truck or other commercial vehicles insurance, or any other business insurance aspects, please do not hesitate to visit us online at Garzor Insurance, or you may want to call us directly at (321) 206-8035.
Sergio Mora
Licensed Insurance Agent
Main Office - Orlando, Fl
Office Number: 321-206-8035