Running a snow removal business can be a profitable endeavor, but it comes with considerable risk as plow equipment is expensive and drivers regularly work in non-ideal conditions. Snow plowing insurance helps snow removal businesses in Massachusetts financially protect themselves from many of the risks they face.
Snow plowing insurance is a specialized form of commercial insurance that’s designed to meet the unique needs of snow removal businesses. Policies are usually underwritten as package policies, which means they come with several coverages that work together to provide robust protection.
Most businesses that provide snow removal services in Massachusetts ought to have snow plow insurance, for few businesses are free of risk and this is generally the best way to insure these types of businesses. Some specific examples of businesses that may need this type of policy include:
When plow owners plow driveways and shovel sidewalks for neighbors, friends and family members without charging, they should talk to a trusted independent agent to see what their coverage vulnerabilities may be.
Should drivers charge anyone for snow removal services, however, the service is normally regarded as commercial activity and a commercial snow plow policy is likely necessary. This is true even if the paying customers are close neighbors, friends or family members.
Drivers who are unsure whether their plowing activity warrants a commercial snow plow policy should speak with an insurance agent who specializes in this type of coverage. A specialized agent will be familiar with the nuanced differences between personal auto policies and commercial snow plow policies, and they can direct drivers toward the kind of policy that’s most suitable for their situation.
There are many different coverages that snow plow policies may offer, and companies can usually select the coverages that are right for their situation. Some of the more frequently selected coverages include:
The insurance needs of snow removal companies typically change in warmer months when there’s no snow to plow. They usually don’t need all of the same coverages that are appropriate when drivers are plowing driveways and parking lots.
Completely canceling a policy, however, can leave a business exposed to risk if their equipment is damaged. In some situations, canceling coverage can also create a gap in protection that may lead to higher insurance premiums in the future.
Instead of completely canceling a policy, companies should work with a knowledgeable agent to adjust their insurance coverages before and after each winter season. An agent can help companies alter their coverages for the warmer months so that their premiums are lower but they still have the protections that should be in place. Before the first snowfall, the agent can also help readjust coverages for the next plowing season.
If you have a snow removal company that needs insurance, contact the independent insurance agents at Keefe Insurance. Our agents have worked with many plowing companies in Massachusetts, and they have the expertise necessary to get your company a robust snow plowing insurance policy.
