Why All Certificates of Insurance (COIs) Are Not the Same
When hiring a tree service, many homeowners know to ask, "Are you insured?" If the answer is yes, they often feel comfortable moving forward.
But here's what many people don't realize:
Not all Certificates of Insurance (COIs) provide the same protection.
A COI is simply proof that an insurance policy exists. It does not automatically mean you're protected if something goes wrong. The details behind that certificate matter—and they can make a significant difference if your property is damaged or someone is injured during the job.
What Should You Look For?
General Liability Insurance
This helps cover accidental damage to your home, garage, fence, driveway, landscaping, or neighboring property while tree work is being performed.
However, policy limits vary. One company may carry minimal coverage while another carries much higher limits designed for large tree removals and complex jobs.
Workers' Compensation Insurance
Tree work is one of the most hazardous professions in the country.
If a company doesn't carry legitimate workers' compensation insurance, you could face unexpected complications if a worker is injured on your property. Asking to see proof of current workers' compensation coverage is always a smart step.
Coverage That Matches the Work
Removing a small ornamental tree is very different from removing a 100-foot oak over a home using cranes and specialized rigging.
Insurance should match the level of risk involved. Companies performing large removals should carry coverage appropriate for that type of work—not just the minimum required to stay in business.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions
A reputable tree service should be willing to provide a current Certificate of Insurance and explain what it covers.
You can also ask:
Is the insurance current?
Is workers' compensation included?
What are the liability coverage limits?
Are all crew members covered?
Does the coverage apply to the type of work being performed?
Professional companies understand these questions and are happy to answer them.
Experience Matters Too
Insurance is only one part of choosing the right tree service.
Proper training, modern equipment, certified arborists, safe work practices, and years of experience all help reduce the chance that you'll ever need to rely on an insurance policy in the first place.
Why Sawvell Tree Service Takes Insurance Seriously
At Sawvell Tree Service, we believe homeowners deserve complete confidence before any work begins. We maintain appropriate insurance coverage for the work we perform and are happy to provide a current Certificate of Insurance upon request.
Our goal is simple: perform every job safely, professionally, and with the protection our customers deserve.
When comparing estimates, don't just compare prices. Compare experience, safety practices, and insurance coverage. They may not all look the same—and neither do the companies behind them.
