Snow plowing is an important service during Massachusetts winters. With heavy snowfall, icy conditions, and unpredictable storms, many businesses and individuals rely on snow removal contractors to keep roads, driveways, and parking lots safe. If you run a snow plowing business or operate plows seasonally, having the right insurance can be essential. But what does snow plowing insurance typically cover in Massachusetts, and why might it be important for your business?
At Paul T. Murphy Insurance, we help snow plow operators understand their options and select policies that fit their specific needs. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common questions about snow plowing insurance in Massachusetts.
Snow plowing insurance is generally a collection of policies designed to help protect snow removal contractors from potential risks. Unlike a single, stand-alone policy, snow plowing insurance often combines coverages that address different exposures a snow plow operator might face.
For instance, if you plow as part of a landscaping business, you may need to add snow plowing coverage to your existing business insurance. If plowing is your primary business, you may want a more customized policy tailored to winter operations.
The goal is typically to provide a financial safety net if accidents, property damage, or liability issues arise while performing snow removal services.
Massachusetts winters can create hazardous conditions that increase risks for both snow plow operators and their clients. A single icy driveway, parking lot, or road could lead to accidents that result in claims.
Some of the most common concerns include:
Having insurance in place may help snow plow contractors manage these exposures while meeting contract requirements. Many Massachusetts property owners and municipalities require proof of insurance before hiring plow operators.
One of the most important aspects of snow plowing insurance is liability protection. Snow removal involves operating heavy equipment, working in slippery conditions, and entering private and commercial properties. These activities can create situations where third parties claim property damage or bodily injury.
General liability insurance, often included in snow plowing coverage, may help provide protection if someone alleges harm caused by your business operations. This could involve damage to a client’s property, such as hitting a fence or landscaping feature, or slip-and-fall claims after services have been completed.
Since snow plow operators use trucks and vehicles equipped with plows, commercial auto insurance is typically an important part of snow plowing coverage. Massachusetts law requires certain auto insurance minimums, and vehicles used for commercial purposes often need broader protection than personal policies provide.
Commercial auto coverage may extend to:
It’s worth noting that personal auto policies often exclude snow plowing activities, so relying solely on a personal policy might leave gaps in coverage.
Snow plowing businesses depend on specialized equipment, from plow blades and salt spreaders to snow blowers and skid steers. Replacing or repairing this equipment after damage or theft can be expensive.
Snow plowing insurance may include options for insuring equipment. Depending on the policy, this might apply to permanently attached plow blades as well as portable tools transported to job sites. Some policies may offer inland marine insurance coverage, which protects equipment while in transit or at a temporary location.
If your snow removal business employs workers, you may need workers’ compensation insurance. Massachusetts law requires most businesses with employees to carry workers’ compensation, which may provide coverage for medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured while working.
For snow plowing operations, the risk of slips, falls, or accidents while operating heavy equipment can be significant. Having workers’ compensation coverage may help both your employees and your business in the event of a workplace injury.
Many property owners, municipalities, and commercial clients in Massachusetts require proof of insurance before hiring a snow plow contractor. These requirements are often included in contracts to help protect clients from liability if accidents occur during snow removal.
For example, a shopping center hiring a snow plow company to clear its parking lot might request certificates of insurance showing general liability and commercial auto coverage. Meeting these requirements may be necessary to secure and maintain contracts.
Not necessarily. The type and level of insurance needed can vary based on the size of the business, the scope of work, and the clients being served. A part-time snow plow operator clearing a few residential driveways might have very different needs from a contractor handling large commercial parking lots or municipal roads.
Factors that may affect coverage include:
Working with an experienced Massachusetts insurance agency like Paul T. Murphy Insurance can help ensure your coverage matches your operations.
Finding the right insurance starts with evaluating the unique risks your snow plowing business faces. From liability concerns to equipment protection, it’s important to consider how each potential exposure could impact your operations.
At Paul T. Murphy Insurance, we work with snow plow contractors throughout Massachusetts to review options and customize coverage. Whether you are an independent operator or manage a larger snow removal company, our team can help guide you toward policies that fit your business.
Paul T. Murphy Insurance is here to help Massachusetts snow plow operators explore their options and secure the coverage they need. If you operate a snow plowing business and want to learn more, contact us today to discuss how we can assist with your insurance needs.