It may be possible, but it can be harder and may cost more. Claims history is an important factor insurers look at for snow removal, and past slip and fall claims can reduce the number of insurers willing to quote. A broker who works with snow contractors can approach markets that consider claims history case by case, especially if you can show what has changed.
Why Claims History Matters
Insurers price future risk partly on past results. For snow contractors, slip and fall claims are a major liability exposure, so a history of them is a signal underwriters take seriously. How much it matters depends on how many claims, how large they were, how recent they are, and whether they were paid or closed without payment.
Disclose Everything
Be complete and accurate when you describe your claims history. Leaving out a claim can create serious problems if the insurer discovers it later, including a disputed claim or a cancelled policy. Your broker needs the full picture to present you well.
What Helps Your Case
- Explain what happened. Describe each claim, the site and the circumstances.
- Show what changed. New procedures, better equipment, more salting, dropped high risk sites or revised contracts.
- Documentation. Detailed site logs with times, weather and treatments show underwriters you manage risk. See the snow log template.
- Training. Crew training and programs like Smart About Salt show a documented process.
- Contract terms. Realistic service levels and fair indemnity clauses. See zero tolerance contracts.
- A safety program. See building a snow removal safety program.
Options a Broker May Discuss
Depending on your history, a broker may talk about a higher deductible, different limits, fewer high traffic sites, or insurers that specialize in harder to place risks. Start early. Shopping in September gives a broker more time than a week before your first contract starts.
See how to lower snow plow insurance costs, the slip and fall claims guide and general liability.
General information only, not insurance advice.
Further reading: Insurance Bureau of Canada: Types of business insurance coverage; Insurance Bureau of Canada: Insurance glossary
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do past claims affect my snow removal insurance?
It varies by insurer. Recent claims usually weigh more than older ones. Ask your broker how your history will be viewed.
Should I tell a new insurer about claims that were closed without payment?
Disclose your full claims history when asked. Your broker can explain how closed claims are viewed.
Can I be refused snow removal insurance because of claims?
Some insurers may decline, which is why working with a broker who knows several snow markets can help.
Related Pages
- Slip and fall liability
- Slip and fall claims guide
- How to lower snow plow insurance costs
- Site logs and documentation