Not automatically. A landscaping policy covers the operations described on it. If snow removal is not declared, or if the policy has a snow and ice exclusion, it may not respond to a winter claim. Landscapers adding snow work should tell their broker and confirm in writing that plowing, salting and any other winter services are covered.
Why Snow Work Is Treated Differently
Summer landscaping and winter snow removal carry different risks. Snow work means slip and fall exposure on sites used by the public, night work, heavy equipment in poor visibility and salt application. Some insurers that write landscaping may not write snow removal at all, and some policies add exclusions for snow and ice.
What to Check on Your Policy
- Description of operations. Does it list snow plowing, salting, sidewalk clearing and any hauling?
- Exclusions. Is there any snow and ice exclusion or limitation?
- Revenue. Is your snow revenue included in the figures the policy is based on?
- Vehicles and equipment. Are blades, spreaders and plow trucks declared on your auto and equipment policies?
- Contracts. Do your snow clients need different limits or additional insured wording than your landscaping clients?
A Note on Workers Compensation
Workers compensation boards classify work differently from insurers. For example, WCB-Alberta's Landscaping industry says "clearing sidewalks and parking lots of snow in winter months is part of this industry," while in Ontario, driveway and parking lot snow plowing and landscaping are generally classified under WSIB Class M, though WSIB decides each classification based on reported activities. That is about workers compensation only, not your liability policy. See workers compensation for snow removal.
Next Steps
Read landscapers offering snow removal, salting and sanding insurance and what snow plow insurance covers. A broker who writes both landscaping and snow can review your policy before the first storm.
General information only, not insurance advice. Coverage depends on policy wording.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate policy for snow removal if I am a landscaper?
Not necessarily. Some insurers can cover both on one policy if snow work is declared. Others do not write snow removal. A broker can confirm.
What happens if I do snow work that is not on my policy?
A claim from undeclared operations may be disputed. Tell your broker about all services before you start.
Does salting need to be declared separately?
Salting is its own exposure and should be disclosed. See salting and sanding insurance.