Hiring a landscaper without insurance: what to know
What can go wrong when hiring a landscaper without insurance, which jobs raise the risk, and what to ask before work starts. Plain advice for RI homes.
Hiring a landscaper without insurance can look like a bargain, and for a quick mow it may never matter. But when something goes wrong, like a rock through a window, a worker hurt on a ladder or a tree limb on the garage, the question of who pays gets uncomfortable fast. This guide explains the risks in plain language, which yard jobs raise them, what to ask any crew before they start in Rhode Island, and how to check without being awkward. It is general information, not legal or insurance advice.
The main risks of an uninsured landscaper
Property damage: mowers throw stones, trucks rut lawns, equipment scrapes siding. Without liability coverage, you may end up dealing with repairs yourself.
Injuries: if a worker is hurt on your property, coverage questions can get complicated. Your own homeowner policy and the crew's coverage both matter. Ask your insurance agent how your policy handles it.
Jobs where insurance matters most
Tree removal and pruning, work on ladders like gutter cleaning, power washing near windows, hardscape with heavy machines, and anything near power lines. For these, ask for proof of insurance every time.
Routine mowing and leaf cleanup carry less risk, but stones and debris still fly.
How to ask about insurance without being awkward
Simply ask: "Can you send a certificate of insurance before you start?" Professional shops get this question all the time and can send it quickly.
Check the name matches the business and the dates are current.
Other questions to ask before hiring
Do they need a license or registration for this work in Rhode Island? Who is on the crew? How do they handle damage? Is the quote written and does it include cleanup?
Price vs protection
An uninsured crew may be cheaper because they skip that cost. For big or risky jobs, the savings can disappear with one accident. Compare quotes with the same scope and the same level of protection.
Steps: hiring a landscaper without insurance
- Ask for a certificate of insurance. Before any work starts.
- Check name and dates. Make sure it matches the business and is current.
- Get the scope in writing. Including cleanup and how damage is handled.
- Check your own policy. Ask your agent what is covered at home.
Yard jobs this guide covers
Tree Removal
Safe takedown of dead, leaning or unwanted trees. Best time to book: late fall and winter, when trees are dormant and crews have more openings.
Gutter Cleaning
Clearing leaves and gunk from gutters and downspouts. Best time to book: March for spring cleanup and early October for fall cleanup.
Power Washing
Washing siding, decks, patios and walkways back to clean. Best time to book: March to May for mulch and planting, or early fall for shrub work.
Retaining Wall
Block or stone walls that hold back slopes and add flat space. Best time to book: late winter, so your project is on the calendar for spring.
Around Rhode Island
Providence: Most Providence yards are compact city lots with mature street trees, tight side yards and on-street parking, so crews favor smaller mowers and hand work.
North Kingstown: North Kingstown has historic Wickford homes, larger lots inland and waterfront properties on the bay.
West Warwick: West Warwick is a compact former mill town along the Pawtuxet River, with mostly small to mid-size lots.
Questions people ask
Is it okay to hire a landscaper without insurance?
For small, low-risk jobs some people do, but for tree work, ladders or heavy equipment, insist on insurance.
What insurance should a landscaper have?
Usually general liability, and workers compensation if they have employees. Ask what they carry.
How do I check a landscaper's insurance?
Ask for a certificate of insurance and check the name and dates.
Does my homeowners insurance cover a landscaper's accident?
It depends on your policy. Ask your agent.
Does My Green Robot check insurance?
No. Ask each shop directly before you hire.