Insurance Costs for Landscaping Businesses: What to Expect in 2026

How much is landscaping business insurance in Texas? Here’s what to expect in 2026 and what underwriters consider before quoting.

Insurance Costs for Landscaping Businesses: What to Expect in 2026

If you run a landscaping business in Texas, understanding your insurance costs for 2026 is more important than ever. Whether you’re renewing a policy or getting insured for the first time, it helps to know what underwriters look for and how pricing is determined.

Insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Before any agent can quote you accurately, they’ll ask detailed questions about your operations, team, and revenue. This guide breaks down what you can expect when budgeting for insurance this year.

What Do Insurance Underwriters Look At?

Insurance underwriters assess risk before issuing a policy or setting your rate. Here are the key factors they’ll evaluate:

1. Estimated Annual Revenue

Your projected revenue for 2026 directly impacts your premium. Higher revenue often means more job sites, equipment in use, and customer exposure—which increases risk.

Be ready to provide an honest estimate. Underreporting can cause issues later during audits or claims.

2. Payroll and Number of Employees

Especially for workers comp, underwriters want to know how many people you employ and what tasks they perform (e.g., mowing, hardscaping, tree work).

Jobs involving tree trimming or heavy machinery may come with higher premiums.

3. Types of Services Offered

Not all landscaping work carries the same risk. A lawn mowing business is rated differently than one that does:

• Retaining walls and hardscaping
• Tree removal
• Irrigation installation

Be specific when describing your scope of work.

4. Equipment Owned or Used

List out any large equipment like:

• Zero-turn mowers
• Trailers
• Mini-excavators

Some tools may require separate inland marine coverage, especially if transported between job sites.

5. Vehicles and Driving Records

If your employees drive company trucks, underwriters will want to know:

• How many vehicles you own
• Who drives them
• Driving history (accidents, violations, etc.)

Clean records can help reduce your commercial auto rates.

6. Claims History

Previous claims—especially liability or auto-related—can increase premiums. If you’ve had recent losses, be prepared to explain what changes you’ve made to reduce future risk.

7. Location and Service Radius

Do you operate in a metro area like DFW or Houston? Or cover rural counties across Texas? More driving and higher traffic zones may increase auto and liability risk.

Why You Need a Quote (Not Just a Ballpark)

Online ballpark estimates are helpful, but you won’t get an accurate premium without going through a quoting process. This includes submitting:

• Business name and EIN
• Estimated gross revenue for 2026
• Employee details and payroll estimate
• Description of services
• List of equipment and vehicles
• Previous insurance info and claims history

The more accurate and detailed you are, the better your quote will reflect your real risk.

How to Lower Your Landscaping Insurance Costs

Here are a few smart ways to reduce your premiums:

• Bundle policies (general liability + auto + property)
• Raise deductibles if you can afford to pay more out of pocket
• Maintain clean driving records for all drivers
• Document safety protocols to prevent claims
• Work with a local agent who understands the landscaping industry

Get Covered the Right Way in 2026

As your landscaping business grows, your insurance needs grow too. Don’t risk being underinsured or overpaying.

Need help getting a competitive quote? Contact McKnight Insurance to speak with a local agent who understands the Texas landscaping industry inside and out. We’ll help you protect your business while keeping costs in check.