Starting a pest control business, or any business, is an entrepreneur’s dream. The desire to start and own a business may be driven by wanting to be your own boss, filling a gap in the market, having the required skills, or desiring to work a more flexible schedule.
If you plan to start a new pest control business or are managing an existing one, consider what risks you may face and how insurance can protect your business.
Here are some types of insurance coverage that may be applicable:
General Liability
This insurance covers bodily injuries or property damage that may occur. For example, suppose a technician accidentally knocks over a decorative vase while examining the customer’s home. This coverage will help provide repair or replacement costs.
Commercial Auto
Typically, a pest control business uses vehicles to transport equipment and chemicals to jobsites. Commercial Auto insurance provides coverage for vehicles damaged in an accident or stolen.
Professional Liability (Errors and Omissions)
No business or its employees are perfect. Sometimes mistakes are made. Professional Liability insurance provides coverage for claims of negligence, faulty service, or failure to eradicate pests.
Commercial Property
Whether you own or rent office and warehouse space, this insurance coverage protects your business’s physical assets such as equipment, furniture, and the building itself. Covered perils include fire, vandalism, and theft.
Workers’ Compensation
This insurance provides coverage, including medical expenses and lost wages, for technicians or office staff who are injured while in the course of their employment.
Pest control businesses face a variety of challenges. Exposure to hazardous chemicals and dangerous pests can put your employees and customers in harm’s way. That’s why implementing safety procedures is vital to preventing accidents and injuries.
Following these tips will start you on the path to safety:
Inspect the site before beginning work.
Every job is different, so it’s crucial to identify potential hazards before starting the work. Assessments include pest identification as well as structural and environmental hazards.
Encourage proper training and certification.
Properly trained employees will be more efficient and more likely to adhere to safety guidelines. In addition, industry certifications can enhance your staff’s professionalism. And remember, learning is a lifelong journey and refresher courses are necessary.
Use personal protective equipment (PPE).
Using the appropriate PPE is fundamental to protecting workers from injuries and reducing lost time at work. Essential PPE includes coveralls, gloves, goggles, face masks/respirators, and appropriate footwear.
Follow safe-handling procedures and chemical application guidelines.
Following product instructions, ensuring proper ventilation, and storing chemicals correctly are all ways to stay safe.
Maintain equipment.
Faulty equipment can lead to accidents and ineffective treatments. Conducting routine checks and properly calibrating equipment can protect your employees and increase equipment lifespan.
Maintain communication with your customers.
Pre-service instructions, post-service guidelines, and emergency contact information are all important communications that must take place with your customers.
This article is intended for general educational and illustrative purposes only and should not be construed to communicate legal or professional advice. Further, this article is not an offer to sell insurance. Please consult with your licensed insurance agent for specific coverage details and your insurance eligibility. All policies are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations, definitions, and exclusions contained therein.
