Pesticide Use and Environmental Liability Risks for Landscaping Companies

Pesticide and weed control services are a common part of landscaping operations in Georgia. Whether you are applying weed killer, herbicides, or other chemical treatments, these products introduce a unique set of risks that many business owners underestimate.

One of the most common and costly scenarios involves chemical overspray. If a weed killer drifts into a neighboring property or a client’s fish pond and kills fish or damages vegetation, the resulting cleanup and property damage claims can add up quickly. Situations like this can easily lead to thousands of dollars in losses.

In Georgia, landscapers who apply pesticides are required to hold a Category 4 license. This requirement is not just a legal formality. It confirms that the applicator has been trained in chemical handling and safety procedures. However, licensing alone does not guarantee that your insurance coverage will respond if something goes wrong.

Many general liability policies exclude pollution-related losses, which often includes pesticide and chemical applications. That means even if you are properly licensed, your standard policy may not cover claims related to overspray, contamination, or environmental damage.

To protect your business, it is important to review your insurance carefully. Some companies need specific endorsements added to their general liability policy, while others may require separate environmental or pollution liability coverage. The right solution depends on the scope of your services and how frequently chemicals are used.

Taking a few minutes to review your policy now can prevent a major financial setback later. Ensuring that your coverage aligns with your operations helps protect your business, your reputation, and your long-term stability.

If you are unsure whether your current policy covers pesticide use or environmental liability, fill out the form below to schedule a quick review with our team at Craddock Insurance. We are happy to help you confirm that the proper protections are in place before an accident occurs.