For homeowners
What is the difference between licensed and insured for a tree service?
Short answer
A license is permission from a government office to do the work or run the business. Insurance is a policy that pays for damage or injury. A company can have one without the other, so ask for proof of both. Rules differ by state and city.
By Umair Nawaz. Published October 25, 2026. General information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
The longer answer
A license comes from a government office, such as a state agency, a county or a city. It says the business is allowed to operate. Many states do not license tree companies at all, so "no license" does not always mean "illegal".
Insurance is different. It is a policy bought from an insurance company. General liability pays if the crew damages your home, car or fence. Workers' compensation pays if a worker is hurt. A license does not pay for any damage.
So ask for both. Ask what licenses the company holds in your area, and ask for a certificate of insurance. Then call the insurer to confirm the policy is active. Rules differ by state; see /tree-service-license for your state's official sources. This is a short explanation, not legal advice. Check with your state, county and city, and ask your own insurance agent or an attorney about your case.
More answers for homeowners
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- What should I do during a storm if a tree falls on my house?Read the answer
- What should I do first after a storm damages my trees?Read the answer
- What should I do if a branch is touching my house?Read the answer
Hiring a tree service?
Plain guides for homeowners
Safety first: stay away from downed power lines and call the utility; call 911 if anyone is in danger. Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
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