Public liability insurance is not legally required for arborists in New Zealand, which means coverage is not guaranteed as standard. Some arborists carry it as a matter of professionalism, while others — particularly sole traders or unlicensed operators — may have no insurance at all. Knowing what to ask before work begins can save you from significant financial and legal headaches.
Why Insurance Matters for Tree Work
Tree work is one of the higher-risk trades in New Zealand. Falling branches, chainsaw use at height, and proximity to buildings, fences, power lines, and parked vehicles all create real potential for property damage or personal injury. If an uninsured arborist damages your roof, your neighbour's fence, or injures a bystander, you as the property owner could be left to cover the costs.
Public liability insurance protects against claims for property damage or bodily injury caused to third parties during the course of work. Without it, any claim would need to be pursued directly against the arborist — which can be difficult and costly if they are a small operator.
Is Insurance a Legal Requirement in NZ?
Currently, there is no specific legislation in New Zealand that compels arborists to hold public liability insurance. Unlike licensed trades such as electrical or plumbing work — which are regulated by bodies like the Electrical Workers Registration Board and the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board — arboriculture is an unregulated trade. Anyone can legally call themselves an arborist and offer tree services without formal qualifications or insurance.
This makes it especially important for homeowners to do their own due diligence.
What Reputable Arborists Typically Carry
Well-established, professional arborists in NZ will generally hold:
- Public liability insurance — typically $1 million to $5 million or more in coverage (confirm the amount with the arborist directly)
- Employer's liability / ACC levies — covering their workers on site
- Equipment insurance — covering their own machinery and tools
Some may also carry professional indemnity insurance, which covers advice-related claims such as incorrect tree assessments.
Always ask for a certificate of currency — a document from the insurer confirming the policy is active. A reputable arborist will have no hesitation providing this.
How to Check an Arborist's Credentials
Before signing any agreement, ask the following:
- Do you hold current public liability insurance, and can you provide a certificate of currency?
- What is the coverage amount?
- Are your workers covered under your policy or do they hold their own?
- Are you a member of a professional body such as the New Zealand Arboricultural Association (NZAA)?
NZAA membership is a useful indicator of professionalism. The association encourages members to maintain appropriate insurance and adhere to industry standards. Similarly, Arboriculture New Zealand (ArborNZ) represents industry professionals and promotes best practice.
WorkSafe NZ sets health and safety obligations for tree work under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. Any arborist working on your property has a duty to manage risks to workers and bystanders — insurance is part of responsible risk management.
Risks of Hiring an Uninsured Arborist
Hiring an uninsured operator might seem like a cost saving upfront, but the risks include:
| Risk | Potential consequence |
|---|---|
| Damage to your property | You may need to fund repairs yourself |
| Damage to a neighbour's property | You could face a civil claim |
| Injury to a worker on your site | Liability may fall on you as the property owner |
| Substandard tree work | No recourse if advice or pruning causes tree failure |
Under NZ law, a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) — which can include a homeowner who engages contractors — has certain duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act. If you knowingly hire someone without proper safety practices, you may share some responsibility. Check WorkSafe NZ for guidance on your obligations as a homeowner engaging contractors.
Tree Work Near Power Lines
If trees are near overhead power lines, additional rules apply. In most cases, only approved line-clearance arborists authorised by the local lines company can work within certain distances of live conductors. This is a safety requirement, not just best practice. Always check with your local lines company before any work near power lines begins.
Building Consent and Tree Removal
Some tree removal in NZ may require a resource consent from your local council, particularly for protected or notable trees, or trees in certain zones. This is separate from insurance but worth confirming with your council before work starts. MBIE Building Performance provides general guidance on consenting, though tree-specific rules sit under the Resource Management Act and vary by district plan.
When to Call a Professional
Always hire a qualified, insured arborist for:
- Any work at height or using a chainsaw
- Trees near buildings, fences, or power lines
- Large tree removal or significant pruning
- Tree health assessments and reports for council or insurance purposes
You can find qualified local arborists on tradedirectory.co.nz — always ask for proof of insurance before work begins.
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