California pest control companies are entering 2026 in one of the toughest insurance markets in years. Rising claim costs, stricter regulations, and reduced carrier participation in the state have created higher premiums for core lines like General Liability, Commercial Auto, and Umbrella/Excess Liability. 
For California PCOs—from general pest to termite, fumigation, and specialty services—understanding the current market and maintaining the right coverages is essential for protecting your business.
Key Insurance Coverages California Pest Control Operators Need
General Liability Insurance
A must-have in California’s highly regulated pest control industry. Protects against chemical exposure claims, property damage, treatment errors, and WDO inspection issues.
Commercial Auto Insurance
The most challenging and expensive coverage line in California due to severe injury claims, rising repair costs, and urban driving exposures from the Bay Area to Los Angeles.
Workers’ Compensation
California technicians face unique hazards: heat illness, ladder work, crawlspaces, and chemical handling. WC remains necessary to protect both employees and employers.
Professional Liability / E&O
Essential for California termite and WDO inspections, real estate transactions, fumigation oversight, and structural pest evaluations.
Pollution Liability
More California HOAs, food facilities, and commercial properties now require this coverage for pesticide application, overspray, and environmental exposure.
Property Insurance
Protects equipment, chemicals, storage facilities, and office locations—especially important given California’s wildfire exposure and rising replacement costs.
Umbrella / Excess Liability
California has seen rising verdicts and settlements. Extra protection above GL, Auto, and WC is increasingly important for sustainable risk management.
How BRM Supports California Pest Control Operators
Bone Robertson & McBride Inc. has specialized in the California pest control industry for over 50 years. Our long-standing relationships with the carriers that still write PCO business in California—combined with deep knowledge of WDO regulations, DPR requirements, and fumigation-specific exposures—allow us to:
- Understand the unique insurance challenges California operators face
- Navigate carrier restrictions and changing appetites
- Identify which markets offer competitive pricing for your specific operations
- Present your business clearly and accurately to underwriters to help control premium impact
Even in a rising-cost environment, BRM helps California pest operators obtain the best pricing and coverage combinations available, backed by industry expertise rather than sales pressure.
Looking Ahead to 2026
California’s insurance market will likely remain tight, but pest control businesses that work with a brokerage deeply rooted in their industry are far better positioned to manage rising costs and maintain strong coverage.
As the long-standing insurance partner to California pest control operators, BRM understands the state’s regulatory environment, carrier landscape, and operational risks better than anyone. Our experience and carrier relationships allow us to guide California PCOs to the strongest and most competitively priced options available—supporting your business with expertise you simply won’t find elsewhere.
Learn More
Pest control businesses face many risks, and having the right insurance coverage is key to long-term success. Contact Bone Robertson & McBride Inc to learn about your options and get a personalized quote.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.