Tree surgeons and forestry contractors have a new source of insurance after Illium Syndicate 4040 launched a niche liability scheme for the professions.

Illium is offering employers' liability and public liability cover under the scheme and said it would look at risks from companies of all sizes.

Access to rehabilitation treatment for injured employees is provided as part of the standard cover, it said.

The syndicate said it was asked to consider the scheme by Trust Insurance Services via Lloyd's broker Carroll & Partners.

Illium general liability underwriter Matt Hunt said: “We felt there was an opportunity to facilitate an approach to the industry rather than wait for risks to come in on an ad-hoc basis.

“Trust have an excellent knowledge of this field via their existing contacts, which include contractors, associations and manufacturers of related equipment, and we were more than happy to work with them after they presented to us.

“They will review each submission to ensure we only receive enquiries of a professional nature. Any prospective client must demonstrate adequate training and qualifications for each of their employees.”

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