Risky Business: Essential Insurance Strategies Every Business Needs to Know

On this episode of Roots of Success, Chris Psencik digs into the changing landscape of insurance for green industry businesses with special guests Chase Campbell and Cal Fallaize from Sage Insurance and Risk Advisors. The group unpacks how auto insurance has become a massive pain point, often making up 70% of insurance premiums. Additionally hear why old settlements are a thing of the past, and how business owners can safeguard their assets amid rising legal risks. Featuring real-world stories, actionable tips, and the inside scoop on managing insurance modification ratings, this episode sheds light on navigating insurance trends, protecting your business, and driving profitability in 2026 and beyond. If you're wrestling with your P&L and unsure about your coverage, don't miss this episode!  THE BIG IDEA:   Insurance is a line item that must be actively managed.  KEY MOMENTS:  [03:49] Solving Insurance Challenges in Landscaping [06:44] Insurance Costs Scale with Growth [10:48] Litigation Costs Skyrocketing [14:40] "Key Metrics for Project Success" [19:03] Mod Analysis for Performance Insight [20:57] "Portfolio Adjustments for Success" [24:10] Subcontractor Insurance Considerations [29:10] Proactive Landscape Business Renewal Tips [32:59] "GPS, Cameras, and Loyalty" [34:49] "Insurance is Like a Parachute" [37:11] "Managing Costs Through Right Questions"  QUESTIONS WE ANSWER  What factors are contributing to the rapidly increasing costs of auto insurance for landscape companies?  How can businesses ensure their insurance coverage grows appropriately with their revenue and operational changes?  What are the potential risks of maintaining a stale relationship with your agency or insurance provider?  Why is it important to implement a return-to-work program for injured employees within the landscape industry?  How can mod ratings affect a company's ability to secure commercial contracts, and what steps can be taken to improve them?  What are the main challenges and precautions when working with subcontractors in landscaping projects?  Which insurance metrics and safety practices should landscape business owners regularly monitor to safeguard their fleet and assets?  Why are legacy rates so important in the current insurance market, and what strategies help protect them?  How does shopping out insurance every year or every other year impact your company's relationship with carriers and possible rates?  What are some overlooked policy exclusions or errors that can have major financial impacts, and how can they be detected?