Agricultural support services insurance

Protect businesses that support farms with Canadian agricultural support services insurance. See industry trends, risks, FAQs, and insurance products

For more on this part of the insurance industry:
1. visit our farm insurance page for a look at all products in this sector
2. or focus in on all of the agricultural support services insurance products available on IB Markets!

What is agricultural support services insurance? 

Agricultural support services insurance secures people and organizations that provide essential services to farmers from financial risks. Examples of these services include: 

  • farm consulting 
  • equipment and machinery services 
  • agtech and data analytics 
  • storage and logistics 
  • veterinary and animal health services 
  • pest and weed control 

Since these services operate in remote regions and support cold-climate farming innovations, insurance helps them manage threats and continue serving Canada’s agriculture industry. 

When agricultural support services insurance might be needed 

A seed supplier provides mislabeled seeds to farmers which leads to crop failure and financial losses. The farmers file legal claims and blame the supplier for lost income. 

The firm uses errors & omissions coverage to cover legal costs and settlements. Without this agricultural support services insurance, they could have faced millions in damages and possible bankruptcy. 

Agricultural support services insurance: industry trends and emerging risks 

Service providers are using precision farming tools, data analytics, and automation to improve efficiency. Insurance now covers more hazards, including wildfire damage for hay and timothy hay. 

The government is also investing in infrastructure and market expansion. These trends introduce new challenges in the agricultural support services insurance sector, such as: 

  • changing regulations: insurers and service providers must adjust to evolving industry rules 

  • ESG expectations: companies must adopt sustainable practices and show social responsibility 

  • rising insurance claims: claims increased in 2024 and are expected to keep growing 

Outdated data and poor risk assessments can lead to financial losses for service providers. Brokers should advise clients to update data systems and improve risk management strategies.

Agricultural support services insurance FAQs 

Who provides crop insurance in Canada? 

Crop insurance in Canada is available through government programs and private insurers. Coverage depends on crop type, location, and insurance level chosen. 

Which government programs offer crop insurance? 

Below are some government initiatives that provide this coverage: 

  1. AgriInsurance Program 
  2. Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) 
  3. Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) 

Are private insurers an option for crop coverage? 

Yes, private insurers offer customized policies beyond government plans. Companies like BFL CANADA provide tailored crop insurance for different farm operations. 

What percentage does crop insurance pay? 

Many farmers choose coverage levels of around 70 to 80 percent of their average yield or revenue. Coverage varies but typically pays a percentage of a farm’s average yield or revenue. 

Who needs agricultural support services insurance coverage? 

This insurance covers financial losses from property damage, lawsuits, and service disruptions. Businesses that need this coverage: 

  • equipment repair services 
  • agricultural consultants 
  • seed and fertilizer suppliers 
  • irrigation system installers 
  • pest control companies 
  • farm research labs 
  • agricultural data analytics firms 

Agricultural support services insurance helps keep service providers in business if unexpected events cause damage or legal claims. 

What is the most profitable agricultural business in Canada? 

In Canada, oilseed and grain farming make the most money. High export demand and good crop prices drive profits. Favorable weather also helps farms grow high-yield crops.  

Agricultural support firms often cater to these profitable sectors. Make sure that their services are protected by insurance against financial threats. 

How much does AgriStability cost? 

AgriStability's program fee is $315 for every $100,000 of reference margin, plus a $55 administrative fee. The annual fee is based on a percentage of a farm’s reference margin, plus an administrative fee. 

What is the compensation rate for AgriStability? 

In recent years, the program covered up to 80 percent of shortfalls when income fell below 70 percent of historical margins.  

Program details are subject to change. It is important to check for the most current information. 

What are common agricultural support services insurance coverage options? 

Coverage options vary, but most policies include: 

  • property insurance: covers damage to offices, warehouses, and farm equipment suppliers from hazards 

  • general liability insurance: safeguards against legal claims if a service causes injury or property damage 

  • professional liability insurance: covers mistakes made by agricultural consultants, farm advisors, or research labs that lead to financial loss 

  • commercial auto insurance: protects vehicles used for equipment delivery, crop consulting, or field services 

  • business interruption insurance: covers lost income if operations stop due to fire, extreme weather, or equipment failure 

Due to Canada’s climate and geography, agricultural support services insurance must be personalized to each client’s specific risks and operations. 

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