Whether you own a single MEWP or manage a fleet of access platforms, Cherry Picker Insurance is essential to protect your business from the high risks associated with working at height. This guide breaks down what’s typically included in a cherry picker policy, who needs it, and how to make sure you’re properly covered.

What Is Cherry Picker Insurance?

Cherry Picker Insurance is a specialist policy that covers mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), including boom lifts, scissor lifts, and vehicle-mounted platforms. These machines are used across construction, utilities, tree surgery, signage, cleaning, and many other high-access jobs.

A cherry picker insurance policy can protect you from:

• Accidental damage to the machine

• Theft or vandalism (on-site or in storage)

• Fire, flood or extreme weather damage

• Road traffic incidents (if used on public roads)

• Public liability claims caused by the machine

Whether you own the cherry picker or hire it in, having the right policy in place can save you thousands in repair or replacement costs.

Key Covers Included in Cherry Picker Insurance

Here are the main components of a typical cherry picker policy:

1. Physical Damage Cover

This pays to repair or replace your cherry picker if it’s damaged due to an accident, misuse, or mechanical failure. For example, if the lift topples or hits a structure while in use, this cover steps in.

2. Theft and Vandalism

Access platforms are often left on unsecured sites overnight and can be a target for thieves. Insurance will pay out if your cherry picker is stolen or maliciously damaged.

3. Hired-In Plant Cover

If you rent your cherry picker under CPA or similar terms, you’re liable for it while it’s in your care. Hired-in plant cover protects you against repair costs, continuing hire charges, and replacement costs.

4. Road Risks Cover

If your cherry picker is mounted to a van or lorry chassis and driven on public roads, you are legally required to have road risk insurance. This can be added to your cherry picker policy.

5. Public Liability Insurance

If the cherry picker causes injury or property damage, for example, falling equipment injures a passer-by, liability cover protects you from costly claims and legal fees. This is vital for work in public spaces.

Do You Really Need It?

If you use a cherry picker for business purposes, even occasionally, then yes, insurance is highly recommended. Without it, you could be left footing the bill for:

• A stolen £40,000 MEWP

• A personal injury claim caused by equipment failure

• Ongoing hire charges after damage

• A write-off following a road accident

Whether you operate a tree surgery business or a facilities maintenance firm, the risks are too high to go uninsured.

Tailoring Your Cover

Not all cherry picker users are the same and neither are policies. You should tailor your cover based on:

• Whether the machine is owned or hired

• Whether it’s self-propelled, trailer-mounted or vehicle-mounted

• How frequently and where it’s used

• If it travels on public highways

• Whether you need any driver cover or tool insurance

An experienced broker can customise your cherry picker insurance around these factors, ensuring you only pay for what you need.

Final Thoughts

Working at height brings serious safety and liability risks and cherry pickers are high-value machines. Having the right insurance gives you peace of mind, protects your investment, and ensures you stay compliant with contracts and site requirements.