Harvest season is one of the busiest and most important times of the year for Iowa farmers. After months of planning, planting, and tending to crops, the focus shifts toward bringing in a successful harvest. While there is plenty to prepare in the fields, it is also a good time to make sure your farm operation is protected. 

From equipment and buildings to liability and unexpected weather events, reviewing your insurance coverage before harvest can help you feel confident heading into one of the busiest seasons on the farm. 

Review Your Equipment Coverage 

For many farmers, equipment is one of the largest investments made in their operation. Combines, tractors, grain carts, and other machinery play a critical role during harvest, making it important to ensure they have the right protection. 

Before harvest begins, take time to review your equipment list and ask yourself: 

• Have you purchased any new equipment this year? 

• Have you made upgrades or improvements to existing machinery? 

• Are your current coverage limits enough to account for rising equipment costs? 

If your operation has changed since your last policy review, your coverage may need to change with it. Keeping your insurance information up to date helps ensure your equipment is properly protected when you need it most. 

Check Your Farm Buildings and Storage Areas 

Farm buildings and storage facilities help protect valuable assets throughout the year. Before harvesting, inspect areas such as barns, sheds, grain storage facilities, and other structures for potential issues. 

Consider checking for: 

• Roof damage or leaks 

• Electrical concerns 

• Fire hazards 

• Structural damage 

• Proper security measures 

Taking care of small repairs now may help prevent larger problems later. It is also a good opportunity to confirm your buildings are accurately reflected in your insurance coverage. 

Prepare for Severe Weather Risks 

Iowa weather can be unpredictable, especially during late summer and fall. Strong winds, hail, heavy rain, and other severe weather events can create challenges during harvest season. 

While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to reduce risk. Keep important documentation organized, maintain updated inventories of equipment and property, and know what steps to take if damage occurs. 

If your farm experiences a loss, documenting damage with photos and contacting your insurance provider as soon as possible can help begin the claims process. 

Review Your Liability Coverage 

Farming involves many moving parts, from employees and family members helping with harvest, to equipment traveling between fields and roads. Liability coverage is an important part of protecting your operation from unexpected accidents. 

As your operation grows and changes, your liability needs may change as well. Consider whether your current policy reflects: 

• Additional employees or seasonal workers 

• Changes in farm activities 

• New equipment or vehicles 

• Increased visitors or customers on your property 

Having the right coverage in place can help protect both your farm and your family. 

Take Time for a Policy Review 

Harvest season is a reminder of how much work goes into running a successful farm operation. Before the busy season begins, schedule time to review your insurance coverage and make sure it still matches your needs. 

A few questions to consider include: 

• Has your farm grown or changed since your last policy review? 

• Have you added new equipment, buildings, or livestock? 

• Are your current coverage limits keeping up with your operation? 

Every farm is different, which is why working with an insurance professional who understands agriculture can help you identify potential gaps and find coverage options that fit your operation.  

Protect Your Harvest Before It Begins 

Harvest season brings long days, hard work, and the reward of a year’s worth of effort. Taking time now to review your insurance coverage can help you focus on what matters most when the combines start rolling. 

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