ATCP Meets with Iowa Insurance Division

ATCP Leadership and Iowa Insurance Division Meet to Discuss Ethical Business Practices and Safety

“One of our main goals is helping tree companies profit in an ethical way that does not take advantage of the system… We want to prioritize the safety of the insured, and our crews.”

In a landmark meeting, the ATCP board of directors connected with leaders from the Iowa Insurance Division (IID) to encourage a powerful new relationship. This wasn’t just an introduction; it was a strategy session on how to protect Iowa homeowners, empower ethical tree care professionals, and build a collaborative front against the “bad actors” who harm consumers.

Forging a Collaborative Front

The discussion launched straight to the core of the issue, with IID’s Matt Mortvedt proactively seeking ATCP’s expert insight on identifying the “telltale signs” of “bad actors.” This opened the door for ATCP leadership, including VP Stephan LeBlanc, Government Relations head Derek Norton, Secretary Stefano Devigili, and board members Mark Goodpasture and Steve Tatalovich, to share on-the-ground realities.

Board member Mark Goodpasture laid out the ethical standard: “We push for pictures and accurate documentation to make sure that people are actually using what they’re billing for… We want to prioritize the insured’s safety… while helping tree companies profit in an ethical way that does not take advantage of the system.”

The board also educated the IID on the realities of emergency logistics. ATCP VP Stephan Leblanc explained why ethical pricing can be confused with gouging: “Time is of the essence… One of the big reasons hourly minimums started is that you need to drop what you do to get there FAST, sometimes resulting in canceled work, postponed schedules, or overtime pay.”

An Ally for the Homeowner

Both ATCP and the IID were 100% aligned: the consumer is the top priority. This is where ATCP members shine. “Let’s be honest, how many times does a tree fall on your house? Hopefully never,” said Leblanc. “But if it does, most people don’t know where to start, and that’s what we help with as educated contractors.”

Steve Tatalovich shared a proactive solution for navigating insurance confusion: “I ask the insured if they can do a 3-way call [with the insurer]. This helps coach the homeowner and educate them on how to proceed properly.” This directly contrasts with “bad actors” and demonstrates the value of a true professional.

Homeowner Advisory: Telltale Signs of a “Bad Actor”

In the spirit of this new partnership, ATCP and the IID are united in protecting consumers. Here are the red flags discussed:

• Vague or High-Pressure Contracts: As IID’s Matt Mortvedt emphasized, “Clarity and upfront transparency is extremely important.”
• Lack of Documentation: Unwillingness to provide photos, detailed invoices, or proof of work.
• No Local Presence or Insurance: “Storm chasers” who lack local accountability.
• Advising Against Insurer Contact: Ethical contractors *prefer* to communicate; bad actors avoid it.

A New Era of Partnership

The ATCP’s core message of self-regulation was met with a fantastic and receptive response. “I like to self-regulate,” stated Leblanc. “I don’t want the government to have to do it for us. Next time a storm hits Iowa, regulators can know that ATCP members will be held to a certain standard.”

The IID leadership embraced the partnership. “I appreciate the conversation, and it was educational,” said Mortvedt, offering his direct contact for future collaboration. David Sullivan of the IID affirmed the critical relationship: “The consumer has a contract with the carrier, and you have a contract with the homeowner, so they always need to be a part of the process.” This open, collaborative spirit from the Iowa Insurance Division signals a new era for the industry.

This is what leadership looks like. ATCP is building the bridges that define the future of our industry, ensuring that ethical professionals are championed and regulators have an ally they can trust.

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