Best Cleaning Business Insurance

Consider common claims risks specific to cleaning firms, including slip-and-fall accidents, client property damage, chemical burns or injuries, water damage, lost or stolen client property and employee injuries from lifting or repetitive motion. Talk with other cleaning business owners about their experiences and consult with insurance agents for a second opinion on your needs.

Ask yourself and agents questions specific to your business, like the following, to understand coverage needs:

• Does my general liability policy cover damage to a client's valuables (e.g., jewelry, electronics, artwork, antiques)?
• Are my cleaners covered while they drive between jobs? (Ask about "auto liability" or "hired and non-owned auto" coverage for employees using personal vehicles)
• Does my policy cover theft claims if a client accuses my staff of stealing?
• If I hire subcontractors, should I name them or have them carry their own liability insurance?
• Am I covered for chemical damage (discoloration, staining, fumes) caused by cleaning products?
• Does my policy include key coverage if client keys are lost or stolen?
• Is there coverage for employee dishonesty and background check requirements?
• What happens if my equipment (vacuums, buffers, carpet cleaners) damages a client's property?

Know what you should expect to pay before you start shopping. Look up typical business insurance costs for cleaning companies of your size (residential vs. commercial, number of employees, annual revenue). Research which companies offer the lowest rates for your specific cleaner company type. This homework gives you negotiating power and helps you spot a good deal when you see one.

Check what real customers say about each insurer, especially regarding cleaning firms. Read reviews on sites like Trustpilot and Google, or browse Reddit threads where cleaning business owners share their claims experience.

Ask the following to identify whether a company is right for your cleaning business:

• How quickly do they process claims for property damage?
• Do they have experience with cleaning-specific claims (broken items, chemical damage)?
• Are there complaints about denied claims for common cleaning incidents?

Before comparing quotes, check each company's coverage options to match your needs. Look for these cleaning-specific options:

• Blanket additional insured endorsement so you can add clients without filing individual certificates
• Employee theft and dishonesty coverage
• Tools and equipment coverage for vacuums, buffers and pressure washers
• Pollution liability if you spill chemicals or dispose of them improperly
• Cyber liability coverage when you store client payment details or access codes

Get business insurance quotes from at least three companies specializing in cleaning businesses and use different methods to get the best deal. Go to the following types of providers for the best deal:

• Independent insurance agents who work with multiple carriers and understand cleaning industry risks
• Online comparison tools like Insureon, CoverWallet or Hiscox for quick quotes
• Direct carrier websites such as The Hartford, Nationwide or Progressive Commercial
• Industry associations like ISSA (International Sanitary Supply Association) or ARCSI (Association of Residential Cleaning Services International) may offer group rates

Independent agents can find prices not listed on company websites. Comparison tools work well for speed. Calling insurers directly often gets you better discounts or custom packages.

Ask about discounts when you get quotes. Cleaning businesses can save money through GPS fleet tracking, written safety programs, OSHA compliance training and employee janitorial bonds. Bundling and paying annually and stacking these discounts can save you up to 40%.

Your cleaning business situation will change, affecting your rates and coverage needs. Growing your client base, adding services like carpet or window cleaning or purchasing specialized equipment may require different protection levels. Schedule an annual insurance review before your renewal date.