Running a house cleaning business means stepping into people’s homes, handling their belongings, and earning their trust. Meanwhile, you’re managing a team, supplies, and a packed schedule. It’s personal, physical work, and the risks are real. A dropped bottle of cleaner, a broken heirloom, or an employee injury can quickly turn into a significant financial setback.
If you own or operate a cleaning business (or you’re in the startup stages), having the right house cleaning business insurance helps you manage those risks. But what exactly does it cover, and why is industry-specific insurance better than a one-size-fits-all policy?
What Risks Do Cleaning Businesses Face?
Cleaning homes may seem like a low-risk endeavor to outsiders, but professionals know otherwise. Working in clients’ homes introduces a unique set of liability exposures.
- Accidental property damage: Even small mistakes, such as knocking over a valuable piece of art, can cost thousands.
- Bodily injury: A client who trips over equipment left out during a service could sue for medical expenses.
- Chemical exposure: Employees who use potent cleaning agents may experience respiratory issues or skin irritation. They are also prone to injuries due to the nature of their work, which often involves repetitive motions, slippery floors, heavy lifting, and other hazards.
- Employee dishonesty: If a client accuses a cleaner of theft, even if untrue, it can damage your reputation and trigger legal fees.
Having the right insurance helps you mitigate risk exposures and maintain credibility with your clients — especially when they expect proof of coverage before hiring or want assurance they won’t be liable if something goes wrong.
Why Standard Business Insurance May Not Be Enough
Many new cleaning business owners start with basic general liability (GL) coverage, assuming it will cover all the essentials. But generic policies often fall short.
For instance, standard liability insurance may not cover employee dishonesty or client property damage that occurs during cleaning. Nor does it typically cover the equipment you transport from job to job — such as vacuums, steamers, and specialty tools — if they’re stolen or damaged offsite.
Specialized insurance for cleaning businesses often includes endorsements or policy types designed to fill these gaps. From bonding coverage that builds trust with clients to tailored limits on equipment loss, the right policy reflects the realities of your work.
What Types of Coverage Should Cleaning Businesses Carry?
While no two house cleaning businesses are identical, most benefit from a combination of core coverages:
- GL insurance: GL covers third-party bodily injury and property damage — foundational protection for any cleaning operation.
- Workers’ compensation insurance: Required in most states, workers’ comp protects your business if an employee is injured while working.
- Janitorial bonds: Also known as employee dishonesty bonds, these offer protection if a worker is accused of theft.
- Inland marine insurance: This coverage safeguards tools and equipment as they move between jobsites — a must if your team carries gear in their vehicles.
- Commercial auto insurance: If you or your employees drive for work, even occasionally, personal auto policies likely won’t provide adequate coverage.
You may not need every policy, but skipping the wrong one can leave you vulnerable. An experienced insurance partner can help match your coverage to your operations, services, and risk tolerance.
Protecting Your Business and Reputation
From solo operators to growing franchises, every house cleaning business faces unique risks. A generic policy can’t account for the day-to-day realities of your work, but tailored insurance for a house cleaning business can.
Whether you’re worried about damaging a client’s property or ensuring your employees are covered in case of injury, the right insurance gives you confidence to grow.
Talk to a cleaning insurance specialist at Moody Clean Insurance today, and take the first step toward protecting the business you’ve worked so hard to build.
About Moody Clean Insurance
Helping one cleaning business started it all. Two decades later, Moody is one of the largest insurance providers to both independent and franchise cleaning businesses throughout the country. Put decades of experience to work for your cleaning operations. Regardless of size or cleaning specialty, we can help your cleaning business chart a strategic, economical path for your risk management and insurance. Relationships all start with a first conversation. Reach out and let’s schedule a time to talk about protecting and growing your cleaning business.
