Feeling a bit lost when it comes to finding the best cleaning business insurance? With so many options out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by what each insurance company offers.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here’s everything you need to know about the best cleaning business insurance and bonding options right now so you can choose the best coverage to fit your business needs!
Top 5 Cleaning Business Insurance and Bonding Companies
Let’s take a look at a few standout cleaning insurance providers and see what they do well (and where they might fall short).
Insurance Canopy
Insurance Canopy’s cleaning insurance blends the best of both worlds: the competence of a traditional insurance brokerage and the convenience of a modern digital insurance company. And it’s easy — you can apply, get an instant quote, and purchase your policy online in a matter of minutes.
But unlike many of our competitors, we don’t try to fit your business into a one-size-fits-all policy. Instead, we created coverages and policies tailored to the needs of cleaning businesses like yours, from general liability to equipment coverage, cyber liability, workers comp, and more.
Pros:
- Specialized coverage: Insurance and bonding designed specifically for cleaning companies, so you get the coverage that fits your business needs, risks, and industry perfectly. Our coverage options include:
- General liability
- Tools & equipment
- Janitorial bonds
- Additional insureds
- Workers’ compensation
- Cyber liability
- Customizable policies: Whether you’re a solo operation or a growing business, you can customize your policy to meet your specific needs.
- Easy-to-use online platform: Our website makes the process of getting quotes, applying for insurance, submitting claims, and managing your policies smooth and hassle-free.
- Affordable pricing: Insurance Canopy offers competitive pricing, especially for small businesses looking to keep costs down without sacrificing coverage.
Cons:
- No commercial auto (yet!): While commercial auto insurance isn’t available right now, it’s coming soon, so keep an eye out!
Nationwide
Nationwide has built a strong reputation for being reliable and financially stable with more than 90 years of experience. They offer a wide range of insurance options, including coverage for cleaning companies.
Pros:
- Coverage options: Offers a wide range of coverage options, including industry-specific policies.
- Price: Low quoted premiums for general liability policies and Business Owner Policies (BOPs).
- Offers business service bonds: Fidelity bonds that can provide coverage in the event that one of your employees is accused of stealing from a client of your cleaning business.
Cons:
- Limited online convenience: You can get a quote but not buy coverage online — working with an agent is necessary. You also need to contact your agent to request a copy of your certificate of insurance.
Thimble
Thimble offers insurance coverage for small businesses, including general liability, professional liability, business equipment protection, cyber insurance, and even workers’ compensation.
Pros:
- Quick online process: You can get a quote and purchase insurance in minutes.
- Flexible coverage options: Thimble offers the ability to purchase insurance by the job or by the month.
Cons:
- No commercial auto: Thimble doesn’t offer commercial auto insurance, which may be a dealbreaker for businesses that rely on vehicles for their operations.
- Limited customer support: Customer support is only available online, which can be frustrating for those who prefer phone-based communication.
- Not a marketplace: Unlike some competitors, Thimble is not a marketplace that shops around for the best rates. You’ll only receive quotes directly from Thimble, limiting options for comparison.
Huckleberry
Huckleberry (which is owned by payroll processing company PAYCHEX) is a brokerage that provides instant online quotes from various insurance companies, with the ability to get coverage in minutes. It offers essential policies like workers compensation and general liability, plus optional coverages for various industries from landscaping to retail.
Pros:
- Convenient online experience: Huckleberry offers a fully online application and approval process, eliminating the need for paperwork or phone calls with agents.
- Customizable policies: Huckleberry allows you to mix and match coverages from various insurers, providing flexibility for businesses with unique or specific needs.
- Quick certificate management: Policyholders can easily add additional insureds and generate certificates of insurance (COIs) directly online.
Cons:
- Limited customer support: Huckleberry primarily relies on live chat for customer support, which might be inconvenient for those who prefer phone or in-person interactions for resolving complex issues.
- Multiple insurers for different coverages: If you need multiple types of coverage, you could end up with policies from multiple providers, potentially complicating claims and policy management. It can also mean higher costs for you vs. providers like Insurance Canopy where you can bundle coverages in one policy.
- Broker, not a direct insurer: Since Huckleberry is an insurance broker, claims must be filed directly with the insurance carrier, which may create additional steps or delays in the claims process.
Hiscox
Hiscox is a global insurance company with a solid reputation for covering businesses of all sizes. Along with cleaning company insurance, it offers a wide range of protections, including property, liability, professional indemnity, cyber liability, and even marine insurance.
Pros:
- Worldwide coverage: Whether your business takes you across the U.S. or internationally, Hiscox has you covered — just as long as the claim is filed in the U.S., U.S. territories, or Canada.
- Simple online process: You can easily request a quote and purchase your policy straight from their website — no agent required.
- Flexible payment plans: Need flexibility? Hiscox lets you make monthly payments with no extra charges.
Cons:
- Limited coverage for some areas: For things like commercial auto or workers compensation, Hiscox might refer you to partner providers for quotes, which means a little extra legwork on your part.
- Higher complaint levels for commercial property and liability: There’s been some customer concerns in these areas, so it might be worth digging a little deeper into their commercial property and liability coverage.
USAA Cleaning Insurance
USAA offers cleaning insurance with a focus on affordability and convenience to those with ties to the military community. Policies include general liability and workers compensation, with online tools for quotes and claims tracking.
Pros:
- Online convenience: Easily get quotes and purchase some policies online.
- Accessible tools: Certificates of insurance and claim tracking are available through the website.
- Military-focused coverage: Unique options tailored to the needs of the military community.
Cons:
- Limited features: Cannot add additional insureds or file claims online yet, though updates are in progress.
- Must be USAA-eligible: As with its consumer-focused products, USAA is only available to active or retired members of the military and their immediate family members.
- Workers comp issues: Higher-than-expected complaints about Workers Compensation insurance, per NerdWallet’s analysis.
What Types of Insurance Do Cleaners Need?
Cleaning businesses deal with more than just dust and grime — they face risks that could disrupt operations or lead to unexpected expenses. Having the right insurance ensures your business is prepared for these challenges.
Here’s a look at the essential policies for cleaners:
General Liability Insurance
Accidents can happen even when you’re careful. General liability insurance protects you from the financial impact of accidents or property damage caused during your work. It prevents minor mishaps from turning into major expenses.
What it covers:
- Client property damage (like that shattered vase)
- Third-party slip-and-fall injuries caused by your work
- Legal fees if you’re sued over a covered accident
What it doesn’t cover:
- Employee injuries
- Stolen or damaged equipment
Tools and Equipment Insurance
Your equipment is the backbone of your business. What if your floor buffer gets stolen from your van? Replacing it out of pocket could set you back hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Equipment coverage, also known as inland marine insurance, ensures you can keep going even when disaster strikes.
What it covers:
- Stolen or damaged tools
- Equipment repairs after accidents
What it doesn’t cover:
- Wear and tear (time for a new mop, not a claim)
- Mysterious disappearances
- Items lost due to negligence
Workers Compensation Insurance
Cleaning can be tough on the body. If your employee sprains their wrist carrying heavy supplies, workers comp steps in to cover medical bills and lost wages, so you don’t have to. If you have a team, workers compensation isn’t just mandatory in most places — it’s a sign you care about their well-being.
What it covers:
- Medical expenses for work-related injuries
- Lost wages during recovery
- Legal costs if an employee files a lawsuit
What it doesn’t cover:
- Injuries to independent contractors
- Non-work-related accidents
Janitorial Bonds
Clients want assurance that they can trust you in their spaces. Say a client claims their jewelry is missing after your team cleans their home. A janitorial surety bond adds a layer of protection against theft, quickly covering the loss while also maintaining your professional reputation.
What it covers:
- Losses from employee theft
- Client reimbursement for dishonest acts
What it doesn’t cover:
- Damage from accidental breakage
- Theft by the business owner
Commercial Auto Insurance
Driving to job sites? Your personal auto policy likely won’t cut it. If you’re transporting cleaning supplies and get into an accident, commercial auto insurance is designed for vehicles used in your business.
What it covers:
- Accident-related vehicle damage
- Third-party injuries and property damage
- Stolen or vandalized business vehicles
What it doesn’t cover:
- Personal trips in your work vehicle
- Items damaged inside your car
Commercial Property Insurance
If you have an office or storage space, commercial property insurance shields you from the financial fallout of property damage and ensures you can bounce back without breaking the bank.
What it covers:
- Damage to your office or storage space
- Replacement costs for destroyed supplies or equipment
What it doesn’t cover:
- Flood damage (you may need separate coverage)
- Items not listed in your policy
What Types of Bonds Do Cleaners Need?
Several types of surety bonds can help protect your cleaning business and give clients confidence in your services:
Fidelity Bond (Also known as Janitorial Surety Bond)
A fidelity bond protects against employee theft or dishonesty, which is particularly important for cleaning businesses that handle clients’ property. A janitorial surety bond is a specific type of fidelity bond that covers theft or damage caused by employees during cleaning jobs.
License and Permit Bonds
These bonds ensure your business complies with local regulations. Authorities often require these bonds before issuing a business license, so they help keep your operations legal and above board.
Contractor Bond
If your cleaning business takes on large commercial contracts, a contractor bond ensures you meet all the terms and conditions agreed upon. If you fail to uphold the contract, the bond compensates the client for any damages.
How Much Does Cleaning Insurance Cost?
On average, businesses pay around $520 per year for standard cleaning insurance. The cost of insurance can depend on a few different factors, like the size of your business, the services you offer, and the type of coverage you choose.
At Insurance Canopy, we make it easy to get great coverage at a price that fits your budget. Our cleaning business insurance starts as low as $39 per month or $435 per year, which is significantly less than the national average.
Curious about the price of coverage? Our cleaning business insurance cost page provides a detailed breakdown to help you understand what to expect.
Questions About Cleaning Business Insurance
How do I switch from my current provider to Insurance Canopy?
Switching is simple! Just reach out to us, and we’ll help you cancel your current policy and get the best cleaning business insurance for your needs!
What insurance do I need as a housekeeper?
You’ll want general liability insurance to protect against accidents or damage, along with a janitorial bond for theft coverage. The best housekeeper business insurance usually includes a mix of these coverages and can be tailored to your specific needs.
Get more details about our house cleaning insurance.
Can I clean without insurance?
You can, but it’s risky — so you shouldn’t. Without insurance, you’re leaving yourself exposed to potential claims for accidents or damages. Insurance protects both you and your clients.
Does insurance cover damages caused by subcontractors I hire?
No, damages caused by subcontractors aren’t covered under our policy. Subcontractors should carry their own insurance to protect against mistakes or accidents. Only employees on your payroll are covered under your cleaning business insurance.
Are there differences between residential and commercial cleaning insurance?
Yes! Residential cleaning insurance focuses on home-based jobs, while commercial cleaning covers larger operations, different equipment and cleaning supplies, and more complex risks.
Don’t worry though! The price of insurance is usually the same for both residential and commercial cleaning. The only thing that might affect the cost is the number of employees as more staff may require workers compensation.
Does insurance cover if my employee steals something from a client?
If you have a janitorial bond, it can provide coverage for employee theft, helping to protect both your clients and your business. However, it’s important to note that proof of theft is usually required for the claim to be valid. Be sure to review the specifics of your policy to understand the details of coverage.
Secure the Best Coverage for Your Cleaning Business!
Choosing the right cleaning company insurance is crucial for your business’s success. By comparing providers and considering key factors, you can ensure your business is covered in any situation.
So, get a quote today and experience why Insurance Canopy is the perfect fit for your business.
