Insurance and bonding basics
Deeper article on limits and myths.
Guide
Cleaning business insurance and bonding
General liability, workers' compensation, and surety bonds — what residential and commercial clients expect before they hand over keys.
This page is general information, not legal, tax, or insurance advice. State and city rules differ — confirm requirements with a licensed attorney, accountant, or agent in your area.
Coverage basics
- General liability: client property damage and bodily injury on site.
- Workers' compensation: required in most states when you have W-2 employees.
- Commercial auto: vehicles titled to the business or used primarily for work.
- Surety bond: theft coverage clients may require for offices and property managers.
Read the full article for limits, certificates, and common myths. Never claim coverage you do not carry. Cleaning business insurance and bonding
FAQ
Insurance
What insurance do cleaning businesses need?
General liability is the baseline — it covers client property damage and slip-and-fall claims. Workers' compensation is required in most states once you have employees. Commercial auto applies if vehicles are titled to the business.
What is a cleaning business bond?
A surety bond reimburses the client if theft is proven. It is not the same as liability insurance. Residential clients rarely ask; offices and property managers often do.
Can I start without insurance?
You can, but one broken fixture or missing item can erase months of profit. Many owners buy a policy before the first paid visit.
How do I prove coverage to a commercial client?
Ask your agent for a certificate of insurance (COI) listing the client as certificate holder. Keep limits aligned with their vendor requirements.
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