No matter what sort of cleaning you do, there are several different types of insurance you should consider to cover your business risks. They are:
Public liability insurance
Public liability insurance is essential for anyone in the cleaning business, whether that’s cleaning houses or offices, window cleaning or dry cleaning clothes. Public liability will cover you against claims that your cleaning activity caused injury to a member of the public or damaged their property. It’s easy for a customer to accidentally trip over a power cord, which could lead to a claim for personal injury.
In addition, despite being very careful, house and office cleaning can frequently lead to unintentional and accidental breakage of fragile items (or damage to expensive clothes if you’re a dry cleaner). This insurance can offer between $5 million and $20 million worth of coverage and is compulsory for cleaners in many situations, particularly if you wish to tender for government cleaning contracts for offices, schools and universities.
What it covers:
- Damage to a third party’s property
- Third-party personal injury claims
- Legal fees to defend yourself
Business equipment insurance
General property or portable business equipment insurance will cover your cleaning tools and equipment if they’re damaged or stolen. This can include vacuum cleaners, hand tools or ladders and lifters if you clean at heights.
What it covers:
- Fire, storms, theft, vandalism and collision
- Specialist cover for electronic equipment and other portable cleaning equipment
- Limited business interruption insurance
Personal accident and illness insurance
Since you rely on your physical fitness to be able to clean effectively, taking care of your health should be a high priority for all people who earn their living by cleaning. Accident and sickness insurance can provide cover for you if you become sick and are unable to work, with a weekly replacement income available if you’re unable to work as a result of an accident or injury.
What it covers:
- Loss of income as a result of an injury or illness
Optional extras can include:
- Death benefits
- Disablement benefits
- Payment of business expenses during your recovery period