The Cleaning & Janitorial Business Insurance Checklist
Cleaning and janitorial companies work inside other people’s spaces, which shapes the coverages clients tend to ask about.
Working in someone else’s space
A cleaning business spends its days handling clients’ keys, alarm codes, and belongings. That access is exactly why commercial clients and facility managers commonly ask cleaning companies for both insurance and a bond before signing.
The checklist below reflects what cleaning and janitorial companies are commonly asked to carry. Requirements vary by client and contract, so confirm the specifics with a licensed insurance professional.
The cleaning-business checklist
- General liability (GL) insurance. Commonly the foundation. GL is generally intended to respond, in the event of a covered claim, to third-party bodily injury or property damage allegations arising from your work — such as a slip on a freshly mopped floor.
- A janitorial (fidelity) bond. Frequently requested by commercial clients. A janitorial or fidelity bond is generally intended to address allegations of employee theft or dishonesty while on a client’s premises. Note that this is a bond, not liability insurance.
- Workers’ compensation. If you have employees, workers’ comp may be required by your state and is generally intended to address job-related injuries to your cleaning crew.
- Care, custody & control considerations. Standard liability policies commonly limit or exclude damage to property in your care, custody, or control. Ask a licensed insurance professional how claims involving items you are cleaning or handling are typically treated.
- Commercial auto. If your crews drive between job sites, business use may fall outside a personal auto policy. Commercial auto is generally intended to address vehicle-related claims tied to your work.
- A certificate of insurance (COI). Commercial accounts and property managers routinely request a COI before you start. Have one ready to issue once coverage is active.
- Additional insured wording. Building owners and management companies commonly require to be named as additional insured. Confirm the exact names and how they should appear before you sign.
Frequently asked questions
Is a janitorial bond the same as liability insurance?
No. A janitorial or fidelity bond is generally intended to address allegations of employee theft or dishonesty on a client’s premises, while general liability insurance is generally intended to respond to covered third-party injury or property-damage claims. A bond is a financial guarantee, not liability coverage.
Why do commercial clients ask cleaners for a bond?
Because cleaning crews often have access to keys, alarm codes, and valuables, clients commonly request a fidelity bond as added assurance against allegations of employee dishonesty. Whether it is required depends on the contract.
What is care, custody & control?
It refers to property that is in your possession or under your control while you work. Standard liability policies commonly limit or exclude damage to such property, so it is worth discussing with a licensed insurance professional how claims involving items you handle are typically treated.
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