Things to Watch Out For with Cleaners Insurance
When choosing insurance for your cleaning business, it’s important to look beyond the price and understand exactly what’s covered. Many policies include exclusions or high excesses that could leave you exposed when making a claim. Here are key areas to review carefully before purchasing or renewing your policy:
1. High Excesses
Check the policy excess (the amount you pay towards a claim). Some insurers apply high excesses to reduce premiums, but this can become a major out-of-pocket expense if you need to claim. Make sure your business can comfortably afford the excess amount.
2. Restricted Work Locations
Many cleaning policies exclude certain sites or activities, for example:
- Schools, hospitals, or aged care facilities
- Shopping centres
- Cleaning during business hours or when the public is present
Always confirm that your policy covers the specific types of locations and timing your business operates in.
3. Use of Chemicals and Cleaning Products
Some insurers exclude claims if damage or injury results from using chemicals incorrectly or without proper training. Ensure your policy covers the use of cleaning agents and that you and your team follow safety guidelines (like storing and diluting chemicals properly).
4. Subcontractors and Vicarious Liability
If you hire subcontractors, check whether they are covered under your policy. Some insurers exclude subcontractors entirely, meaning you could still be held liable for their actions. Look for cleaning insurance cover that includes vicarious liability, so you’re protected even if a subcontractor causes damage or injury.
5. Loss of Keys or Access Cards
Cleaners often hold keys or access passes to client premises. Not all policies cover the cost of replacing locks or security systems if these are lost or stolen. If you handle keys regularly, ensure loss of keys cover is included or available as an optional extra.
6. Property in Your Care, Custody, or Control
Many cleaning liability policies exclude damage to property that’s in your possession — for example, furniture or fixtures you move while cleaning. Confirm whether your public liability insurance policy includes care, custody, and control cover to protect against these risks.
7. Equipment and Tools Cover
Check whether your policy includes insurance for your cleaning equipment, vacuums, and tools. Theft from vehicles or worksites is common, so ensure your general property/tools cover applies both on and off the job.
8. Incorrect Use of Cleaning Chemicals
Some insurers won’t cover claims for damage caused by incorrect cleaning methods. Read your public liability exclusions carefully to see where your responsibilities lie.
At Morgan Insurance Brokers, we help cleaning business owners review their cover, identify gaps, and find policies that actually match the way they operate. From public liability to tools and equipment cover, our goal is to make sure you’re fully protected whether you’re cleaning high-rise windows, office spaces, or residential complexes.
