What insurance does a house cleaner need?
Not all professions face the same risks. Below is a breakdown of every coverage type relevant to house cleaners — what each one covers, whether it's required, and what you should expect to pay in 2026.
General LiabilityRequired
$25–$60/mo
Core protection for cleaners. Covers accidental property damage and injuries that occur during cleaning.
Surety BondRequired
$10–$25/mo
Protects clients against theft by you or your employees. Many clients require bonding before hiring a cleaner.
Workers CompensationRequired
$50–$150/mo
Required in most states if you have employees. Covers injuries from slips, chemical exposure, and repetitive strain.
Business Equipment
$8–$20/mo
Covers your cleaning equipment, vacuums, and supplies against theft or damage.
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Top risks for house cleaners
- Accidental property damage
- Theft accusation
- Client injury at home
- Cleaning product damage
- Employee injury
How much does insurance cost?
Most house cleaners pay $40–$100/month for a complete coverage package. Your exact cost depends on your state, annual revenue, whether you have employees, your claims history, and the coverage limits you choose.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cleaning business surety bond?
A surety bond protects your clients financially if you or an employee steals from them. It's not insurance — it's a financial guarantee. Most clients expect cleaners to be bonded.
What if I break something at a client's home?
General liability insurance covers accidental breakage and property damage during cleaning. This is the most common claim type for cleaning businesses.
Do I need insurance to clean houses part-time?
Yes. If you're being paid to clean, you're running a business. Your homeowner's or renter's insurance won't cover business-related incidents.
How to get the best rate
The fastest way to find the lowest rate is to compare multiple carriers side by side. Most house cleaners can get quotes from 3–5 insurers in under 10 minutes and receive their certificate of insurance the same day.