Running a cleaning business in Louisiana is all about providing a clean environment for your clients to live and work in. But what is protecting your business? Insurance safeguards your business in case of unexpected incidents happen. In this guide, we’ll discuss the most common insurance policies you should consider when protecting your Louisiana based business.
Why Your Cleaning Business Needs Insurance
No matter how careful you are, accidents happen. Here are a few reasons why having insurance is important:
- Client Property Damage: Slips, spills, and broken items are potential hazards when working in other people’s spaces. Having insurance that covers you if you accidentally damage a client’s property while cleaning is important to a healthy company.
- Employee Injuries: If an employee gets hurt on the job, you’ll want to make sure they have their medical expenses and lost wages covered.
- Lawsuits: A client might sue you if they believe your services caused damage or someone gets injured due to your work. Insurance can help cover legal fees and settlements in such situations.
Having the right insurance not only protects your finances but also demonstrates professionalism to your clients. It gives them peace of mind knowing they’re covered in case there is a mishap.
Essential Insurance Coverage for Cleaning Businesses
Here are the key types of insurance to consider for your cleaning business:
- General Liability Insurance: This is an essential coverage for any business. It protects you from financial losses if a third party (someone other than your employees) files a lawsuit against your business for bodily injury or property damage. For instance, if a client slips on a wet floor and gets hurt, or you accidentally damage a client’s expensive antique vase, general liability insurance can help cover the legal costs and any settlements.
- Workers' Compensation Insurance: If an employee gets injured while working for you, workers' compensation insurance helps cover their medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. This is mandatory by law in Louisiana and required in most other states.
- Commercial Auto Insurance: If you or your employees use vehicles for business purposes, commercial auto insurance is important to have. It covers physical damage, liability, medical payments, and more.
- Bonding: Bonding protects your clients from financial loss in case one of your employees steals money or client belongings. While not always mandatory, it can be a valuable addition to protect your business, especially if you handle expensive items or client valuables during your cleaning services.
Understanding Your Risks and Tailoring Your Coverage
The type and amount of insurance coverage you need will depend on several factors specific to your cleaning business:
- The size and scope of your business: Larger cleaning companies with more employees will likely need more comprehensive coverage compared to a solo cleaning professional.
- The type of cleaning services you offer: High-risk services like window cleaning or specialty cleaning might require additional coverage.
- Your state’s insurance requirements: Workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory in most states, while other coverages might be optional.
It’s important to consult with an independent insurance agent who can assess your specific risks and tailor an insurance plan that meets your needs. That’s where Lewis Mohr fits in. We are a family-owned independent insurance agency that has been in business for more than 55 years. We’ll assess your needs and shop your policy for the best rate. If you need help with insurance for your business please contact us today via our website or by phone.
