Window Cleaning Insurance: What to Look For

When hiring window cleaners, insurance coverage might not be the first thing on your mind – but it should be one of your top priorities. Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or property manager, understanding window cleaning insurance can save you from significant financial headaches down the track.

Why Window Cleaning Insurance Matters

Window cleaning involves working at heights, handling equipment, and accessing your property – activities that inherently carry risks. Without proper insurance coverage, you could be left liable for injuries, property damage, or other incidents that occur during the cleaning process.

Consider this scenario: A window cleaner slips while cleaning your second-storey windows, injuring themselves and damaging your guttering. If they're not properly insured, you might face compensation claims and repair costs that could reach tens of thousands of dollars.

Types of Insurance Coverage to Look For

Public Liability Insurance

This is the cornerstone of window cleaning insurance. Public liability coverage protects you from claims if the cleaner causes injury to third parties or damage to property. In Australia, most professional window cleaners carry between $5 million to $20 million in public liability cover.

What it covers:

• Accidental damage to your windows, frames, or surrounding property
• Injury to you, your family, employees, or visitors
• Damage to neighbouring properties
• Legal costs if claims arise

Professional Indemnity Insurance

While less common for basic window cleaning, professional indemnity becomes important when cleaners provide advice or specialised services. This coverage protects against claims of inadequate work or failure to meet professional standards.

Workers' Compensation Insurance

If the window cleaning company employs staff, they're legally required to carry workers' compensation insurance in most Australian states. This coverage protects employees who are injured on the job and prevents you from being held liable for workplace injuries.

Product Liability Insurance

This covers incidents involving cleaning products or equipment. If a chemical reaction damages your window frames or cleaning equipment malfunctions and causes damage, product liability insurance provides protection.

Red Flags: Signs of Inadequate Coverage

Unwillingness to Provide Insurance Details

Legitimate insured window cleaners will readily provide their insurance certificate and policy details. If a cleaner hesitates, claims their insurance is "in the mail," or provides evasive answers, consider it a major red flag.

Unusually Low Quotes

If a quote seems too good to be true, it often is. Proper insurance coverage costs money, and legitimate businesses factor these costs into their pricing. Suspiciously low quotes might indicate corner-cutting on insurance.

Cash-Only Operations

While not automatically disqualifying, businesses that only accept cash and have no official invoicing system often lack proper insurance coverage and business registration.

How to Verify Insurance Coverage

Request Current Certificates

Ask for a current certificate of currency before work begins. This document should show:

• Policy numbers and coverage amounts
• Expiry dates (ensure coverage extends beyond your cleaning date)
• Insurer contact details
• Specific coverage types

Contact the Insurer Directly

For high-value properties or large commercial jobs, consider contacting the insurance company directly to verify coverage. Most insurers will confirm policy details when provided with policy numbers.

Check Business Registration

Verify the business is properly registered through ASIC's business name register. Legitimate businesses with proper insurance are typically properly registered.

Questions to Ask Potential Window Cleaners

When vetting window cleaning services, ask these specific questions:

1. "Can you provide current insurance certificates before starting work?"
2. "What's your public liability coverage amount?"
3. "Are your employees covered by workers' compensation?"
4. "How do you handle damage claims?"
5. "Can you provide references from recent commercial clients?"

Commercial vs Residential Considerations

Commercial Properties

Commercial window cleaning liability requirements are typically higher due to increased foot traffic and higher property values. Many commercial buildings require:

• Minimum $10-20 million public liability coverage
• Current insurance certificates on file
• Compliance with OH&S requirements
• Regular insurance renewals

Residential Properties

While residential requirements are less stringent, don't compromise on coverage. A minimum of $5 million public liability should be standard, even for basic residential window cleaning.

Cost Implications of Proper Insurance

Expect to pay slightly more for properly insured services – typically 10-20% above uninsured competitors. However, this premium is minimal compared to potential liability costs. Consider it an investment in peace of mind rather than an additional expense.

Documentation and Record Keeping

Always maintain records of:

• Insurance certificates and policy details
• Invoices and payment records
• Any incident reports or damage claims
• Communication regarding insurance matters

This documentation proves crucial if claims arise months after cleaning work is completed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my home insurance cover damage caused by window cleaners?

Generally, no. Most home insurance policies exclude damage caused by contractors you've hired. The contractor's public liability insurance should cover such incidents.

How can I tell if an insurance certificate is legitimate?

Check for professional formatting, current dates, recognisable insurer names, and specific policy numbers. When in doubt, contact the insurer directly to verify.

What should I do if damage occurs during window cleaning?

Document the damage immediately with photos, notify the cleaning company, and request they contact their insurer. Don't attempt repairs until the insurance claim process begins.

Are sole trader window cleaners required to have insurance?

While not legally mandated for sole traders, professional indemnity and public liability insurance are essential for anyone providing services on others' property.

Can I be held liable if an uninsured window cleaner is injured on my property?

Potentially, yes. Property owners can face liability claims from injured contractors, particularly if property hazards contributed to the incident. This is why hiring insured professionals is crucial.

Understanding window cleaning insurance requirements protects both your property and financial interests. Take time to verify coverage before work begins – it's a small investment that could save you significant costs and stress later.