Window Cleaning Insurance: What Australian Homeowners Need to Know
When you're looking up at those grimy second-storey windows, hiring a professional window cleaner seems like the obvious choice. But before you hand over your keys and watch someone scale ladders around your property, there's a crucial question you need to ask: "Are you insured?"
Window cleaning might look straightforward, but it's actually a high-risk profession. From ladder accidents to accidental property damage, plenty can go wrong. Here's what every Australian homeowner needs to know about window cleaning insurance to protect both their property and their wallet.
Why Window Cleaning Insurance Matters for Homeowners
Window cleaning insurance isn't just about protecting the cleaner – it's your safety net too. Without proper coverage, you could find yourself liable for workplace injuries on your property or left to cover expensive repairs from accidental damage.
Consider this scenario: A window cleaner falls from a ladder on your property and breaks their leg. If they don't have workers' compensation insurance, they might pursue compensation from you as the property owner. Similarly, if they accidentally break an expensive window or damage your guttering, someone needs to pay for repairs.
The stakes are particularly high for multi-storey homes. Professional window cleaners regularly work at dangerous heights, increasing the risk of serious accidents and costly damage claims.
Types of Insurance Coverage for Window Cleaners
Professional window cleaners in Australia should carry several types of insurance to operate legally and safely:
Public Liability Insurance
This covers damage to your property or injury to third parties (like you, your family, or neighbours) during cleaning operations. Most reputable cleaners carry coverage between $5-20 million, though $10 million is considered the industry standard.
Public liability insurance would cover scenarios like:
- A ladder falling and damaging your car
- Water damage to interior furnishings
- Injury to a family member from falling equipment
Workers' Compensation Insurance
Required by law in all Australian states and territories, this protects workers if they're injured on the job. It covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages.
For sole traders, workers' compensation isn't mandatory in most states, but many choose to take out personal injury insurance instead.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
While less common for window cleaners, this covers claims related to professional mistakes or negligence. For example, if a cleaner uses the wrong chemicals and damages specialised glass coatings.
Tool and Equipment Insurance
This protects the cleaner's equipment but can indirectly benefit you by ensuring they have well-maintained, safe equipment.
How to Verify Your Window Cleaner's Insurance
Don't just take their word for it – always request proof of insurance before work begins. Here's what to look for:
Request a Certificate of Currency
A legitimate certificate of currency should include:
- Insurance company name and contact details
- Policy numbers
- Coverage amounts
- Expiry dates
- The business name matching your service provider
Be wary of cleaners who can't produce this documentation immediately or seem evasive about insurance questions.
Check the Coverage Amounts
Ensure public liability coverage is at least $5 million, though $10 million provides better protection for substantial claims. The policy should be current – expired insurance is worthless.
Verify with the Insurer
For large jobs or if you have concerns, contact the insurance company directly to confirm the policy is active and covers the type of work being performed at your property.
Red Flags: Uninsured Window Cleaners
Some warning signs that a window cleaner might not have adequate insurance:
- Quotes significantly below market rates
- Cash-only payment requests
- No business registration or ABN
- Reluctance to provide insurance documentation
- Door-to-door solicitation without credentials
- No written quotes or contracts
Remember: if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Uninsured cleaners often undercut legitimate businesses because they're not paying for proper coverage.
What Happens If You Hire an Uninsured Cleaner
The consequences can be severe and expensive:
Property Damage: You'll likely bear the full cost of repairs if uninsured cleaners damage your windows, gutters, or other property.
Personal Liability: If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you might face workers' compensation claims or personal injury lawsuits.
Insurance Complications: Your home insurance might not cover incidents involving uninsured contractors, leaving you completely exposed.
Legal Issues: In some cases, hiring uninsured contractors can create legal complications, particularly around workplace safety obligations.
Tips for Homeowners
Get Everything in Writing
Ensure your contract specifies that the cleaner maintains appropriate insurance coverage throughout the job. Include a clause requiring immediate notification if coverage lapses.
Check Your Own Insurance
Review your home insurance policy to understand what's covered when contractors work on your property. Some policies have specific exclusions for certain types of contractor work.
Keep Records
Maintain copies of insurance certificates, contracts, and receipts. This documentation could be crucial if claims arise later.
Consider the Frequency
For regular cleaning services, verify insurance coverage annually or whenever you renew the contract. Policies can lapse or change without notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my home insurance cover accidents involving window cleaners?
Generally, no. Most home insurance policies exclude coverage for contractor-related incidents, making the contractor's insurance your primary protection. However, policies vary, so check with your insurer.
How much should window cleaning insurance cost the contractor?
Professional window cleaners typically pay $800-2,500 annually for comprehensive coverage, depending on their business size and risk profile. This cost is usually factored into their service pricing.
Can I hire a window cleaner who only has workers' compensation insurance?
While workers' comp protects the cleaner, you'd still be exposed to property damage claims. Always insist on public liability coverage as well.
What if my regular window cleaner's insurance expires mid-contract?
Work should stop immediately until coverage is renewed. Continuing without valid insurance exposes you to significant financial risk.
Are franchise window cleaning services always insured?
While franchises typically require insurance, individual franchisees might let policies lapse. Always verify coverage regardless of the business structure.
Hiring insured window cleaners protects both you and the professionals working on your property. While it might cost slightly more upfront, proper insurance coverage provides invaluable peace of mind and financial protection. Always verify coverage before work begins – your wallet will thank you later.