Get a Window Cleaning Insurance Quote

What is window cleaning insurance? 

Window cleaning businesses face a unique set of risks. Damage to a client's property, personal injury and third-party liability are all common hazards that window cleaners contend with, and any one of them can result in an insurance claim. That's why there's window cleaning insurance.

Window cleaning insurance is an umbrella term for a group of policies that covers accidents that result in property damage or injury, as well as damaged or stolen tools.

Who needs window cleaning insurance? 

Anyone in the window cleaning business will require window cleaning insurance. This includes:

• Professional window cleaners: Regardless of whether you're sole proprietor or run a larger company, window cleaning insurance will help protect you against potential liabilities and financial losses.
• Commercial window cleaning companies: Businesses that offer window cleaning services to commercial properties, such as office buildings and retail stores, will need insurance to cover risks associated with larger projects.
• Residential window cleaners: Those who clean windows for homeowners also need insurance to protect against accidents and damages that may occur on the job.
• High-rise window cleaners: Cleaning windows on high-rise buildings involves significant risks, making insurance crucial for covering potential injuries, liability claims and property damage.
• Part-time or seasonal window cleaners: Even if window cleaning is not your primary business, having insurance can protect you from unexpected incidents.

What does window cleaning insurance cover? 

Window cleaning insurance typically covers these three main areas:

• Commercial general liability insurance: CGL for short, this coverage is mandatory for trades professions, including window cleaners, in some provinces, such as Ontario. This policy will protect you against lawsuits that are related to someone’s property being damaged or someone being injured due to your actions. For example, if you were to drop a bucket from the fifth storey of a building and it damages a vehicle below, CGL will help cover your legal fees and repair costs.

• Professional liability insurance: This is also known as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. It covers claims related to professional errors or negligence. For instance, if you use the wrong chemicals while cleaning, leading to a permanent stain, you may be sued by the client. Professional liability insurance will help cover your legal costs.
• Tools and equipment insurance: This is also called tool floater insurance and usually comes with a standard window cleaner insurance policy. It will cover the tools and equipment your company uses if they are lost, stolen or damaged. Any items valued under $1,500 are considered tools, while those over $1,500 are categorized as equipment.

What insurance add-ons are recommended for window cleaning businesses?

While these add-ons are not always mandatory, many window cleaning businesses in Canada opt to include them as part of their insurance package.

Commercial auto insurance: If you use a vehicle or vehicles as part of your regular business operations, you'll be required to get commercial auto insurance. Even if the vehicle you use for business is the same as the one you use for everyday driving, commercial protection is required. Commercial auto insurance covers you for most of the things personal auto insurance protects against, but extends that coverage to when you use your vehicle for work.

Business interruption insurance: This insurance protects your window cleaning company from lost income due to unexpected disruptions, such as natural disasters, fires or other incidents that can halt operations. It helps cover fixed expenses, like employee salaries and rent.

Pollution liability insurance: Since window cleaning can involve harmful chemicals, you may want to get pollution liability insurance. If a window cleaning technician uses harmful chemicals that lead to environmental contamination and health issues for nearby residents, pollution liability insurance can help cover the costs associated with legal claims from the affected individuals and any remediation that is required.

How much does window cleaning insurance cost in Canada? 

The cost of window cleaning insurance in Canada can vary based on several factors, including the size of your business, the scope of services, your claims history and the type of coverage you choose. Here are some general guidelines:

• General liability insurance: Typically starts at around $450 per year for a $2 million coverage limit.
• Comprehensive insurance packages: Can start at approximately $575 per year.

Policies with add-ons like commercial auto insurance will have higher premiums. To see how much insurance will cost for your window cleaning business, you should get a personalized quote.

What factors determine window cleaning insurance rates? 

The price of window cleaning insurance in Canada depends on several different factors:

• Level of risk: The height at which you clean windows will noticeably impact the cost of insurance. Therefore, a window cleaner who specializes in street level window cleaning will pay less than someone who specializes in high-rise buildings.
• Business equipment and property: The value and type of equipment you use can affect your insurance costs. More expensive or specialized equipment will increase your premiums.
• Revenue: Higher business revenue can increase insurance premiums because it means more risk exposure.
• Deductible: The amount you choose to pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in influences your premium. Higher deductibles result in lower premiums.
• Location: The geographical location of your business can impact costs. For example, areas with higher crime rates or more severe weather conditions might lead to higher premiums.
• Years in operation: Established businesses with a solid track record often qualify for lower premiums compared to newer ones.

How does window cleaning insurance work? 

Window cleaning insurance provides financial protection against unforeseen incidents. When you submit a claim, your insurer evaluates the situation, and if it’s covered, compensates you for the related expenses up to your policy’s limits. This helps you manage losses and keep your business running smoothly.

How to get the cheapest window cleaning insurance quote?

To reduce the premium you're quoted by insurance companies, consider the following options:

Compare multiple quotes: Use online platforms to compare quotes from different insurers. This helps you find the best rate for your needs.

Bundle policies: If you need multiple types of insurance (e.g. general liability, commercial auto, etc.), bundling them with the same provider can often result in discounts.

Increase your deductible: Opting for a higher deductible can lower your premium. Just ensure you can afford the deductible in case of a claim.

Maintain a good claims history: Insurers often offer lower rates to businesses with fewer past claims. Implement safety measures to reduce the likelihood of accidents and claims.

Choose the right coverage: Only pay for the coverage you need. For example, if you do not use vehicles for your business, you can skip commercial auto insurance.

Ask about discounts: Some insurers offer discounts for things like paying annually instead of monthly, or for having a good safety record. When binding your policy, ask what discounts the provider offers to see whether you can save.