Is it a legal requirement?
Public liability insurance isn't a legal requirement for a cleaner in the UK. But in practice most cleaners need it, because agencies, letting agents and commercial clients usually ask to see proof before they'll book you. And more private clients ask about it than you might expect.
Employers' liability insurance is different. If you take on staff, even part time, you're legally required to have it.
What it covers
Public liability covers you if a client or member of the public is injured, or their property is damaged, because of your work. It pays compensation and legal costs. Typical claims include:
- Someone slipping on a wet floor
- Chemical damage to a surface, like a marble worktop or a wooden floor
- Breaking something valuable
- Water damage from a cleaning mishap
A damaged floor can easily run into thousands to repair. An injury claim, once lost earnings and legal fees are added, can go far higher. That liability follows you personally if you're a sole trader.
How much cover do you need?
- £1 million: the usual starting point, fine for light domestic work
- £2 million: common for most independent domestic cleaners
- £5 million: often asked for by commercial clients, offices and local authority work
If you're going for a commercial contract, check what they require before you buy.
What it costs
For a sole trader doing domestic cleaning, quotes typically start from around £55 to £70 a year, with most landing somewhere between £55 and £160. Mixing in office cleaning, adding more cover or taking on staff pushes the price up.
Paying monthly is handy, but usually costs 10 to 15% more over the year than paying up front. And it's a business expense, so you can claim it against your tax.
Extras worth thinking about
- Key cover: pays to change the locks if you lose a client's keys. Cheap, and worth it if you hold keys
- Equipment cover: for your hoover and kit if it's stolen or damaged, including from your car
- Employers' liability: required by law as soon as you have staff
Things that can catch you out
- Be honest about your turnover. Understating it to get a cheaper quote can void your policy when you need it
- Check the exclusions, especially around chemical damage if you do specialist or deep cleans
- Check the excess, the amount you pay towards any claim yourself
- Keep your certificate handy on your phone, so you can send it to new clients straight away
Having your insurance sorted also helps you win new clients, because it's one of the first things careful clients ask about.