- Ask for general liability and workers' compensation, and check whether a janitorial bond is offered.
- Request the certificate of insurance and confirm it with the insurance agent.
- Ask to be named as additional insured on the policy if your contract or lease requires it.
When a cleaning crew works in your building, your risk changes. Someone could be injured, property could be damaged, or something could go missing. Insurance decides who pays. This is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Ask your own insurance agent what your business needs.
The main coverages to look for
- General liability. Covers third-party bodily injury and property damage caused by the vendor's work, such as a slip on a freshly mopped floor or damage to equipment.
- Workers' compensation. Covers the vendor's employees if they are hurt on the job. Without it, a worker's injury can lead to claims against the building owner or tenant. In Florida, most non-construction employers with four or more employees are generally required to carry it. Confirm current requirements with the state.
- Commercial auto. Relevant if crews drive to your site in company vehicles.
- Janitorial bond or crime coverage. Often called a fidelity or dishonesty bond. It reimburses a client if an employee steals. Not every company has it, so ask.
- Umbrella or excess liability. Extra limits above the base policies for larger risk.
What a certificate of insurance (COI) is
A COI is a one-page summary, commonly on an ACORD form, showing the insurer, policy numbers, coverage types, limits and dates. It proves coverage existed on the day it was issued. It does not change the policy.
What "additional insured" means
If you are named as an additional insured, the vendor's policy can extend certain protection to you for claims arising from the vendor's work. Many leases and building managers require it. Ask for the endorsement, not just a line on the certificate.
How to verify
- Request the certificate from the vendor and have it sent by the insurance agent
- Check policy dates and that the business name matches the company you are hiring
- Confirm limits meet your lease or contract requirements
- Ask for notice of cancellation or request updated certificates at renewal
- Verify workers' compensation status with the state, where available
A note on subcontractors
If the vendor uses subcontractors, ask whether they carry their own insurance and whether you are covered for their work.
A Bright Rose is fully insured and provides a certificate of insurance before service begins. See also how to verify a company's credentials.