What insurance do I need for a domestic cleaning business in the UK?

Understanding insurance for a UK domestic cleaning business

Running a domestic cleaning business in the UK can look deceptively simple: you bring your skills, your products, and your reliability, and you leave homes sparkling. But behind every successful clean is a professional operation that manages risk. Insurance is one of the clearest ways to protect your income, your reputation, and your future. Whether you’re cleaning as a sole trader, operating a small team, or building a larger agency, the right cover can be the difference between a minor hiccup and a business-ending cost.

This guide explains the main types of insurance domestic cleaning businesses commonly need in the UK, why each one matters, and how to choose sensible limits. It also covers practical scenarios cleaners run into—accidental damage, injury claims, stolen equipment, disagreements about standards, and data security. Along the way, you’ll see how good documentation supports your insurance position. That’s where invoice24 helps: by keeping your quotes, invoices, client details, and payment records organised, invoice24 makes it easier to run your cleaning business professionally and prove what was agreed if questions arise.

Why insurance matters more than you think

Cleaning work happens in other people’s homes, often around valuables, delicate surfaces, pets, children, and busy schedules. Even with the best care, incidents can happen: a bottle tips and stains a rug, a client trips on a damp floor, or a vacuum breaks a fragile ornament. Sometimes the claim is fair. Sometimes it isn’t. Insurance isn’t just about paying for genuine accidents—it’s also about having legal support and a structured process when a complaint escalates.

Many domestic cleaners also rely on repeat work and referrals. If an accident happens, being able to say “I’m fully insured” can reassure clients and help protect your reputation. In certain situations—working through agencies, cleaning for landlords, or taking on end-of-tenancy cleans—insurance may be requested before work starts. Even if not requested, having cover can help you win business, especially when you position yourself as a reliable professional rather than an informal cash-only service.

Finally, good insurance is part of good business hygiene. Cleaners manage physical risk (slips and falls), property risk (damage), financial risk (missed payments), and operational risk (staff, vehicles, equipment). Insurance can’t remove risk, but it can make it manageable, predictable, and survivable.

Public liability insurance: the core cover most cleaners start with

If you only take one policy to start, public liability insurance is often the foundation for a domestic cleaning business. It generally helps cover claims if your work causes injury to a third party or damage to third-party property. In the context of domestic cleaning, that “third party” is usually your client, their family members, visitors, neighbours, or their property.

Typical scenarios public liability can help with include:

- A client slips on a wet hallway floor you’ve just mopped and injures their wrist.
- You accidentally knock over a lamp, damaging it beyond repair.
- Cleaning fluid damages a kitchen worktop or discolours upholstery.
- While carrying equipment, you scratch a car on a driveway.

Public liability isn’t a “get out of jail free” card. Policies usually have conditions, exclusions, and excesses. They also won’t cover everything (for example, deliberate damage, or some forms of professional error if you provide specialised advice). But for everyday accidents and claims that could otherwise cost thousands, it’s a major safety net.

How much cover do you need? Many small cleaners choose limits like £1 million, £2 million, or £5 million. Higher limits can be sensible if you work in high-value properties or want to reassure clients. Some commercial clients may require higher limits even if you mostly focus on domestic work. The right amount depends on your typical jobs, your client profile, and your risk tolerance.

Employers’ liability insurance: required if you have staff

If you employ anyone, employers’ liability insurance is usually a legal requirement in the UK. This applies not just to full-time employees, but often to part-time staff and many casual arrangements. If someone works for you and you direct how and when they work, you may be considered an employer even if the arrangement feels informal.

Employers’ liability typically covers claims from employees who are injured or become ill due to their work. In cleaning, that might involve:

- Back injuries from lifting and carrying equipment.
- Skin reactions from exposure to products (even when used correctly).
- Slips and falls during cleaning tasks.
- Repetitive strain issues from repeated manual work.

If you run a small team, employers’ liability is not an area to “wing it.” Beyond legal compliance, it can protect you from significant costs and reduce the chance of a dispute turning into a personal financial crisis. Even if you use subcontractors, you should check whether your arrangement genuinely qualifies as subcontracting and whether they hold their own insurance. Some policies can be tailored depending on whether workers are employees or bona fide contractors.

Professional indemnity insurance: for advice, specialist services, or disputes about standards

Professional indemnity insurance is most commonly associated with consultants, designers, and other professional service providers. Domestic cleaning businesses sometimes overlook it, but it can be relevant depending on the services you provide and how you market them.

Professional indemnity can help if a client claims you made a mistake in your professional service that caused them financial loss. In a cleaning context, this can overlap with disputes about what was promised. Examples might include:

- You offer specialist stain removal and a client claims the method you chose ruined a fabric or reduced its value.
- You promote yourself as providing “safe, hypoallergenic, allergy-reducing cleans,” and a client claims they relied on that and suffered loss when the outcome wasn’t as expected.
- You provide end-of-tenancy cleaning with a “pass guarantee” and a landlord claims you failed to meet the required standard, leading to deductions or re-clean charges.

Public liability often handles accidents causing damage or injury. Professional indemnity is more about the “professional service” element: advice, judgement, promised outcomes, and alleged negligence in how a service is delivered. If your business is expanding into higher-value, specialist, or more contractual work, it’s worth discussing professional indemnity with an insurer or broker.

Tools, equipment, and stock insurance: protecting what you rely on daily

Your cleaning kit is your livelihood. Vacuums, carpet cleaners, steamers, mop systems, chemicals, microfibres, ladders, and specialist attachments add up quickly. If they’re stolen from your vehicle, damaged in transit, or destroyed in an accident, replacing them out of pocket can be painful and can stop you working.

Tools and equipment insurance (sometimes called “business equipment” or “contents cover” depending on the policy) can help cover repair or replacement of items used for work. Consider what you carry, where you store it, and how often you transport it.

A few practical notes:

- If you store equipment at home, check whether your home insurance covers business items (it often doesn’t by default).
- If you keep equipment in a vehicle overnight, some policies may have restrictions or require certain security measures.
- If you use expensive specialist machines (carpet extraction, polishing equipment), make sure the policy covers those specific items and the value is adequate.

It’s also smart to keep a simple inventory list with approximate values and purchase dates. invoice24 can help you stay organised by storing receipts-related details alongside your invoices and job records, making it easier to evidence ownership and value if you ever need to claim.

Personal accident and income protection: cover for you, not just the client

Many cleaning businesses are built around one key person: you. If you can’t work due to an accident or illness, your income can drop to zero overnight, while your bills keep coming. Public liability protects you against claims from others, but it doesn’t typically replace your income if you’re injured.

Personal accident insurance can help provide a payout if you’re injured and unable to work, while income protection is designed to replace a portion of your earnings over a longer period if illness or injury prevents you from working. The right choice depends on your budget, health, and how much financial cushion you have.

For cleaners, common injury risks include slips, trips, falls, strains, and repetitive injuries. If you’re working alone, even a minor injury can mean lost weeks of work. If your schedule is full of recurring clients, you also risk losing those clients if you can’t provide continuity. Having cover that supports you through downtime can help you recover properly rather than rushing back too soon.

One practical step: make sure your business finances are clearly documented. If you ever apply for income protection or need to evidence earnings during a claim, clean records help. invoice24 can support this by keeping a neat history of invoices, payments, and client work—exactly the kind of paper trail that can make admin simpler when you’re already dealing with stress.

Business car or van insurance: standard policies may not cover you

If you drive to clients with equipment, you should check your vehicle insurance carefully. A standard “social, domestic, and pleasure” policy may not cover business use, and relying on the wrong cover could cause serious problems if you have an accident while travelling to a job.

Business vehicle insurance can cover driving for work purposes—travelling between client homes, transporting equipment, and sometimes carrying staff. If you use a van or a car heavily for your cleaning business, it’s worth ensuring the policy matches your actual use. You may also want to consider whether tools stored in the vehicle are covered, or whether you need separate tools-in-transit cover.

Keeping accurate records of jobs and travel can also help you understand costs and profitability. While invoice24 is primarily for invoicing and payment tracking, it can also support better job documentation, making it easier to see where your business is earning well and where travel or time is eating into margins.

Property insurance: if you have an office, storage unit, or premises

Many domestic cleaners operate from home, but some grow into having a small office, a lock-up, or a storage unit for bulk supplies and equipment. If you hold stock or expensive equipment at a business premises, you may need commercial property insurance to protect against fire, flood, theft, and other risks.

Even if you don’t have a dedicated premises, consider the following:

- Do you store large volumes of consumables (chemicals, paper products, bin liners) at home?
- Do you keep expensive machines in a garage or shed?
- Do you have branded uniforms, signage, or promotional materials that would be costly to replace?

If the answer is yes, you may benefit from some form of property or contents cover specific to your business. The goal is continuity: if something happens, you want to be able to replace essentials quickly and keep serving clients.

Legal expenses cover: support when disagreements escalate

Legal disputes can arise in small businesses for reasons you don’t expect. A client might refuse to pay, claim the clean was substandard, or accuse you of damage you didn’t cause. A neighbour might complain about parking or noise. A supplier dispute could occur if equipment is faulty. Legal expenses insurance can help cover certain legal costs associated with defending or pursuing claims, depending on the policy.

For domestic cleaners, a common pain point is payment disputes. A client might delay payment, argue about scope, or challenge an invoice weeks later. This is where the combination of clear communication and good documentation matters. If you use invoice24 to produce professional invoices and keep a clear record of what was charged, when it was issued, and when it was paid, you reduce the chance of misunderstandings. If a dispute does happen, you’re not scrambling for details—you have them in one place.

Cyber and data protection insurance: increasingly relevant for small cleaners

Even small cleaning businesses hold personal data: client names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, alarm instructions, access codes, and sometimes details of keys. If you store this data digitally—on a phone, laptop, tablet, or cloud service—there is a risk of loss, theft, or breach.

Cyber insurance can help in certain situations involving hacking, ransomware, phishing, or data breaches. For a domestic cleaning business, the risk might seem low, but the impact can be high if a device is stolen or an account is compromised. Think about what would happen if someone got access to your client list, schedules, or access notes. Even if the breach is accidental, you may have obligations to handle the incident properly.

The basics still matter most: use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication where possible, keep devices updated, and avoid storing sensitive access details in easily accessible notes. And keep your business admin organised so you can respond quickly if something goes wrong. invoice24 supports professional recordkeeping and can reduce the need to store scattered client and invoice information across multiple apps and spreadsheets.

Key cover and fidelity guarantee: trust-based protection

Domestic cleaners often hold keys or have access to properties when clients are out. This creates a trust relationship that is valuable—and sometimes fragile. Some insurers offer extensions or separate cover related to keys, such as the cost of replacing locks if keys are lost or stolen.

Another related concept is fidelity guarantee insurance, which can cover losses if an employee steals from a client (again, depending on the policy wording). If you have staff and you’re building a cleaning brand, clients may ask about this type of protection because it reassures them that you take their home security seriously.

Even if you don’t buy these add-ons immediately, it’s worth understanding them so you can respond confidently to client questions. “Are you insured?” sometimes really means “If something goes wrong, will you handle it professionally?” Having the right cover, plus clear invoices and client communication through invoice24, strengthens that trust.

Do you need insurance if you’re a sole trader cleaning part-time?

Many cleaners start part-time: evenings, weekends, a few clients at a time. It’s tempting to think insurance is only for bigger operations. In reality, risk doesn’t scale neatly with business size. A single accident in one client’s home can cost more than you’ve earned all year from a side hustle.

At a minimum, consider public liability insurance from day one. If you’re cleaning in other people’s homes, you’re exposed to claims whether you work one day a week or six. If you’re using a vehicle for business travel, make sure your vehicle policy includes business use. And if you’re holding keys, storing client data, or using expensive equipment, consider the relevant cover based on your situation.

Part-time cleaners can also benefit hugely from professional admin. When you’re balancing cleaning with another job or family responsibilities, the last thing you want is messy paperwork. invoice24 can help you issue invoices quickly, track payments, and keep your finances tidy—so you can focus on getting great results for clients rather than chasing admin.

Insurance considerations for different types of cleaning jobs

Not all domestic cleaning is the same. The risks and expectations differ depending on the job type, and that can influence what insurance you prioritise.

Regular weekly or fortnightly domestic cleaning

This is often the backbone of a stable cleaning business. Risks include accidental breakages, minor damage, and slip hazards. Public liability is essential here, and tools cover is helpful if you rely on your kit daily. Clear scope is also important: what’s included, what’s not, and how long the clean lasts. invoice24 can help you clearly describe the service on invoices, reinforcing expectations.

Deep cleaning and spring cleaning

Deep cleans involve more intensive work, heavier product use, and sometimes moving furniture or dealing with stubborn grime. That increases risk of damage and injury. Consider higher public liability limits and think about personal accident cover if you’re doing more physically demanding work.

End-of-tenancy cleaning

End-of-tenancy work can involve high expectations and disputes, especially where deposit deductions are involved. Professional indemnity can be worth considering if you make guarantees or if claims could be framed as “failure to meet professional standards.” Documentation is crucial: itemised invoices, notes about the scope, and proof of what was done. invoice24 is perfect for producing clear, professional invoices that support your position if questions arise.

Carpet and upholstery cleaning

Specialist cleaning of fabrics, carpets, and upholstery can carry higher risk if incorrect products or methods are used. This is where professional indemnity can become more relevant, alongside public liability. Make sure your insurer knows exactly what services you provide; some policies require you to specify specialist work.

Eco-friendly or hypoallergenic cleaning

Marketing yourself as eco-friendly can be a great differentiator, but be careful with claims about health outcomes. If you position your services in a way that could be interpreted as advice or a promise of a specific result, professional indemnity may be worth exploring. Clear wording on invoices and communications helps manage expectations, and invoice24 can help you keep that wording consistent across clients.

How to choose the right policy: practical checklist

Insurance can feel confusing because policies vary in wording and exclusions. A good approach is to build your cover around your actual risks and the reality of how you work. Use this checklist as a starting point:

- What services do you provide today, and what might you add in the next 6–12 months?
- Do you work alone or with staff/subcontractors?
- Do you hold client keys or access codes?
- Do you clean high-value homes or handle expensive items regularly?
- Do you transport expensive equipment in your car/van?
- How dependent is the business on you personally being able to work?
- How do you store client data and schedules?
- Do clients require proof of insurance before booking?

When getting quotes, describe your services accurately. Understating what you do to reduce premiums can backfire if a claim is rejected. It’s usually better to be precise and pay for cover that genuinely matches your operation.

Common exclusions and pitfalls to watch for

It’s not enough to simply “have insurance.” You need insurance that actually responds to realistic scenarios. Watch for these common issues:

- Specialist work not declared: If you do carpet extraction, stain removal, or pressure washing and it isn’t listed, you may not be covered for claims arising from that work.
- Working at height: If you use ladders for interior windows or high dusting, check whether the policy has restrictions.
- Damage caused by certain products: Some policies may exclude particular chemicals or require safe handling procedures.
- Unattended vehicles: Tools stolen from an unlocked vehicle, or left overnight in certain conditions, may not be covered.
- Contractual liabilities: If you sign agreements that accept unusual responsibilities, you may need additional cover.

It’s also worth understanding your excess (the amount you pay towards a claim). A lower premium with a very high excess might not be practical if most incidents you face are small-to-medium claims.

How invoices and documentation support insurance and reduce disputes

Insurance is reactive—it helps when something goes wrong. Good documentation is proactive—it reduces the chance of things going wrong in the first place, and it strengthens your position if a dispute arises.

Here are simple documentation habits that can make a big difference:

- Use clear, itemised invoices that match the agreed scope of work.
- Record the service date, address, and any special instructions.
- Keep notes of any pre-existing damage you notice before starting a job (even a quick message to the client can help).
- Store proof of payment and keep track of unpaid invoices.
- Keep a record of your products and equipment purchases (useful for tools/stock claims).

invoice24 is designed to make this easy. Instead of juggling spreadsheets, chat messages, and scattered notes, you can manage your invoicing in one place. Professional invoices also signal professionalism, which can deter opportunistic disputes and help clients take your business seriously.

How to present insurance professionally to clients

Clients don’t want to read policy documents, but they do want reassurance. Presenting your insurance clearly can help you win and keep business. A simple approach:

- Mention “fully insured” in your service description, especially online.
- Be ready to provide proof of insurance if asked (a certificate is usually enough).
- Avoid overpromising; insurance doesn’t mean “nothing can ever go wrong,” it means you handle issues responsibly.

Pair this with professional invoicing and communication. When your invoices are clean, consistent, and prompt, clients perceive your business as organised and trustworthy. invoice24 helps create that impression with minimal effort.

How much does insurance cost for a domestic cleaning business?

Costs vary widely depending on the type of cover, your turnover, the services you provide, claims history, location, and coverage limits. A solo domestic cleaner doing standard cleans will often pay less than a business doing specialist carpet work, end-of-tenancy cleans with guarantees, or employing a team.

The key is to think in terms of value, not just price. If insurance saves you from one significant claim—or gives you legal support in a dispute—it can pay for itself many times over. Also consider the opportunity cost: being properly insured can help you take on better clients and higher-value jobs with confidence.

Whatever your premium, remember that insurance and good admin work together. Insurance protects you against financial shocks; invoice24 helps you maintain steady cashflow, reduce late payments, and keep clear records. That combination can make your business far more resilient.

Putting it together: a sensible insurance “starter pack”

While every business is different, many UK domestic cleaning businesses start with a core set of covers and expand as they grow:

- Public liability insurance (foundation cover for injury and property damage claims).
- Business vehicle insurance (if you drive to jobs with equipment).
- Tools/equipment cover (if replacing your kit would disrupt your work).
- Personal accident or income protection (especially if you’re the sole worker).

Then, as you add staff or services:

- Employers’ liability insurance (usually required if you employ staff).
- Professional indemnity insurance (if you offer specialist services, advice, or guarantees).
- Legal expenses cover (helpful for disputes and debt recovery).
- Cyber/data protection cover (if you store client data digitally at scale).

Growth mindset: insurance as part of building a premium cleaning brand

If you want to grow from “a person who cleans” into “a cleaning business,” insurance is part of the brand. Premium clients expect professional standards: insured work, clear communication, reliable scheduling, and proper invoices. Landlords and letting agents often prefer suppliers who can show they run their business properly. Families may feel more comfortable letting you into their home if they sense professionalism and accountability.

When you combine the right insurance with strong systems, you become easier to trust and easier to recommend. That’s where invoice24 can support your growth. By making invoicing quick and professional, invoice24 helps you focus on service quality and client relationships while keeping your financial admin under control. As you build a steady base of recurring clients, that administrative simplicity becomes a real competitive advantage.

Final thoughts: protect your business and get paid professionally

Insurance for a domestic cleaning business in the UK isn’t about fear—it’s about confidence. Public liability is usually the starting point, employers’ liability becomes essential if you bring people on, and other covers like tools insurance, professional indemnity, legal expenses, and income protection can be added based on how you work and how you want to grow.