Tools and Equipment Insurance for Cleaning Businesses
Every vacuum, sprayer, and carpet cleaner is essential to your cleaning business. If something gets damaged or stolen, it can disrupt your schedule and your income.
Tools and equipment insurance helps protect your cleaning gear so you can keep your business moving forward without missing a beat.
What Is Tools and Equipment Insurance for Cleaning Businesses?
Tools and equipment insurance (also known as inland marine insurance) is an optional add-on to cleaning business insurance that covers the items you rely on to provide your services. This includes vacuums, polishers, sprayers, and other professional cleaning tools that are transported between jobs or stored off-site.
It helps repair or replace your equipment if it’s stolen or damaged. Whether you’re a solo cleaner or manage a full crew, this policy helps reduce the financial stress of unexpected issues.
What Does It Cover?
Inland marine coverage applies to cleaning tools that are mobile or stored off-premises. Examples of covered items include things like:
- Commercial vacuums (upright, backpack, wet/dry)
- Floor scrubbers and polishers
- Carpet cleaners and extractors
- Pressure washers
- Mop buckets and wringers
- Hedge trimmers
- Steam cleaners
- Handheld sprayers (for disinfectants or cleaners)
- Portable cleaning caddies
- Portable foggers or electrostatic sprayers
- Cleaning chemicals and solutions (must be securely stored)
Note: This policy covers mobile tools and equipment that move with you from job to job. It does not cover items permanently installed in buildings or tools attached to a company vehicle.
What Does It Not Cover?
While this policy offers broad coverage, it doesn’t include everything. Typically, tools and equipment insurance will not cover:
- Tools and equipment permanently affixed to a vehicle or building
- Vehicles used for business (you’ll need a commercial auto policy)
- Large machinery such as backhoes, cranes, or excavators
- Losses due to employee theft or intentional damage
- Damage from natural disasters like floods or earthquakes
- Wear and tear or equipment breakdown from regular use
- Items damaged during overseas shipping or air transport
- Buildings or permanently installed fixtures (covered under commercial property insurance)
What Are the Coverage Limits?
Your policy’s coverage limit is the highest amount it will pay for a single claim. With Insurance Canopy, you can select from $1,000 ($3,000 aggregate), $2,000 ($6,000 aggregate), and $5,000 ($10,000 aggregate). Each policy comes with a $250 deductible.
How it works: If your $3,000 pressure washer is stolen, you’d pay the $250 deductible, and your policy could cover the remaining $2,750, up to your selected limit.
The higher your policy limit, the more protection you’ll have for your essential cleaning equipment.
What Can Be Covered With Each Limit?
The policy limit you choose determines how much your insurance can pay for repairs or replacements if your cleaning equipment is damaged or stolen. Solo cleaners with basic tools may only need a lower limit, while larger crews or companies using commercial-grade machines often require more coverage.
Use the chart below to help match your equipment’s value to the right protection level.
| Limits / Aggregate | What It Can Cover | Estimated Total Value |
|---|---|---|
|
$1,000 / $3,000 |
Handheld vacuum, microfiber mops, cleaning caddy, spray bottles, scrub brushes, small tools, and essential cleaning supplies |
~$800 – $1,000 |
|
$2,000 / $6,000 |
Upright vacuum, steam mop, portable carpet cleaner, mop buckets, extended tool kit, protective gear, and basic chemical inventory |
~$1,800 – $2,000 |
|
$5,000 / $10,000 |
Backpack vacuum, pressure washer, floor buffer, fogger, electrostatic sprayer, full set of tools, cleaning chemicals, and mobile transport containers |
~$4,500 – $5,000 |
Tip: Not sure which limit to choose? Estimate your equipment’s total replacement cost, then match it to the right coverage level.
Do Cleaning Businesses Need Equipment Insurance?
Yes. Cleaning businesses rely on expensive, hard-working gear to complete jobs efficiently. Jobs may be delayed or canceled if a key piece of equipment goes missing or stops working.
Tools and equipment insurance is a smart choice for cleaning professionals who:
- Use high-value or specialized cleaning equipment
- Transport cleaning tools and supplies to and from job sites
- Rely on mobile setups like carts or detachable storage units
- Work in locations where theft, vandalism, or damage is a risk
Although you might not be legally required to carry this insurance, some clients may list it as a contract requirement. It can also help you qualify for more commercial cleaning jobs or government contracts.
Plus, having this policy shows clients you’re professional and prepared, which is an advantage in a competitive industry.
Cleaning Professions We Cover
Common Equipment Risks Cleaning Businesses Face
Cleaners rely on mobile, high-use tools that face unique cleaning risks that general liability policies may not fully cover. Inland marine insurance is designed to protect your gear from:
- Theft from job sites or vehicles: Cleaning equipment left in locked vans, carts, or trailers during breaks or overnight can be a target for theft
- Damage during transport or setup: Vacuums, floor machines, and other gear can get dropped, tipped over, or damaged while being loaded, unloaded, or moved between job sites
- Vandalism or break-ins: Equipment stored in mobile units or temporary job site storage can be tampered with, damaged, or stolen outside of work hours
Real Tools and Equipment Claims Cleaners Face
Machines get damaged and equipment gets stolen. It happens in a flash, and it can halt your entire day. Without cleaning equipment insurance, you’re left paying for repairs or replacements out of pocket.
A commercial vacuum gets stolen from a van overnight
You leave your van locked outside an apartment complex. By morning, your $1,200 commercial vacuum is gone. With insurance, you’re covered, as long as the vehicle was locked and you can provide proof of theft, like a police report.
A pressure washer falls during unloading
While unloading at a client’s location, your pressure washer slips off the ramp and cracks a key component. Equipment insurance covers accidental damage during work-related handling and transit.
A floor buffer gets vandalized in a locked trailer
You store your floor buffer in a locked trailer overnight. Someone breaks in and damages your machine beyond repair. Without coverage, you’re on the hook for a costly replacement.
How Much Does Tools and Equipment Insurance Cost?
Cleaning equipment insurance through Insurance Canopy starts at just $40 per year, making it one of the most affordable ways to protect your tools. On average, most cleaning professionals nationwide pay around $170 per year, depending on the value of their gear and coverage needs.
Several factors influence your premium, including:
- Type of cleaning services you provide
- Total value of the equipment you want to insure
- Claims history
- Chosen coverage limit
A small annual cost can help you avoid hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unexpected equipment repair or replacement expenses.
| Limits (Occurrence / Aggregate) | Annual Cost | Deductible |
|---|---|---|
|
$1,000 / $3,000 |
$40 |
$250 |
|
$2,000 / $6,000 |
$55 |
$250 |
|
$5,000 / $10,000 |
$60 |
$250 |
How to Get Tools and Equipment Insurance
Adding tools and equipment to your cleaning business insurance is quick and simple.
You have two easy ways to add coverage:
- Add it when purchasing cleaning business insurance: When applying for a new policy, add your tools and equipment coverage limit at checkout.
- From your online dashboard: Already insured? Log in to your account and add tools and equipment coverage in just a few clicks.
After you check out, your Certificate of Insurance (COI) will be ready to download immediately.
135,000+ Small Businesses Trust Insurance Canopy
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Steve Monreal
July 11, 2025I needed a portable policy as a yoga instructor. I found this company in an online search. Called and got details from them, was quite surprised at how affordable... Read More
Jamie Calaway
July 4, 2025Very easy & quick experience. We got insurance in no time with no hassle. Thank you!
Robert Earnest
July 4, 2025 -
I am glad I went with them. I needed a last minute policy to cover an event I was doing and they had exactly what I needed at a... Read More
Deloris Pacheco
June 27, 2025great little company, with fair pricing, for entertainers who need occasional coverage. however, they have long hold times to speak to an agent, and their customer service left a little something... Read More
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June 18, 2025 -
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June 18, 2025Very user friendly platform. Multiple options. Very good pricing. Needed liability insurance in order to secure a very good paying event for my solo tribute show. Was set up within... Read More
Michael Riley
June 18, 2025Would have 5 starts, but not right now. This is the first time I have ever had to pay for an additional insured ever in 20 year's. They either have... Read More
Anthony Burgess
June 18, 2025 -
Representative Sarah was very helpful. Walked me through every step and not to mention the price even matched the service! Would recommend to any and everyone.
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May 18, 2025 -
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May 18, 2025I'm a new customer/policy holder. Super easy online application and policy setup. Very competitive rates. Certificate of insurance generated and received (PDF) immediately once method of payment established. Great service... Read More
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April 18, 2025 -
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April 18, 2025I have not had any issues over the years with Insurance Canopy, with canceling and renewing, I have found the cost of coverage in line or better then some. I have... Read More
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March 18, 2025 -
I have them for 3 years this year seems price went up . I have never had to use them for a claim so really couldn’t tell you about that!
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January 30, 2025 -
This insurance has helped me secure events with my corporate and local government clients. They have great customer service and are always willing to help.
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January 23, 2025Representative was clear & concise in explaining specifics of the policy. Cost of policy very reasonable.
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January 16, 2025I’m very happy with my purchase of liability insurance for a one-off event. I was even able to edit the policy after it had been issued with the help of... Read More
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January 6, 2025
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Thank you so much
Steve Monreal
July 11, 2025 -
Very easy & quick experience. We got insurance in no time with no hassle. Thank you!
Robert Earnest
July 4, 2025 -
I needed a portable policy as a yoga instructor. I found this company in an online search. Called and got details from them, was quite surprised at how affordable... Read More
Jamie Calaway
July 4, 2025 -
I am glad I went with them. I needed a last minute policy to cover an event I was doing and they had exactly what I needed at a... Read More
Deloris Pacheco
June 27, 2025 -
great little company, with fair pricing, for entertainers who need occasional coverage. however, they have long hold times to speak to an agent, and their customer service left a little something... Read More
Gretje Angell
June 18, 2025 -
Representative Sarah was very helpful. Walked me through every step and not to mention the price even matched the service! Would recommend to any and everyone.
queenkiam
June 18, 2025 -
What a lovely experience I had with Insurance Canopy! Easy and fast sign up, great policy, matches my needs as a self-employed business owner. Highly recommend!
Masha Rusanov
June 18, 2025 -
Needed DJ insurance for Memorial Day weekend & was squared away within an hour for 2 events! Highly recommend
Jay Solis
June 18, 2025 -
Very user friendly platform. Multiple options. Very good pricing. Needed liability insurance in order to secure a very good paying event for my solo tribute show. Was set up within... Read More
Michael Riley
June 18, 2025 -
Would have 5 starts, but not right now. This is the first time I have ever had to pay for an additional insured ever in 20 year's. They either have... Read More
Anthony Burgess
June 18, 2025
Common Questions About Inland Marine Insurance
How much coverage do I need for my cleaning equipment?
Choose a limit that closely matches the total replacement value of your tools and machines. Add up what it would cost to replace everything you rely on to do your job (vacuums, sprayers, buffers, etc.) and select the coverage tier that best fits that value.
If you’re unsure, start with a basic inventory and aim slightly higher to allow for future purchases.
Do I need coverage if I rent or lease equipment?
Yes. Even if the equipment isn’t yours, you’re often contractually responsible for any damage or loss while it’s in your possession. Inland marine insurance helps cover repair or replacement costs if a leased tool is stolen, damaged in transit, or breaks down due to covered risks.
Can I insure tools stored at different job sites?
Yes. As long as your tools move with you and aren’t permanently installed, they can be covered — whether they’re in your van, a trailer, or temporarily left on-site.
How do I file a tools and equipment insurance claim?
Start by documenting the loss. Take clear photos of the damage or where the item was stolen, and file a police report if theft is involved. Then log into your account and file a claim with as much detail as possible, including receipts, serial numbers, or proof of ownership.
Once your claim is submitted, a claims adjuster will contact you to review the details, confirm coverage, and guide you through the next steps. They’ll let you know if anything else is needed and update you as your claim is processed.
Is there a deductible for tools and equipment insurance claims?
Yes. There’s a $250 deductible. That means you pay the first $250 of the claim, and insurance covers the rest, up to your policy limit.
Protect Your Cleaning Gear Before It’s Too Late – Get Covered Today!
Don’t let a stolen vacuum or broken machine derail your cleaning business. Protect your investment with tools and equipment insurance that covers theft, damage, and loss, so you never miss a job or a paycheck.
