You’re halfway through a job, blasting grime off a customer’s driveway when – crack! – a rock flies and chips their window. It’s an honest mistake, but one that could cost you hundreds (or more) if you’re not insured.
Look, accidents happen. That’s not a failure – it’s just business. The trick is being ready for them. You’re building something great with your pressure washing business. Let’s make sure it’s protected with the right coverage.
What you’ll learn:
- How insurance protects your work and equipment
- What to look for in a policy + the types of coverage you need
- How much insurance costs (surprisingly affordable) + how to get covered in ten minutes or less
1. Start Your Online Quote
Getting pressure washing insurance should be just as efficient as your next job. With Insurance Canopy, starting your online quote only takes a few minutes.
Once you’re in, the online form walks you through step by step. It’s mobile-friendly and built with small business owners in mind, so you can fill it out from your phone between job sites or before your next appointment.
2. Tell Us What You Do
We start by asking for a quick description of your work so your coverage aligns with your services. We’ll ask a few business basics:
- Legal structure: Choose your structure (e.g., individual professional or business / franchise owner). This helps us determine how your policy is written and who’s covered.
- Services provided: Tell us if you focus on driveways, decks, commercial properties, vehicles, roofs, etc. Your services impact the coverage options and risk levels available.
- Estimated annual revenue: Share your expected yearly gross revenue. This helps calculate your exposure and determine fair pricing.
3. Build a Policy That Works for You
No two pressure washing businesses are the same. That’s why you’ll get to tailor your policy to fit your operation size, the type of work you perform, and the kind of contracts you take on.
Our standard liability policy is often enough for small pressure washing services, but if you use commercial vehicles, employ workers, or need extra equipment protection, you can add the right extras in just a few clicks.
Pro Tip: Wondering how much pressure washing insurance costs? Learn what affects the cost – and how affordable it is!
Essential Coverage
Every pressure washing business should carry general liability insurance. It protects you from third-party claims, such as if a client’s property is damaged or a passerby is injured while you’re on site.
For example, if water from your pressure washer seeps into a business’s entryway and causes a slip, this coverage helps with medical costs and legal fees. It’s the most requested type of insurance and is often required for jobs.
Add-on Coverage Options
Depending on your setup, you may want to include extra protections. You can easily add:
- Tools and equipment insurance (aka inland marine insurance) covers repair or replacement costs if your equipment gets damaged or stolen on the job or in transit.
- Workers compensation is required in most states if you have employees. It helps cover medical expenses and missed wages if a worker is injured while working.
- Janitorial bonds offer protection in case an employee is accused of theft while working inside a client’s property.
- Commercial auto insurance covers business-owned vehicles used to haul your pressure washer and tools. Personal auto insurance usually excludes business use.
- Cyber liability insurance covers you in the event of a cyberattack or data breach.
- Additional insureds let you add landlords, clients, or partners to your policy as required. You can also assign certificate holders who get a digital copy of your Certificate of Insurance (COI) – making contracts and client onboarding quick and seamless.
Each of these add-ons helps close gaps that general liability alone doesn’t cover.
4. Tell Us More About You
After building your policy, we’ll collect a few more details to finalize the application.
- Personal info: We’ll ask for your name, email address, and business address. We use this information to send your policy documents, certificates, and renewal reminders.
- Business details: You’ll provide your legal business name, contact number, and a description of your services. If you’ve had any prior claims, you’ll note that here, along with your preferred coverage start date.
- Eligibility questions: We’ll ask about things like hazardous materials, roof work, or high payroll / revenue to make sure your business qualifies for this program.
It’s all quick and straightforward to help ensure your coverage actually fits what you do.
5. Review and Purchase Your Policy
Once your details are entered, you’ll see a personalized quote. This includes all selected coverage types, policy limits, and pricing broken down clearly.
You can adjust your limits, add endorsements, or remove coverage types before purchasing.
When you’re ready, complete your payment to activate your policy. You’ll receive a confirmation email immediately and have access to your COI in seconds.
What to Look for in Pressure Washing Business Insurance
Before you click “purchase” on your policy, make sure it checks a few key boxes. First, you want something affordable – insurance shouldn’t drain your profit margin. Next, look for coverage that’s legit and meets client requirements.
Many property managers or commercial clients ask for proof of general liability insurance before hiring you, so your policy must be recognized and accepted.
You’ll also want quick access to your Certificate of Insurance (COI). Some jobs pop up fast, and having instant proof of coverage helps you close deals without delays. Lastly, ensure your insurance can scale with you, as your policy should be able to grow with your business.
Protect Your Pressure Washing Business Today!
With fast online quotes, customizable coverage, and instant access to your documents, getting insured is just another quick task on your to-do list.
Protect your equipment, reputation, and income — and spend more time focusing on what you do best — providing stellar services to your clients.
Common Questions About How to Get Insurance for Pressure Washing Businesses
Do I need insurance if I only work part-time?
Yes. Even part-time pressure washing involves liability. Insurance protects you from expensive lawsuits and client disputes, whether you work five hours a week or fifty.
How much does pressure washing insurance cost?
The cost depends on your services, location, and risk level. The lowest cost for general liability insurance through Insurance Canopy starts at $39 per month.
What types of coverage do pressure washers need?
Most businesses start with general liability. You may also need tools and equipment coverage, workers compensation, or commercial auto, depending on how you operate.
Is pressure washing considered high-risk for insurance?
Some pressure washing services, like roof cleaning or working above certain heights, are considered higher risk. These may be excluded or require custom underwriting.
What are the most common exclusions to pressure washing insurance?
Most policies exclude higher-risk jobs outside routine pressure washing. These exclusions help keep your coverage focused, affordable, and tailored to your business. Common exclusions include:
- Exterior work performed above three stories
- Pressure washing done from a ladder, lift, or scaffold (coverage only applies to work performed from the ground level)
- Projects that involve disaster recovery or debris removal
