Do pressure washings need insurance?
Yes — in nearly every U.S. state. Most states require licensed pressure washings to carry Commercial Auto, General Liability before they can operate. Here's what to buy, what it costs, and which carriers serve the trade.
Coverage checklist
| Coverage | Requirement | Annual cost |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial AutoCA | Required | $1100.00–$2600.00/yr |
| General LiabilityGL | Required | $440.00–$880.00/yr |
| Inland Marine / Tools & EquipmentIM | Recommended | $250.00–$900.00/yr |
| Business Owner's PolicyBOP | Optional | $500.00–$1500.00/yr |
| Commercial PropertyCP | Optional | $500.00–$2200.00/yr |
| Professional Liability / E&OPL/E&O | Optional | $500.00–$1200.00/yr |
Cost breakdown
- ·Number of work vehicles
- ·Driving radius
- ·Vehicle type
Required for work vehicles; personal auto policies exclude business use.
- ·Crew size
- ·Residential vs. commercial
- ·Revenue
Required by most trade licenses and general contractors before you can bid work.
- ·Tool value
- ·Vehicle storage
Covers tools and equipment stolen from a job site or vehicle.
- ·Shop value
Worth it if you lease a shop or store significant inventory.
- ·Building ownership
Only if you own or lease a shop/warehouse.
- ·Design/engineering work
- ·Contract values
Relevant if you provide design or engineering specs, not just installation.
Best carriers for pressure washing
Frequently asked questions
Do pressure washings need insurance?+
Yes. The main policies pressure washings need are general liability and commercial auto.
How much does pressure washing insurance cost?+
A typical pressure washing can expect to pay general liability runs $440–$880 per year, professional liability $500–$1200, and commercial auto $1100–$2600 per vehicle. Total annual premiums for a small operation usually range from $1,500 to $8,000 depending on coverage choices, revenue, and number of employees.
What does general liability cover for a pressure washing?+
General liability covers third-party bodily injury and property damage — for example, if a customer is injured on site or you accidentally damage a client's property. It does not cover your own injuries or professional errors (those need workers' comp and professional liability).
Do pressure washings need professional liability insurance?+
In many cases, yes — professional liability covers claims that a mistake or omission in your work caused a client financial harm. It's worth considering if you have contracts with defined deliverables.
Does my personal auto insurance cover my pressure washing business?+
No — personal auto policies typically exclude business use. If you drive a vehicle for work (transporting equipment, visiting clients, making deliveries), you need a commercial auto policy.
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