Being bonded adds a layer of protection that clients value. Understanding how to get bonded for a cleaning business helps you stand out from competitors and access opportunities that require bonding.
This guide explains what bonding means, whether you need it, and how to get it.
What Does “Bonded” Mean?
A surety bond is a three-party agreement. The bonding company guarantees to your clients that you’ll fulfill your obligations. If you fail to do so (through theft, fraud, or incomplete work), the bond pays the client.
Think of it as insurance for your clients against your bad behavior. It provides financial recourse if something goes wrong.
| Protection Type | Who It Protects | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| General liability insurance | You and clients | Accidents and property damage |
| Surety bond | Clients | Theft, fraud, unfinished work |
| Workers’ comp insurance | Employees | Employee injuries |
Bonding and insurance serve different purposes. Most cleaning businesses benefit from having both.
Do You Need to Be Bonded?
Bonding isn’t legally required for cleaning businesses in most areas. However, it’s practically required in certain situations.
Commercial clients often require bonding before signing contracts. Property management companies frequently require bonded cleaners. High-end residential clients prefer bonded services. Government contracts typically require bonding.
Even when not required, being bonded differentiates you from competitors. Marketing yourself as “bonded and insured” signals professionalism and trustworthiness.
Types of Bonds for Cleaning Businesses
Several bond types apply to cleaning businesses.
Janitorial service bonds (also called cleaning service bonds) are the most common for cleaning businesses. They protect clients against employee theft and dishonesty. Coverage typically ranges from $5,000 to $25,000.
Fidelity bonds protect against employee theft specifically. If an employee steals from a client, the bond covers the loss. This is particularly important when your employees have access to client homes and businesses.
Contract bonds guarantee you’ll complete contracted work. Commercial clients sometimes require these for large contracts.
License and permit bonds are required by some localities as a condition of business licensing. Check your local requirements.
How to Get Bonded: The Process
Getting bonded is straightforward and affordable.
Start by determining what bond you need. For most cleaning businesses, a janitorial service bond provides appropriate coverage. Commercial clients sometimes specify the bond type and amount they require.
Next, gather your information. Bonding companies will ask for your business information including legal name, address, and EIN. They’ll want personal information for owners including Social Security numbers and addresses. They’ll review your business history such as years in operation and claims history. Some may check credit scores of owners.
Then get quotes from multiple bonding companies. Insurance companies often offer bonds alongside liability coverage. Specialty bonding companies may offer better rates for cleaning businesses. Online bonding services provide quick quotes and easy purchasing.
Complete the application by filling out forms and providing required documentation. Review terms carefully before signing.
Pay and receive your bond. Most bonds are issued within 24-48 hours. You’ll receive a bond certificate to show clients.
Bond Costs
Janitorial bonds are surprisingly affordable.
Bond premiums are typically 1-5% of the bond amount annually. A $10,000 bond costs roughly $100-500 per year. A $25,000 bond costs roughly $250-1,250 per year.
Your actual cost depends on the bond amount, your credit history, business history and claims, and the bonding company.
Owners with good credit and clean business histories get the best rates. Those with poor credit or previous claims pay higher premiums or may need to provide collateral.
What Bonding Doesn’t Cover
Understanding bond limitations prevents misunderstandings.
Bonds don’t cover accidental damage—that’s what general liability insurance is for. Bonds don’t cover injuries—that’s what liability insurance and workers’ comp cover. Bonds don’t protect you—they protect your clients from you. Bonds have limits—claims exceeding the bond amount aren’t fully covered.
Most cleaning businesses need both bonding and insurance for complete protection.
Using Your Bonded Status
Once bonded, leverage it in your marketing:
- Include “Bonded and Insured” on all marketing materials
- Mention bonding when responding to inquiries
- Highlight bonding in commercial proposals
- Display bond certificates on your website
- Include bonding in your Google Business Profile
Being bonded signals trustworthiness. Make sure potential clients know about it.
Maintaining Your Bond
Bonds require ongoing maintenance. Pay renewal premiums on time, usually annually. Update the bonding company about business changes including address, ownership, or structure changes. Report any claims promptly. Maintain good standing by avoiding claims, paying premiums, and keeping business information current.
Letting your bond lapse creates gaps in coverage and can damage client relationships.
Your Bonded Business Starts Here
You now understand how to get bonded for a cleaning business—the types of bonds, the process, and costs involved.
Bonding builds client trust and opens doors to commercial opportunities. The modest annual cost pays dividends in credibility and access.
At the Cleaning Business Institute, our courses cover bonding, insurance, and all aspects of professional cleaning business operations. We help you understand what protection you need and how to get it.
Get comprehensive guidance. Take our free Cleaning Business Quiz. We’ll analyze your situation and recommend the right training. Complete the quiz and unlock a limited-time offer saving you over 50%.
Build trust with proper bonding.