Phoenix cleaning guide
How to tell if a house cleaner is insured
Hiring a cleaner who carries liability insurance protects you if something in your home gets damaged, or if someone is hurt while working. Many independent cleaners are not insured, and “insured” can mean different things — so here’s what it actually means, why it matters, and how to verify it before you hand over a key.
What “insured” actually means
For a cleaning business, “insured” usually means general liability insurance — a policy that pays if the cleaner damages your property (a broken TV, a scratched floor) or if someone is injured on the job. Some cleaners are also “bonded,” which is different: a bond helps cover you against theft. Larger companies may also carry workers’ compensation for their staff.
Why it matters
- Property damage — if an uninsured cleaner breaks something valuable, getting reimbursed can be difficult.
- Injuries — if someone is hurt in your home and isn’t covered, you could be exposed.
- Theft — bonding (separate from liability insurance) is what covers you if something goes missing.
How to verify a cleaner is insured
- Ask for a certificate of insurance (COI) — a one-page document from their insurer.
- Check that the policy is active and not expired.
- Confirm the business name on the certificate matches who you’re hiring.
- For bigger jobs, ask whether they’re also bonded and carry workers’ comp.
Red flags
- They can’t or won’t provide proof of insurance.
- The certificate is expired or in a different name.
- They pressure you to pay in full upfront, in cash, before any work.
How Guildry handles this
Every provider on Guildry verifies their identity and carries active liability insurance before they can take a single job — Guildry checks it during onboarding, so you don’t have to chase down a certificate yourself. Guildry is also the party you hire and stands behind the work.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a certificate of insurance (COI)?
- It’s a one-page summary from an insurer showing that a business has an active policy, the coverage amounts, and the dates. A reputable cleaner can provide one on request.
- Is being “bonded” the same as being insured?
- No. Insurance (general liability) covers property damage and injuries; a bond covers you against theft. Some cleaners are both; some are neither.
- What happens if a cleaner damages something?
- With an insured cleaner, their liability policy can cover it. With Guildry, providers carry insurance and Guildry stands behind the job, with a satisfaction guarantee on top.
- Are Guildry’s cleaners insured?
- Yes — active liability insurance is a requirement to join, verified during onboarding. Guildry is opening to Phoenix homeowners soon; join the waitlist to hire one.
Hire a vetted, guaranteed cleaner in Phoenix
Guildry is opening to Phoenix homeowners soon — vetted providers, payment protection, and a satisfaction guarantee on every job. Join the waitlist to be first to know.