The following is a guest article by Insurance Canopy, part of our ongoing series on insurance for Airbnb cleaning businesses.
The Importance of Property Damage Coverage for Rental Cleaners
Third-party property damage is included in the base cleaning liability insurance policy every short-term rental cleaner needs. Because no matter how careful you are, accidents can happen!
Find out what it covers, how much it costs, and ways you can lessen your chances of having to file a claim. We’ll also explain the types of claims it doesn’t cover — and what types of insurance you might want to add to your plan.
What Is Property Damage Coverage?
Property damage coverage is insurance designed to help cleaning professionals avoid paying out of pocket for accidents that happen while they’re working. If you’re cleaning an Airbnb or vacation rental and something gets damaged — like a piece of furniture, appliances, or personal belongings of the host — this coverage can step in to cover repair or replacement costs.
This protection is especially important for cleaners working in short-term rentals where high guest turnover can lead to tight cleaning schedules and increased chances for accidents. It provides peace of mind, knowing that if an unintentional mishap occurs, you’re protected from big financial hits that could otherwise come out of your pocket.

Why Is It Essential for Short-Term Rental Cleaners?
Cleaning short-term rentals can be a rewarding experience, but comes with its own set of challenges. Not only does property damage coverage protect your business’ bottom line financially — it’s also commonly required for you to land cleaning contracts.
Risks Associated With Cleaning Short-Term Rentals
Cleaning short-term rentals comes with inherent risks cleaners should be aware of. Some vacation properties have valuable items, delicate decor, and the chance of unexpected accidents. Common risks include:
- Accidental breakage: It’s easy to accidentally knock over or break furniture, glassware, or decorative pieces.
- Spills and stains: Cleaning products can sometimes cause stains on carpets, floors, or upholstery, which can lead to pricey repairs or cleanups.
Examples of Common Accidents and Claims Occur
Let’s look at some common accidents that can cause property damage (and end up in claims) during cleaning:
- Broken items: Cleaning a bit too hard or with the wrong tool can accidentally break delicate items like a vase or picture frame.
- Water damage: Spills from mopping or an overflowing sink can lead to water damage, especially in areas like the kitchen or bathroom.
- Stains on linens: Using the wrong cleaning product could leave stains on bed linens or towels, which might need to be replaced.
- Damage to electronics: Cleaning around electronics without extra care can lead to accidental drops or damage to expensive devices.
- Scratches on surfaces: Over-scrubbing or using abrasive cleaning tools can leave scratches on countertops, tables, or floors, resulting in costly repairs.
- Window damage: Cleaning windows or mirrors with the wrong products or too much force can lead to cracks or scratches, which can be expensive to fix.
How Much Does Property Damage Coverage Cost?
On average, this insurance can run about $580 per year. Thankfully, there are more affordable options out there for short-term rental cleaners!
For instance, with Insurance Canopy your cost for cleaning business insurance starts at $430 a year (or $38.33 a month) for a policy with $500,000 per incident and $1 million per year in coverage. It’s a great balance of solid protection and budget-friendly pricing, giving you the confidence to tackle your cleaning jobs without worry. How to Obtain Property Damage Coverage
Now that you understand its importance, here’s a simple guide to help you through the process of obtaining property damage coverage:
Determine Your Coverage Needs
Before diving into insurance options, take time to assess your specific needs, including your budget:
- Coverage limits: This is the amount insurance will pay per incident and per policy term. Think about the types of properties you clean and the typical value of items in those spaces, as well as limits you may be contractually required to meet.
- Deductibles: This is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. Higher deductibles could mean lower premiums — but might put you in a tight spot if a mishap occurs.
- Coverage gaps: Cleaning liability insurance is designed to cover third-party bodily injury or property damage claims, but that’s not the only risk that could cause loss to your business. Consider the value of protecting your supplies and equipment (inland marine), adding cyber liability, or increasing the limits of your policy.
Compare Quotes and Policies
Carefully review the terms and conditions of each policy, including what’s covered and what’s excluded. This will help you avoid surprises down the road.
Comparing different policies can help you find the best coverage options at a good price. But remember — cost shouldn’t be your only concern. Take time to read customer reviews, research the level of customer service available, and choose a plan that offers the best value as far as pricing, customer care, and coverage.
If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to reach out to the insurance providers. It’s a great way to see if a provider offers good customer service in addition to making sure you fully understand the coverage you’re considering.
Get Covered
Once you’ve found a policy that meets your needs, it’s time to finalize your coverage! Complete the necessary paperwork and make your first payment to get protected so you can focus on your cleaning work with confidence.

6 Tips for Preventing Property Damage (and Claims!)
A cleaner knocks a hole in a wall while moving equipment around a vacation rental. An expensive piece of artwork is ruined after a cleaning solution gets sprayed on an adjacent window. A bottle of cleaning solution accidentally gets knocked over, and now you’re facing a claim for repairing a large section of carpet.
Accidents can happen — but there are things you can do to lessen the risk of property damage occurring from your work as well as any claims you might face as a result!
1. Inspect Before You Clean
Documenting the state of the property before you start can protect you from being held responsible for damages that happened before your visit.
Before diving into your cleaning routine, take a moment to inspect the property thoroughly. Look for any existing damage, like scratched floors or broken fixtures. Not only does this give you a clear picture of the property’s condition, it also allows you to report any issues to the property owner right away.
2. Use the Right Tools
Harsh chemicals can be tough on surfaces, while the wrong tools might scratch or tarnish furniture. Choose high-quality, purpose-specific cleaning supplies that get the job done without causing harm.
For instance, opt for microfiber cloths for dusting and steer clear of abrasive scrubbers on delicate finishes. Being well-equipped can minimize the risk of accidental damage.
3. Chat with Property Owners
Communication is essential for keeping properties in top shape and meeting client expectations. Have a friendly chat with property owners about their cleaning preferences, any areas of concern, and recommended cleaning procedures. Use a comprehensive short-term rental cleaning checklist to document necessary tasks. This partnership helps you understand their cleanliness standards and any past issues they’ve faced with guests.
4. Train Your Team
If you lead a team of cleaners, thorough training is crucial for reducing property damage. Make sure everyone understands the cleaning processes, how to use products safely, and the importance of being careful with items on the property.
Regular training sessions can reinforce best practices, like gently handling delicate decorations and carefully arranging furniture. A well-trained team will work efficiently and thoughtfully, cutting down on the chances of accidents.
5. Document Everything
Keeping detailed records is vital for accountability and protection. Take photos and jot down notes about the property’s condition when you first arrive, especially if you notice any damages. After each cleaning, document any incidents or new damages you discover.
This way, if any questions come up later about the property’s condition, your thorough documentation can provide clarity and protect you and your team from any undue blame. It safeguards your reputation and builds trust with the property owners you work with.
6. Utilize Turno for Streamlined Management
To help keep everything organized and efficient, use Turno! This cleaning management tool automates the scheduling and payment processes for vacation rental cleanings, making your job a lot easier.
With Turno, you can communicate seamlessly with hosts and property managers and ensure that cleanings are handled promptly and professionally. It’s a great way to put your cleaning management on autopilot, allowing you to focus more on delivering top-notch service to your clients!
To learn more, here are tips for running an efficient, successful short-term rental cleaning business.

What to Do If Damage Occurs
Even the most careful short-term rental cleaners can encounter accidents from time to time. If damage does occur, here’s a guide to help you navigate the situation with ease:
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first: take a deep breath! Accidents happen, and panicking won’t help.
Calmly assess the situation and evaluate the extent of the damage. Determine what was affected and whether it poses any safety risks. This initial step allows you to gather your thoughts and plan your next moves effectively.
Document the Damage
Once you’ve assessed the situation, it’s time to document everything:
- Take clear photographs of the damaged items or areas from multiple angles.
- Note details about how the damage occurred.
- Make a list of the items involved.
This documentation is essential for providing a clear picture to the property owner (and, if necessary, for filing an insurance claim).
Notify the Property Owner
After documenting the damage, promptly notify the property owner about what happened. Turno’s problem reporting tool is built for quickly sharing information and photos about damage and other issues with the client.
Be honest and straightforward, explaining the situation and providing them with the documentation you gathered. Property owners appreciate transparency, and addressing the issue as soon as possible shows your professionalism and respect for their property.
File a Claim
If the damage is significant and you have insurance coverage, it may be necessary to file a claim.
Contact your insurance provider to report the incident and provide the documentation you collected. They will guide you through the claims process and help you understand what to expect moving forward. Follow their instructions carefully and respond promptly to any requests for additional information to ensure a smooth claims experience.
Learn and Move Forward
Finally, once the situation is under control, take a moment to reflect on what happened. Consider what could have been done differently to prevent the damage and how you can apply this knowledge in the future.
Learning from these experiences helps you grow as a professional and enhances your skills as a cleaner. After all, every challenge is an opportunity for improvement!

FAQs About Property Damage Coverage for Short-Term Cleaners
How often should I review my property damage coverage?
Review your property damage coverage at least once a year to be sure that you are protecting your business appropriately. You should also check your coverage whenever there are significant changes, such as new clients, increased property values, or changes in your cleaning services.
Are there exclusions in property damage coverage I should be aware of?
Yes, common exclusions often include damages resulting from wear and tear, intentional acts, mysterious losses, and natural disasters. Always read your policy carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.
Can I add additional insureds to my policy, and how does that work?
Yes, you can add qualified additional insureds to your coverage, such as property owners or managers. If you can manage your policy online, you can often do this from your account. If not, you’ll need to contact your insurance company for help.
Don’t Let Accidents Clean You Out!
Every cleaner deserves to work with peace of mind! With property damage coverage, you can tackle your cleaning tasks knowing you’re protected against the unexpected. Plus, by using Turno to streamline your cleaning services, you can focus even more on delivering exceptional service without the administrative hassle. So why wait? Take a proactive step today and get property damage coverage that fits your needs with a provider like Insurance Canopy. It’s simple, affordable, and gives you the protection to keep doing what you love—cleaning those beautiful spaces!
Disclaimer: The information provided here is only applicable to US-based cleaners. For specific insurance advice, please consult with your insurance representative.