Workers' Comp Insurance for Cleaning / Janitorial Businesses in California

Commercial janitorial services (NCCI 9014) and residential house cleaning (9170) face moderate rates driven primarily by lifting injuries, slip-and-falls, and chemical exposure. Window cleaning above ground level has its own (higher) code in California. The California workers' compensation market is governed by WCIRB, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.45 per $100 of payroll.

California requirements for cleaning / janitorial businesses

When required: Required for any employer with at least one employee — including roofing contractors with no employees other than the owner.

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors with no employees are exempt unless in roofing (5552) — roofers must have coverage even with no employees.

Owner / officer exclusion: Corporate officers and LLC members may exclude themselves with Form 2570.

Cleaning / Janitorial class codes used in California

Why cleaning / janitorial workers' comp is tricky in California

Cleaning services that include window washing above ground level, biohazard cleanup, or carpet/floor restoration all have separate higher-rated codes that should be properly split.

Tips for California cleaning businesses

• ✓ Stay under 1 story for window cleaning to keep base rate
• ✓ Document MSDS and chemical training
• ✓ Split residential (9170) and commercial (9014) revenue if applicable

Cleaning / Janitorial workers' comp in other states

Rates and requirements for cleaning businesses vary widely by state. Compare California to other major markets:

Other industries in California

California workers' comp rates and requirements for other common industries: