Workers' Comp Insurance for Cleaning / Janitorial Businesses in Pennsylvania

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 Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania workers' compensation market is governed by PCRB, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.27 per $100 of payroll.

Pennsylvania requirements for cleaning / janitorial businesses

When required: Required for any employer with at least one employee, including part-time.

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors are exempt unless they elect.

Owner / officer exclusion: Sole officers may exempt; LLC members may exclude.

Cleaning / Janitorial class codes used in Pennsylvania

Why cleaning / janitorial workers' comp is tricky in Pennsylvania

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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania to other major markets:

Other industries in Pennsylvania

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