Workers' Comp Insurance for Cleaning / Janitorial Businesses in Wisconsin

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 Wisconsin. The Wisconsin workers' compensation market is governed by WCRB, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.13 per $100 of payroll.

Wisconsin requirements for cleaning / janitorial businesses

When required: Required for employers with 3+ employees, or any employer with payroll over $500 in any quarter.

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors are exempt unless they elect.

Owner / officer exclusion: Officers may be excluded.

Cleaning / Janitorial class codes used in Wisconsin

Why cleaning / janitorial workers' comp is tricky in Wisconsin

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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin to other major markets:

Other industries in Wisconsin

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