Do You Need Commercial Auto Insurance for Your Pressure Washing Truck?

If you own a pressure washing business, your truck is more than just transportation — it’s the backbone of your operation. It hauls your equipment, gets you to job sites, and sometimes even serves as your mobile office.

But when it comes to insurance, is a standard personal auto policy enough? In most cases, no — you’ll likely need commercial auto insurance.

Coverage details and requirements vary by insurer and state. Always confirm exact terms with your provider before relying on coverage.

Why Personal Auto Insurance Usually Isn’t Enough

A personal auto policy is designed for everyday driving — not for vehicles used primarily for business. If you use your truck for work (hauling equipment, transporting employees, advertising your services), your insurer could deny a claim if the policy does not include commercial use.

Commercial auto coverage is often recommended or required when:

• The truck is registered to your business name
• You use the truck to transport tools, equipment, or hazardous materials
• Employees drive the vehicle
• Your vehicle displays business signage or wraps
• You regularly travel to job sites as part of paid work

What Commercial Auto Insurance Covers

Coverage depends on your insurer, but a standard commercial auto policy may include:

• Liability coverage – May help pay for bodily injury or property damage you cause while driving for business purposes.
• Physical damage coverage – May help repair or replace your truck if it’s damaged in a covered collision, theft, fire, or other events.
• Medical payments or personal injury protection – May help cover medical bills for you or passengers after an accident.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist – May help protect you if you’re hit by a driver with little or no insurance.
• Hired and non-owned auto coverage – Applies if you rent or borrow vehicles for work.

Coverage names and definitions can differ between insurance companies. Always verify exactly what is included in your policy.

Cost of Commercial Auto Insurance for Pressure Washing Businesses

Industry surveys show that commercial auto insurance for small service businesses often falls between $1,200 and $2,500 per year per vehicle, but actual rates can be higher or lower based on your insurer’s underwriting, business profile, and coverage selections.

Why Commercial Auto Insurance Matters for Pressure Washing Trucks

Pressure washing trucks often carry water tanks, chemicals, and expensive equipment. If your truck is damaged or involved in an accident, a personal policy might not cover the loss — and you could be left paying for repairs, medical bills, and lost business income out of pocket.

In addition, many commercial contracts require proof of commercial auto insurance before allowing you to start work.

Bottom Line

If your pressure washing truck is essential to your business, commercial auto insurance is worth strong consideration. In many cases, commercial auto insurance is required by contracts or local regulations, and it’s often the safer choice for protecting your business.

Request a no-obligation quote to see your available options and ensure you’re meeting client and legal requirements.