Insurance Requirements for Kitchen Extraction Cleaning in the UK

-

 Kitchen extraction cleaning is an essential process in maintaining hygiene and fire safety in commercial kitchens across the UK. Insurance plays a crucial role in protecting businesses, contractors, and property owners from potential liabilities. Understanding the insurance requirements for kitchen extraction cleaning is vital for compliance and financial security.

Why Insurance is Important for Kitchen Extraction Cleaning

Kitchen extraction systems accumulate grease, dust, and debris over time, increasing fire risks. If a fire breaks out due to a poorly maintained extraction system, the consequences can be severe—leading to property damage, business interruption, or even legal repercussions.

Having the right insurance ensures:
✔️ Financial protection in case of fire or other damages
✔️ Compliance with UK fire safety laws
✔️ Protection against claims from clients or third parties

Types of Insurance Required

1. Public Liability Insurance

This covers claims made by third parties for injury or damage caused during the cleaning process. If a client’s property is damaged or someone is injured due to negligence, this insurance covers legal and compensation costs.

✅ Recommended Coverage: £2 million – £5 million (varies based on business size and risk exposure)

2. Employers’ Liability Insurance

If you employ staff, this insurance is legally required under the Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969. It protects employees in case of work-related injuries or illnesses caused by kitchen extraction cleaning activities.

✅ Minimum Legal Requirement: £5 million

3. Professional Indemnity Insurance

This insurance covers claims related to professional negligence, such as incorrect cleaning procedures leading to fire risks or health hazards. Many clients, including restaurants and hotels, may require proof of this insurance before hiring a cleaning service.

✅ Recommended Coverage: £100,000 – £1 million

4. Contractors’ All Risks Insurance

For businesses involved in major extraction system overhauls, this insurance covers on-site damages to equipment, tools, and materials during work.

✅ Ideal for contractors handling large-scale kitchen extraction cleaning projects.

5. Business Interruption Insurance

If your kitchen extraction cleaning business is disrupted due to unexpected events (fire, flood, theft), this insurance compensates for lost income.

✅ Recommended for businesses dependent on scheduled cleaning contracts.

Industry Regulations and Compliance

Fire Safety Regulations (BS EN 15780 & TR19)

The UK has strict fire safety laws related to kitchen extraction systems. Compliance with BS EN 15780 (ventilation system hygiene) and TR19 (fire risk reduction in ductwork) is necessary for valid insurance claims.

Failure to comply may lead to:
❌ Insurance claims being rejected
❌ Hefty fines from authorities
❌ Increased fire hazards

How to Ensure Your Insurance Remains Valid

1️⃣ Regular Duct Cleaning & Maintenance – Follow TR19 guidelines to clean extraction systems at least every 3–6 months.
2️⃣ Keep Detailed Records – Maintain cleaning logs, risk assessments, and certificates to prove compliance.
3️⃣ Use Certified Cleaning Services – Many insurers require professionals with industry accreditation such as BESA (Building Engineering Services Association).
4️⃣ Review Your Policy Annually – Ensure your insurance coverage aligns with changing business risks and regulations.

Conclusion

Kitchen extraction cleaning businesses must have the right insurance to protect against potential risks and legal obligations. Public liability, employers’ liability, and professional indemnity insurance are essential for financial security and compliance.

Are you covered? If you run a kitchen extraction cleaning service, review your insurance today to ensure you meet UK safety standards.

💬 Have questions? Drop a comment below!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How to Choose a Specialist Extraction Cleaning Company & Avoid Cowboy Operators

-
Image
  When it comes to maintaining a safe and efficient commercial kitchen, choosing the right extraction cleaning company is crucial. A poorly maintained kitchen extraction system can lead to fire hazards, hygiene issues, and non-compliance with regulations. Unfortunately, the industry has its fair share of "cowboy" operators—businesses that cut corners, provide substandard work, and leave you exposed to risks. To ensure you partner with a reliable and professional extraction cleaning company, here are the key factors to look for and red flags to avoid. What to Look for in a Specialist Extraction Cleaning Company 1. Industry Accreditations & Certifications A reputable extraction cleaning company should hold relevant industry accreditations. Look for certifications such as: BESA (Building Engineering Services Association) TR19 compliance – Ensures the company follows best practices in ductwork cleaning. CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) – Demonstrates a...
Read more

The Hidden Hazards of Neglecting Kitchen Extraction System Cleaning

-
Image
Did you know that failing to clean your kitchen extraction system could pose serious risks to both your business and the safety of your employees? It’s a task that is often overlooked, but regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to keeping your kitchen running smoothly and securely. Here’s why you should never underestimate the importance of proper kitchen extraction system cleaning: 1. Fire Hazards Over time, grease and other flammable substances can build up in the extraction system, creating a significant fire risk. With the heat and steam in a kitchen, this buildup can ignite and spread rapidly, leading to a dangerous fire. Keeping your extraction system clean significantly reduces this risk. 2. Poor Air Quality A dirty extraction system struggles to properly ventilate, which can lead to poor indoor air quality. This not only makes the kitchen environment uncomfortable but also poses health risks to your staff, potentially causing respiratory issues and increased s...
Read more

Selecting a Trusted Kitchen Extraction Cleaning Company: Top-Rated Services and Key Considerations

-
  Highly Rated Kitchen Extraction Cleaning Companies If you're looking for top-rated kitchen extraction cleaning services, here are some of the most reputable companies based on customer reviews and industry recognition: 1. Extract Compliance Ltd Extract Compliance Ltd is highly rated for its professional kitchen extraction cleaning services. Clients praise their attention to detail, high-quality service, and TR19 compliance. Many businesses continue to use them for regular maintenance, highlighting their reliability and expertise.  2. Deep Clean Northampton Sil All Services Known for providing deep and one-off cleans, this company is recognized as one of Northampton's top-rated cleaning services.  3. Newclean Cleaning Services Hull Established in 1991, this professional and reliable local domestic house cleaning service operates in Hull and surrounding villages, offering experienced female cleaners.  4. Harrods Cleaning Services Ltd With a mission to provide spotles...
Read more