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Pennsylvania is one of the states where liability insurance is not optional. The child care regulations require every licensed center to carry comprehensive general liability insurance covering the persons on the premises, keep a current copy of the policy on file at the facility, and report liability claims to the Department of Human Services — with the claimant’s name, address and birth date.
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What Pennsylvania Actually Requires
| Coverage | Pennsylvania requirement |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive general liability | Required — 55 Pa. Code § 3270.18; current policy kept on file at the facility |
| Claim reporting | Every liability claim must be reported to DHS with a detailed description and claimant details |
| Vehicle insurance | Required on any vehicle used to transport children, per Pennsylvania financial responsibility law |
The Rule Is Specific, and Inspectors Check the File
Section 3270.18 does two unusual things. First, it requires that a current copy of the policy itself be on file at the facility — a certificate isn’t the document the regulation names, so keep the policy pages with your licensing binder. Second, it makes claims reportable to the state: a liability claim against the operator or any facility person goes to DHS with a detailed description. A lapse is a licensing citation, not just a business risk.
The Coverages Every Daycare Carries Regardless
- General liability with abuse & molestation coverage. The playground injury and the allegation are different claims; a daycare policy without A&M cover is missing the exposure the business is actually judged on.
- Commercial auto if you transport children — a personal policy excludes business use.
- Workers’ compensation once you employ staff.
- Property and contents for the build-out, equipment and food stock.
Parents ask if you’re insured. So do licensors.
A certificate of insurance answers both in one page. Quotes are free and don’t require a phone call.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is liability insurance required for a Pennsylvania daycare?
Yes. 55 Pa. Code § 3270.18 requires licensed child care centers to have comprehensive general liability insurance covering persons on the premises, with a current copy of the policy on file at the facility. Liability claims must also be reported to the Department of Human Services.
What insurance documents does a Pennsylvania daycare inspector look for?
A current copy of the liability policy itself, on file at the facility — the regulation names the policy, not just a certificate. Keep it with your licensing records alongside proof of vehicle coverage if you transport children.
Comparing states? See daycare insurance requirements in every state, or the full guide to starting a daycare in Pennsylvania.
Sources
| Source | What it confirms |
|---|---|
| 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3270 | General liability required (§ 3270.18), policy on file, claim reporting |
| PA DHS child care regulations | Licensing agency and current rules |
