Starting a Cleaning Business

Starting a cleaning business is a good option is you are looking for a small business that has a low startup cost, with very few 'prerequisites' for entry into the market.

Typical Services

This type of business provides cleaning services for offices, serviced apartments, retail shops, hotels and restaurants, health clubs, and the list goes on.

Usually the service is provided 'after hours' when the business you are providing service for is closed for the day. So you are unlikely to be working a traditional 9 - 5 day!

This type of contract generally involves tasks like vacuuming floors, emptying waste paper bins and cleaning hard surfaces although usually not work stations as these are typically the responsibility of the employees.

Qualifications?

You do not need any formal qualifications to set up a business in this field, but you will need to demonstrate to your clients that you can provide a reliable, good quality service.

Equipment?

If you are going to provide your own equipment, rather than using equipment provided by your clients, you will need to purchase an industrial vacuum cleaner, and a cleaning cart.

If you intend to offer a carpet cleaning service, an industrial steam cleaner would also be a good investment. You will also need a vehicle large enough to transport all of your equipment.

Startup Costs?

Other than the equipment you purchase, your startup costs will include an amount for consumables like cleaning solutions, garbage bags, and rubber gloves.

You should also set aside a certain amount for advertising your services in local business publications and newspapers.

Insurance is a good idea, look into the cost of business insurance, liability insurance, personal income protection and work compensation insurance if you intend to hire staff.

Depending on whether or not you decide to purchase your own equipment your startup costs will range from $700 - $5,000 (excluding the cost of a vehicle!)

Potential Earnings?

Overheads for this type of service are reasonably low, particularly if you start out based at home, so you will be able to generate a good income.

Potential earnings range between $45,000 to $75,000, more if you build the business to the point where you can employ staff to take on more contracts.

Additional Resources

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