Setting up a cleaning business might sound simple, but the industry is surprisingly diverse. So the first question is: what kind of cleaning do you want to do?
Broadly speaking, the industry is split into three categories: domestic cleaning(working in people’s homes); commercial cleaning (providing services in offices, etc); and specialist cleaning (such as carpet cleaning, window cleaning, oven cleaning, graffiti removal, etc).
For many cleaning businesses, the good news is that you might not need to spend a lot of money to get started. Also, you can run the business fairly cheaply, with few overheads. However, assuming you’ll be doing most, if not all, of the cleaning yourself to begin with, you need to be prepared for long hours and plenty of hard graft.
Of course, as the business grows, you might be able to take on employees and spend more time running the day-to-day business and hopefully winning more contracts. But it could take a few years before you reach that level.
Most domestic and specialist cleaners start off as sole traders. If that’s the route you choose, you’ll need to register for self-assessment with HM Revenue & Customers (HMRC). You’ll then be required to submit a tax return every year so it’s essential to keep accounts of your income and business expenses.
You won’t need specific training for a domestic cleaning business but your success will depend on the quality of service you provide, so you need to be meticulous. Some people are more suited to the business than others and it will certainly help if you enjoy cleaning generally. You also need to be fairly fit and healthy as the work will be quite physical.
Clients need to be comfortable to have you in their home, and will often supply you with a key – so you’ll have to show you’re completely trustworthy and good natured. Also bear in mind they will have exacting standards and high expectations regarding the cleanliness of their home and their opinion of how things should be done might differ from yours – in which case, the old dictum applies: the customer is always right. You need to have a thick skin when it comes to taking criticism and be prepared to take orders.
If you’re starting a specialist cleaning business, the job might involve the use of technical equipment. This will obviously require more of an outlay to set up the business than a basic domestic cleaning venture. It might also mean you need some level of training.
A commercial cleaning business is usually a bigger enterprise than a domestic or specialist cleaning venture, requiring more staff, more equipment and, of course, more funding. You might also need vans to transport employees and materials. And while many domestic and specialist cleaning businesses can be ran from home, a larger commercial venture might benefit from office premises. Depending on circumstances, it might be worthwhile registering the business as a limited company. An accountant can advise you on the best way to structure the firm.
If you’re taking on employees, it’s essential you and your clients can trust them. Get references and vet candidates thoroughly. You’ll need to familiarise yourself with your duties regarding the minimum wage and workplace pensions, and you’ll be required by law to take out employers’ liability insurance. Also consider any other types of insurance cover you could benefit from, such as public liability insurance.
Whichever type of cleaning business you start, don’t neglect the need to market your services. Work out a budget for advertising in the local media and printing fliers, business cards and other marketing material. Also consider setting up a website.
