A cleaning service business is an excellent business opportunity for someone who enjoys working with their hands, moderate physical activity and working alone. Start-up costs are minimal, you can work out of your home, and you can operate your cleaning service business on a part-time basis. Though a relatively easy venture to start, it's still a good idea to start with a plan.
Enroll in cleaning courses designed around your business model. For example, the International Janitorial Cleaning Services offers courses on cleaning techniques and carpet care. Carpet cleaners can become certified through the Institute of Inspection, Certification and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Another option is to clean friend's and family's houses and have them critique your work.
Design a name for your cleaning service. Then contact your county clerk to obtain a business license and sales tax permit. Visit the IRS to obtain a federal tax ID. If you are starting a solo venture, you can operate as a sole proprietor. However, there are some liability advantages to incorporating or forming a limited liability company (LLC). You will need to purchase liability insurance for your business, which will cover you in the event that you damage a client's property (see Resources). You should also invest in bonding coverage.
Review other maid services in your area to get an idea of what types of cleaning you will do. Bathrooms, kitchens, windows, baseboards, walls, ceiling fans, floors, windows and vacuuming are typical cleaning services provided by a maid. You may also clean refrigerators and ovens, treat furniture, reorganize rooms, and pack and unpack.
Decide what services to offer. Your cleaning service could entail household cleaning, janitorial work to include indoor and outdoor services, or carpet cleaning. If start-up funds are limited, consider starting as a maid. Your costs would be significantly cheaper, as you wouldn't need to invest in heavy equipment.
Contact maid services in your area to get an idea of what to charge. Then draw up a price list. Create checklists of all of the cleaning services you may provide. Your client may not want all of your services. Use the checklist to ensure that you and the client fully understand what your job entails.
Purchase cleaning supplies and equipment. Some maid services require the client to provide cleaning supplies. Generally, though, the maid supplies her own cleaning products. You will need a mop, bucket, convenient carrying products, cleaning chemicals, a vacuum cleaner, gloves, mop heads, odor control, safety signs, sponges, apron, extension poles and dusters (see Resources). When selecting a vacuum cleaner ensure that it will last through numerous jobs. Oreck vacuums are highly-rated, light-weight commercial vacuums.
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