Commercial spaces, such as office buildings, usually require nightly or weekend-only janitorial-style cleaning. Washing the floors, cleaning the bathrooms, emptying trash cans, cleaning kitchen areas, and washing doors and windows is often included in this type of service. This type of work is steady and pays well. Homeowners hire maid services to do general cleaning and often tasks specific to the clients’ needs. The maids usually work while the client is at home. Gearing your business toward residential cleaning services will mean having a diversity of clients, since most homes only need to be cleaned once a week or so.
Carpet cleaning or floor waxing services. Window washing services. Janitorial services. Private residence maid services. Organic cleaning services.
If you work out of your home you won’t have to pay for a commercial space. You’ll save some money, but you’ll have to store the cleaning equipment in your house. Having a commercial space will allow you to have clients meet with you in a professional setting. You can set up a desk with comfortable chairs for your clients to sit in while you describe the services you offer. Having a storefront will help you to advertise and build your brand. You’ll be able to display your name and logo for everyone who drives past to see.
Check to see if the name you picked out will make a good web domain name. Make sure it’s available. Check to make sure the name you pick hasn’t already been registered as a business. Design a logo to go with your name. Make it look modern and sleek, since you’ll want to print it on business cards, use it on your website, and use it in other promotional materials.
Determine the best business structure for your company. For example, you may choose to work as a sole proprietor or set up a limited liability company. [1] X Expert Source Raymond ChiuHouse Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 15 October 2019. You may also need to get a license or business permit to operate a cleaning service in your city. [2] X Expert Source Raymond ChiuHouse Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 15 October 2019. Contact your local Small Business Bureau to find out more information.
Going into business with a partner and pooling resources is one way to approach funding if you can’t swing it on your own and you don’t want to take out big loans. You could also look into grants as an alternative option. [4] X Research source
Make sure you have the right safety equipment to keep you and any employees you might hire safe on the job. Gloves and masks are a necessity if you’re going to be handling toxic cleaning chemicals. Try renting equipment for the first few weeks so you’ll have the chance to make sure it’s up to your standards before making a purchase.
The look of your company vehicle is important. Driving around in a van that’s run down with a lot of chips and dents isn’t good advertisement for your company. Consider having your logo screen printed on your vehicle as a way to advertise.
Even if you are a sole proprietor, set up a separate account for your business. [7] X Expert Source Raymond ChiuHouse Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 15 October 2019. You can use accounting software to process and send invoices. When your business grows, consider hiring an accountant who can competently keep track of your expenses.
Advertise in local newspapers and magazines. Offer deals to first time customers. Set up an account on Facebook and Twitter where you can advertise your company. Make sure you have a professional-looking website that lists your services and contact information.
If something gets broken while you’re on the job, let your client know and either replace the item or reimburse your client right away. Put items back where you found them after cleaning them. Don’t touch people’s personal items unless you’ve been instructed to do so. Stay out of rooms you haven’t been instructed to clean. You don’t want to be accused of something you didn’t do.
