Starting your own commercial cleaning business can be a great way to make some extra money as a part-time venture, or even as a full-time business. With the right information and planning, you can be successful.
Here are the 10 steps you can take to get started on building your very own commercial cleaning business.
10 Steps to Launching a New Commercial Cleaning Business
1. Choose Your Type of Commercial Cleaning Business
The first step in launching a commercial cleaning business is to identify the type of commercial cleaning business you want to launch. You might choose from the following types among others:
- Offices
- Restaurants
- Retail Stores
- Banks
- Medical Facilities
Learn more about the types of commercial cleaning businesses.
2. Name Your Commercial Cleaning Business
Give your commercial cleaning business an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your commercial cleaning business from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your own name among other options.
The main goal for naming your commercial cleaning business is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so customers will be motivated to use your services.
3. Determine Your Commercial Cleaning Business Model
There are several possible types of business models for a commercial cleaning business including:
- Mobile unit: You drive to your customer’s location to provide cleaning services.
- Day porter: You provide on-site cleaning services during business hours.
- Night janitorial: You provide cleaning services after business hours.
No matter which model you choose, make sure that it aligns with your business goals and the services you offer.
4. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business
By incorporating your commercial cleaning business, you will limit your liability. You can incorporate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a C Corporation (C-Corp), or an S Corporation (S-Corp). Or you can operate as a sole proprietorship.
The business structure you choose for your commercial cleaning business will determine the amount of taxes you pay and which state or federal tax forms you need to file.
Read our article comparing the most common commercial cleaning business structures.
5. Write a Commercial Cleaning Business Plan
All commercial cleaning business owners should develop a business plan.
A business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or lenders, as well as to guide the day-to-day operations of the business. The business plan should include information on the company’s products or services, market analysis, financial projections, and management team among other things.
Read our article about how to write a commercial cleaning business plan.
6. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses
There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your commercial cleaning business.
The specific permits and licenses required will depend on the type of business, where it is located, and other factors.
You must also register your commercial cleaning business as a legal entity with the state where you plan to do business. You can simply file an online form through your Secretary of State website.
Registering with the federal government is also essential so you can properly pay taxes for your business. You will also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can apply for at the IRS website, if you plan to hire employees.
Read our article about obtaining the proper commercial cleaning business licenses.
7. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed
In developing your commercial cleaning business plan, you will figure out how much funding you need to start and grow your business.
If you have your own funds to invest in your commercial cleaning business, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your personal funds, other forms of potential funding for your commercial cleaning business include traditional bank loans, SBA loans, credit cards, angel investors and family and friends.
Read our article about the costs associated with starting a commercial cleaning business to help you determine if funding is needed.
Read our article about how to fund your commercial cleaning business.
8. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently
When you start your commercial cleaning business, it’s essential to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency. You definitely need a computer with Internet access, and accounting software for tracking expenses and revenues.
You may also want to invest in a customer relationship management (CRM) system to help manage your clients, as well as project management software to keep track of cleaning jobs.
In addition, there are various other software programs available that can help commercial cleaning businesses with appointment scheduling, payroll, marketing and more.
Read our article about the technology and software you need to run a commercial cleaning business.
9. Market Your Commercial Cleaning Business to Potential Clients
Before you start selling your services, you have to let the world know you exist. The first step is to create a website so people can learn more about your services and how they benefit them.
After you launch your website, start promoting it through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Also consider networking with other people in the commercial cleaning industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business.
You also need to start gathering the materials needed to execute on your promotions strategy, which is your strategy for attracting new customers. Commercial cleaning businesses should consider the following promotional strategies for which you should start getting prepared:
- Creating a commercial cleaning business website
- Creating social media accounts and promoting your website on those channels
- Networking with other people in the commercial cleaning industry
- Creating marketing materials like business cards, flyers, etc.
- Offering free consultations or cleaning services
Read our article about how to market your commercial cleaning business for more tips.
10. Get New Clients & Grow Your Business
When you promote your services, you’ll start to get interest from potential clients.
Make sure you’re ready to serve these clients. Also, be sure to establish systems to ensure consistency and reduce costs. And be sure to find and train the right people to help you grow your commercial cleaning business.
Read our article about how to effectively grow your commercial cleaning business to learn more.
Starting a Commercial Cleaning Business FAQs
Why Start a Commercial Cleaning Business?
There are many reasons why you should start a commercial cleaning business. For example, it’s a great way to be your own boss and have complete control over your career. You can make a good living by starting a commercial cleaning business, as the average revenue for these businesses is $60,000 per year.
What is Needed to Start a Successful Commercial Cleaning Business?
To start a successful commercial cleaning business, you need to have a strong understanding of the cleaning industry and what it takes to run a business. You also need to be familiar with the equipment and supplies needed for commercial cleaning, as well as the marketing strategies that will help you attract new clients. Obtain the proper licenses and permits and purchase insurance. Finally, invest in the right technology and software to help you run your business smoothly.
How Can I Start a Commercial Cleaning Business From Home?
Starting a commercial cleaning business from home is a great way to save on overhead costs. To do this, simply promote your services online and through word-of-mouth. Get the proper licenses and permits, purchase insurance, and invest in the right technology and software. You’ll also need to find reliable employees who can help you with the day-to-day operations of your business. Finally, market your business to potential clients so you can start getting new business.
How Can I Start a Commercial Cleaning Business Online?
To start a commercial cleaning business online, you need to create a website that showcases your services. Promote your website through social media channels and other online platforms. You should also consider creating marketing materials, such as business cards and flyers, to help promote your business. And, be sure to invest in the right technology and software to help run your business smoothly.
Find a good place to store your equipment. You could consider using a storage shed, a portion of your garage or build a workroom with equipment storage in your home.
Finally, ensure that your clients can book appointments through your website.
What are Some Tips for Starting a Commercial Cleaning Business?
Here are some tips to help you get started with your commercial cleaning business:
Research the market: Familiarize yourself with the cleaning industry and what it takes to run a successful business.
Invest in the right equipment and supplies: Research the equipment you’ll need for commercial cleaning, i.e. vacuum cleaners, shampoo machines, steam cleaners, etc. And, look for supplies from wholesale providers. Make sure you have the proper licenses and permits, as well as insurance.
Find reliable employees: Hire people who you can trust to help you with the day-to-day operations of your business.
Market your business: Use social media and other online platforms to promote your commercial cleaning business.
Invest in technology and software: Use the right tools to help manage your business effectively.
Where Can I Find a Simple Checklist for Starting a Commercial Cleaning Business?
A simple checklist to use when starting a commercial cleaning business is as follows:
- Choose Your Type of Commercial Cleaning Firm: This should be based on what you are best at and how much experience you have. Remember to keep your interests, skills, and experience in mind at all times.
- Name Your Commercial Cleaning Business: This should be done with care, as your brand is important for attracting the right customers. A simple, memorable name will go a long way.
- Choose a Legal Form for Your Business: Whether you choose to become a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or another option will depend on your business. Ensure that you are aware of all the implications of each type.
- Determine Your Commercial Cleaning Business Model: Determine how your business will make money. Will you sell products, services, or a combination of both?
- Write a Commercial Cleaning Business Plan: Your business plan will also help you determine what your start-up costs will be and will provide a roadmap with which you can launch and grow.
- Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses: In most locations you will be required to apply for a business license and/or permits before you can begin operations.
- Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed: You will need to know how much money you have to spend on all of your business-related expenses before opening any doors. If needed, apply for a small business loan or other funding options.
- Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently: You need to have the right tools in place to succeed. Implement software that will help you manage your time, contacts, and business operations in general.
- Market Your Commercial Cleaning Business to Potential Clients: A solid marketing plan will be crucial to your success. It should focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need.
- Get Clients & Grow Your Business: Once you have a solid marketing plan, it's time to actively pursue and secure those who could benefit the most from your services.
Summary
Starting a commercial cleaning business can be an extremely profitable venture. Follow the tips we’ve provided in this article, and you’ll be on your way to starting a successful business in no time.