Just like homes, businesses require regular cleaning to keep from getting too dirty. This type of cleaning, which is referred to as commercial cleaning or office cleaning, usually occurs after the business is closed. The company or individual in charge of cleaning tackles jobs like washing the windows, cleaning off surfaces, vacuuming the floors, cleaning the restrooms, and any other cleaning-related tasks required by the business. If you are interested in starting a janitorial or cleaning company that provides office cleaning services, you need to follow the right steps.
Even if you don’t have a lot of money to begin with, you can grow your business slowly over time. Although you may only have a handful of clients when you are starting out, you can gradually add more and more customers, hiring additional employees as necessary.
If you haven’t ever started a business before, you may be a little bit overwhelmed by all of the paperwork and legal requirements involved in the process. Every city, county, or province has different rules regarding business start-ups. For instance, new businesses in Toronto can register online through Enterprise Toronto. The easiest way to figure out what the requirements are for your area is by using your favorite search engine to search for the name of your province plus phrases like “new business requirements” or “how to start a cleaning business”.
Repeat the process for the city and county where you live, as well. Each of these entities may have different requirements regarding new start-up businesses. It is important to make sure that you are in compliance at every level.
Create a List of Services
The next step is to figure out the specific cleaning tasks you are willing to handle. Depending on your business, you may want to limit it to basic commercial cleaning tasks like sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting surfaces, and cleaning the restrooms. Other duties that you may want to add include emptying the garbage, shampooing the carpets, or power-washing the floors.
Put Together a Business Plan
Having a business plan dramatically improves your chances of success. In your business plan, include information such as the types of services that you will provide and how you will market your business to potential customers. Add up all of the costs associated with starting your business. Don’t forget to include expenses related to marketing, as well. Remember — your business may not earn a profit right out of the gate. Figure out how you will cover your operating expenses between the time you start your business and the time you start earning a profit. You may also want to use your business plan to create projections for future growth.
Get a Business License and Any Necessary Permits
Apply for a business license in your area. Depending on where you live, licensing and bonding may or may not be required for your cleaning business. Licensing is not only important from a compliance standpoint, but it also makes your cleaning company more attractive to prospective clients. Having a license shows that you are qualified for the job, which increases the likelihood of getting hired.
Obtain Business Insurance
Before you begin operating your business, purchase liability insurance. This type of insurance will cover any damage or accidents that occur while you are operating your business.
Purchase Cleaning Supplies and Equipment
Invest in basic cleaning supplies for your business including a broom, mop, professional-grade vacuum, and bucket. You should also purchase dusting rags, sponges, and a variety of different cleaning products. If you plan on offering carpet shampooing or power washing, you will need to purchase the right equipment for those tasks, as well.
Price Your Services
Decide whether you want to charge by the hour or whether you want to charge a flat rate for each service. Most new customers will want an estimate before hiring you. Having your prices established ahead of time makes coming up with an accurate quote easier.
Start Advertising
If you want to get new customers, you need to let them know that your business exists. Consider contacting offices or other businesses in person to let them know about your services. Mailing out advertisements is also a good option. To reach a local audience, try placing an ad in the phone book or newspaper. Building a website is also a great idea since it helps you connect with new customers online.
Focus on Getting Referrals
Give your company a professional appearance by investing in brochures, flyers, magnetic car signs, and business cards. Placing advertisements in local publications is also a great option.
Once you start working for a few clients, don’t be afraid to ask them for referrals. As long as you do a good job when cleaning their businesses, they most likely will be happy to send other customers your way.
Hire Employees When Necessary
When you first start your business, you will probably do most of the cleaning yourself. Over time, however, you may need to add employees to keep up with the workload. With each new person you hire, get their permission to conduct a background check so that you can be sure they are trustworthy and reliable.
Additional Tips
– If you can’t afford to buy a carpet cleaner or power washer when you are just starting, think about renting this type of equipment whenever you need it. Eventually, as your business starts earning more money, you can buy your own.
– Reach out to local office cleaning businesses to talk to them about their pricing. This will give you a better idea of how to price your services to remain competitive.
– Think about getting bonded even if it isn’t required in your province. Clients sometimes balk at the idea of hiring a cleaning company that isn’t bonded. As long as you have insurance, however, you should be able to find clients who are willing to work with you.
