Pool Cleaning Business
Starting a pool cleaning business is a good opportunity for those who enjoy working outdoors. These professionals are responsible for checking a pool's chemical levels, ensuring that pumps and filters are in good working order and keeping debris out of the pool. This business can be started part-time and eventually developed into a full-time business as you build clientele. But before launching this business, you should identify your target market, create a business plan and apply for a business license.
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Instructions
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Identify your target market. Before launching any business, it's important to evaluate the community you will serve and identify potential customers. For example, define if there is a large number of homeowners and apartments with pools in your area. You should also take inventory of local hotels, health clubs and colleges that have pools. Check out other pool businesses in the area and determine who they serve. For example, there may be an abundance of pool cleaning companies that offer services to businesses, but not many offering residential services. This could be a niche that you could potentially target.
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Create a business plan. Once you identify your target market, it's time to create a business plan. This will help you create marketing, finance and operating strategies. If you haven't created a business plan before, check out Bplans (see Resources below). This is a company that offers free business plan templates online.
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Apply for a business license. Before officially opening your doors for business, you must have a business license. Contact your city's business department, which is typically located in the city hall. Expect to pay up to $100 for a license, and processing could take a couple weeks.
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Purchase pool cleaning equipment. After you have your business plan and license, it's time to purchase pool equipment. When starting out, purchase skimmers, pool test kits, hoses and a small supply of chemicals. You'll also need a cart to carry your supplies around. Check out In The Swim, a company that sells bulk pool supplies to small businesses (see Resources below).
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Market your services to your niche customers. If you are targeting businesses, stop by and ask to speak with the manager. Leave business cards and an inexpensive flyer for the manager's review. When targeting residential customers, get out on the weekend (when most people are home) and hand out flyers. Also, give customers discounts on service for referring their friends.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't get discouraged. Staring a new pool business takes time. Once you start generating word of mouth from happy customers, you business will grow.
Solicit the help of an accountant. If you're unsure about how to handle taxes with your own business, have an accountant assist you for the first year.
