Things You'll Need:
- Registered Business Name Buckets Squeegees Sponges Cloths / Towels Ladders Extension poles
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Step 1
Consult a lawyer and/or an accountant to help set up the legal and financial aspects of the business. Even though the window cleaning business may be small, it is a good idea to set it up as an LLC or LLP, to protect the owner from customer litigation.
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Step 2
Register the business with the local or state government and purchase the proper business insurance. Window cleaning on ladders is hazardous work. Also, make sure you have a good liability policy for damage (i.e. a ladder crashing through a window or onto a customer's car.)
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Step 3
Conduct a marketing plan. Create fliers for hand-outs in the neighborhoods you plan to target. Make a website; purchase advertising space with search engines. Buy ads in the local newspaper and send out coupons (try a coupon company, such as ValPak or Money Mailer). Finally, Lynn says that most people, about 46 percent, find cleaning services through word-of-mouth. Therefore, give customers a reason to pass your name along, such as discount on future cleaning. Target both homeowners and business people. The more customers, the better chance of spreading the word about your new venture.
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Step 4
Purchase the needed equipment. Ladders, squeegees, sponges, extension poles, buckets, window cleaner and cloths are the tools of the trade. Make sure your ladders are sturdy and safe. And if you don't have a proper vehicle to tote all your supplies, make that one of your business' first acquisitions. Maybe you need enough supplies for just one crew at first. If business is good, you can outfit a second crew, or even more.
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Step 5
Hire and supervise employees to ensure quality work. Kevin Durella, of Coverall Health Based Cleaning Systems, says many new cleaning service owners make the mistake of letting employees have to much control, too early. Plan on rolling up your sleeves and climbing the ladder as the business gets rolling. Each new customer is too valuable to lose because an employee left streaks on a window.
