How to Start a Commercial Window Cleaning Business

A professional window cleaner puts safety first.

If you enjoy hard work and the thought of owning your own business, starting a commercial window cleaning service may be right up your alley. This type of business can easily be operated from home, which translates to fewer start-up costs and business risks. Write up a business plan to identify your costs, such as window cleaning supplies, employees, permits, certification and advertising.

Things You'll Need

• High rise equipment
• Safety equipment
• Cleaning supplies

Instructions

1. Consider enrolling in the International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA) Safety Certification Program to learn more about window cleaning safety and equipment use, such as rope descending systems and suspended scaffolds (see Resources below). Being certified is also a great way to set your business apart from the competition.

2. Visit your county clerk's office and register your business. Then obtain a federal tax ID. Contact your local zoning authority about any restrictions to starting a home-based business in your area. As you expand and hire more employees, it may be a good idea to lease space. Since customers aren't likely to visit your business, your location isn't particularly important. Look for a safe area with cheap rent.

3. Hire an employee. Commercial washing can be more time consuming than residential cleaning. You may be working on high-rise buildings or have a number of establishments you need to tackle each week. Hire an employee who is professional and timely. Train him on proper safety.

4. Purchase worker's compensation insurance and bonding coverage for each employee, to protect your business, employees, and your clients in the event of injury or theft. Purchase liability insurance for your business and commercial vehicle. Visit Netquote.com or Travelers.com for quotes on business liability insurance.

5. Procure a utility van or truck for your business. Purchase window cleaning chemicals, squeegees, rags, brushes, towels, buckets, rope bags, harnesses, sit boards, rope grabs, rigging equipment, extension poles, ladders, disposable shoe covers for inside cleaning, uniforms, billing invoices, business cards, and a scratch and graffiti removal kit (see Resources below).

6. Visit establishments such as schools, hospitals, offices and warehouses near your home, to solicit clients. Be sure to wear your uniform and inform the establishment owner that you are a certified, licensed, bonded and insured, professional window cleaner. Target those businesses that are close together, in order to reduce your travel time, gas and car maintenance. Leave a detailed flier or business card.

Tips & Warnings

• Join your Chamber of Commerce. Set up a booth at fairs and local festivals. Invest in a filing cabinet to store invoices, receipts, and tax documents.

References

• Starting a Window Washing Business
• IRS: Federal Tax ID

Resources

• IWCA Safety Program
• National Uniforms
• Window Cleaning Supplies