How to Start a Business In-Home Cleaning Service
A home cleaning business can be a great opportunity to own your own business and work out of your place of residence. The start-up costs vary depending on your goals, but a cleaning service can usually be started with a low upfront investment. With basic cleaning supplies, transportation and a business license, you will be well on your way to earning money.
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Things You'll Need
- Business license
- Business insurance
- Cleaning supplies
- Vehicle
- Advertising flyers
- Receipt book
Instructions
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Create a list of basic services----such as vacuuming, mopping floors, making beds and washing dishes----you are willing to do for a certain price. List the services you consider a specialty such as waxing floors and determine how much extra this will cost you and your customer. Be competitive with your prices by checking the price your competition charges. You can do this by telephone or by reading advertisements in the local newspaper.
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Determine the type of cleaning supplies and equipment you will need to operate your business and add up the costs. Do not forget to include vehicle costs, business insurance and advertising. You will need to have this amount on hand for getting your business started. If you do not have all of it, consider applying for a small business loan at your bank.
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Choose a name for your cleaning business and apply for a business license with your county clerk's office. The clerk's office will also be able to provide you with zoning laws in your area so you can make sure it is legal to operate this type of business out of your home.
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Advertise your new cleaning business in a variety of ways. Place an advertisement in your local newspaper and put flyers up at local churches, schools, beauty shops and grocery stores. Offer a special low rate for first time customers.
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Organize your business by creating service forms. When customers call for service, fill the form out while you are talking with them. Keep an appointment book for your customers so that you do not overbook or get your schedule confused. If you are unsure how long a job will take, based on information from your potential customer, offer to come out and visit so you can provide an accurate quote before the job begins.
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Keep detailed records of your earnings and all receipts involved with operating your business. This will be required when you file your taxes and enable you to deduct expenses, lowering the amount of tax you have to pay on your earnings. Contact the IRS and set up a quarterly tax payment schedule for the self-employed.
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Tips & Warnings
If your business grows and you need to hire employees, contact the IRS and obtain an Employer Identification Number. This is the equivalent of a Social Security number for your business.
Offer special "green" cleaning services using nothing but organic, non-toxic supplies. This will appeal to environmentally conscious customers.
Business insurance is necessary for self-protection in case something is broken or damaged in a home you are cleaning. Make certain any employees you hire are listed on your business insurance.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Woman cleaning the house. image by maron from Fotolia.com
