How to Start a Small Janitorial Cleaning Business

Offices, schools and public places such as malls require help in maintaining a clean environement.

Offices, hospitals, schools, warehouses and malls are just a few of the many places that may require janitorial services. In many cases, these services are needed at the end of the day or early in the morning. When starting a small janitorial cleaning service, consider the types of businesses in your area and their needs. Janitorial services range from cleaning small offices to large industrial areas. Depending on your experience and expertise, your business may be suited to handle a variety of customers.

Things You'll Need

• Business plan
• Business license
• Business insurance
• Janitorial cleaning equipment

Instructions

1. Create a business plan to help keep you organized while building your business. Your business plan should include a description of the types of janitorial services offered such as window cleaning, vacuuming, carpet cleaning, mopping and waxing floors, trash removal, dusting or light maid service for communal kitchens and public areas. Create a list of all equipment and supplies needed to perform janitorial services. Create a monthly budget that includes the cost of equipment, supplies and labor. Draft a marketing plan that outlines how to advertise janitorial services to potential customers.

2. Register your business with state and local agencies such as the secretary of state's office and county clerk's office. Visit agency websites to download the appropriate business registration forms. Visit the IRS website to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Use this number when filing state and local tax returns.

3. Apply for a business license and other licenses required in your state to operate a janitorial service. Visit your state's department of labor or small business administration for information about licensing requirements. Additional licensing to handle or remove hazardous waste may also be necessary if you plan to offer janitorial services to hospitals, labs or warehouse storage facilities.

4. Purchase business insurance such as general liability, property insurance, auto insurance and worker's compensation insurance (if hiring employees) from a licensed insurance provider. Business insurance helps protect business assets from lawsuits, settlements or to provide medical and disability coverage to employees injured while on the job. You may also have to purchase a surety bond to perform janitorial services. A surety bond is used to keep business owners honest when providing services to customers. Bond monies may be used to cover expenses incurred during a lawsuit or to help cover the costs of a settlement.

5. Purchase janitorial equipment and supplies from a local janitorial supply store or online. Purchase a van or other vehicle large enough to transport equipment and employees. Lease commercial office space or operate your business from home. Purchase invoice billing software to track customer invoices and payment.

6. Advertise janitorial services to offices, schools, hospitals, malls and other places of business in your area. Join the local chamber of commerce to meet local business owners. Attend local networking events and trade shows to market your services. Create a website that highlights the types of janitorial services provided, the cost for those services, testimonials of satisfied customers and contact information. Advertise your business in online and print business directories.

Tips & Warnings

• Save equipment and supply receipts and track company vehicle mileage in a log book as these expenses are tax deductible.

• As your business expands, you may need to hire additional employees and purchase additional equipment and supplies. Adjust the price for janitorial services accordingly to ensure you earn enough to pay for extra equipment, supplies and labor.

References

• Entrepreneur: How to Start a Cleaning Service

Resources

• Small Business Administration: Write a Business Plan