Your questions about how to start a cleaning business

Wize Guy answers:

You’ve gotten some good answers so far. You don’t say whether you are think of going into office cleaning (that’s what I do and it’s one of the more stable cleaning businesses) or residential-also pretty stable IF you target the right customers. So, that’s the first thing-decide what area of cleaning you’d like to do. All can be done part-time, though commercial usually is done in the evenings, or after (before) hours.
Then check with your city or county clerk to see if there are ordinances or requirement or licenses you need. Sometimes, these can wait, unless it’s the first one I mentioned.
You will need liability insurance (or a bond, depending on where you live). You won’t need much to start, but it protects YOU and your customer. Call every insurance agent to get quotes as the price varies. Besides, you may pick up a customer!
I have a lot more information, resources and tips on my Squidoo lens and blog…both links are in My Profile!
Good Luck!!

Wize Guy answers:

Easy, I’m not so sure. Cleaning is hard work. I know because I am an owner of a cleaning service these past six years. I started with the intentions of doing cleaning for a short time until I got a real job. I’m here to tell you cleaning for people is a valuable service you provide, and the bonus is you get well paid for your work. I charge a minimum of $20. an hour but most will pay me more because I do an excellent job and I am very reliable. For one timers I charge $22. an hour.

I started by just placing an ad in the local newspaper and the rest is history. I now use free advertising on the internet and I stay completely booked and even get extra work on the weekends if I want to work. I turn down a lot of work simply because I do not have enough time.

I do know of some cleaners that use public transportation and/or if you have clients that live close by some will actually come by and pick you up. The key is that you have to provide outstanding service and superior cleaning to compensate for the clients inconvenience. Once you get started I would encourage you to purchase an inexpensive vehicle asap.

Good luck to you.

Wize Guy answers:

You need a business license andpossibly a sales tax licenses. you will need liability insurance but not necessarily a bond. You do not have to pay workers comp if it is just the two of you. You will have to pay the full social security tax as well as unemployement and so on, though. http://envirocleanonline.com

Wize Guy answers:

some sort of contract with the company

Wize Guy answers:

It sounds like you’re thinking about cleaning small offices, like I do, which is one of the most stable of cleaning businesses.
I won’t cost much to start. Your biggest expense will be liability insurance or a bond. Call around to every insurance agent and show for the best price-it varies alot. And, remember, insurance agents need their offices cleaned (Hint)
Supplies are easy-you can make your own cleaning solution. You want a light weight vacuum and can start with a dirt devil, if you want–they’re cheap.
You’ll need a few other things which is why I made a Squidoo lens and blog, both full of information, resources and tips. Links are in my profile.
I think you’ll enjoy your ‘few jobs’. Good Luck!