10 Simple Steps To Start A House Cleaning Business

Starting a house cleaning business is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking for a low-cost, high-demand service with big income potential. The startup costs are minimal, the demand for cleaning services is always growing, and with the right systems in place, this business can provide a stable and lucrative income. Whether you're looking for part-time work or want to build a full-time, six-figure business, house cleaning offers a flexible, high-reward path.

Here are 10 simple steps to help you get started

1. Check Licensing and Permit Requirements

Laws vary from state to state, so the first step is to check with your local government office, county clerk, or Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to understand the licensing and permits you’ll need. Some areas require business licenses, while others might ask for specific permits, like a home occupation permit if you're working out of your home. Be sure to comply with your local regulations to avoid fines or complications down the line.

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2. Choose a Business Name

Your business name should clearly communicate what you do. Including “cleaning service” or “house cleaning” in your business name can make it easy for potential clients to understand what services you offer. Keep it simple and professional. Make a list of a few different names, as there might be other cleaning businesses already using your first choice. You’ll want a unique name that stands out and can be registered without any conflicts.

3. Register Your Business

Once you’ve chosen your business name, the next step is to register it with your state or local authorities. This makes your business official and allows you to legally operate under your chosen name. Depending on where you live, you might register as a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporation, so it’s important to choose the structure that best fits your long-term goals.

4. Open a Business Bank Account

Separating your business finances from your personal ones is crucial for managing your money effectively. Open a business bank account and get a business debit card to use for all business-related purchases and expenses. It’s also smart to open a savings account and deposit 20–30% of your earnings for taxes. Having your finances organized from the start will save you a lot of headaches later on, especially during tax season.

5. Get Insurance

Getting insurance is a must for any house cleaning business. You’ll need general liability insurance to protect yourself in case of accidents or damages that might occur while you're cleaning. You can ask your current insurance agent for recommendations, or get quotes from different companies to find the best coverage for your needs. This will give both you and your clients peace of mind knowing that you're protected.

6. Purchase Basic Cleaning Supplies

While it's tempting to go all out on cleaning equipment, keep it simple when you're first starting. You won’t need to purchase expensive items like vacuums or mops—many clients prefer to provide these themselves for hygienic reasons. Instead, focus on the basics: all-purpose cleaners, Glass cleaner, bleach or bleach alternative ect. As your business grows, you can add more specialized supplies based on the services you offer.

7. Get Business Cards and Flyers

Having business cards and flyers on hand is essential for spreading the word about your new business. You can leave them with clients, post them on community boards, or hand them out when you’re networking locally. Make sure your contact information is easy to read, and your services are clearly listed. Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth marketing in your community!

8. Create Policies, Checklists, and Agreements

Having clear policies, cleaning checklists, and agreements in place is essential for setting your cleaning business up for long-term success. These documents serve as a professional foundation by clearly outlining the services you provide, your rates, and what clients can expect from your work. Not only do they help manage expectations and ensure smooth communication with your clients, but they also protect your business in case of misunderstandings or disputes. You can get all these and all the other essential business forms in the House Cleaning Business Starter Kit. These are the exact forms I created and used in my cleaning business for more than 3 decades!

9. Set Up a Facebook Business Page and Join Local Facebook Groups

A Facebook business page is an excellent, free way to promote your business online. Use it to showcase your services, post client testimonials, and interact with potential clients. Additionally, join local Facebook groups to build relationships with people in your community. Being active in these groups can help you find clients, learn about new opportunities, and get your name out there. Focus on building trust and offering value, not just promoting your services.

10. Build a Client List Focused on Recurring Clients

One of the most important keys to success in the cleaning business is building a list of recurring clients. These clients—whether they need weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly services—will become the backbone of your business. Consistent work from regular clients ensures steady income and helps you grow faster than relying solely on one-time jobs. Focus on providing exceptional service so clients want to keep booking with you long-term.

Ready to take the next step? You don't miss your chance to get the House Cleaning Business Starter Kit

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For over 30 years, Trisha built and ran her own successful cleaning business, handpicking her schedule and consistently earning $5,000+ a month—all while working part-time as a solo cleaner. Now, she’s here to help you do the same! Whether you’re just starting solo or already have a small team, Trisha’s vast experience can help you grow your business and boost profits without adding more hours. She'll teach you how to avoid common mistakes new cleaning business owners make and run your business profitably from day one. With over three decades of experience, learning from Trisha is the fastest, most reliable way to launch or scale your thriving cleaning business!