Starting a cleaning business in the UK

Starting a cleaning service means tapping into a growing cleaning market in the UK that’s worth over £55.5bn.

Indeed, the cleaning industry employs five percent of the UK workforce and is firmly in the top ten UK industries for employment..

It’s an expanding sector as busy home owners turn to domestic cleaning services to take on chores at home, and more businesses look to outsource cleaning services to third-party providers.

The same growth can be seen in the domestic sector with one in three UK homes now employing the services of a cleaner, according to research by British Cleaning Council.

Starting a cleaning service has plenty of advantages.

Start-up costs are generally low, and you can start small.

Staff costs, materials and overheads tend to be lower and it requires a less skilled workforce.

Win a few contracts or a host of regular domestic customers.

However, you’ll need to robustly adhere to health and safety rules and there’s lots of competition from other businesses – but get it right and the payback can be rewarding.

We’ve put together a handy guide to starting your own cleaning service but it’s always a good idea to seek independent specialist advice before embarking on any new business venture.

Decide what type of cleaning service to start

Setting up a cleaning service isn’t simply a case of buying cleaning products and hiring staff – you’ll need to develop a clear strategy on the type of business you want to run and which customers it will serve.

In general, there are three types of cleaning service:

• Domestic cleaning involves cleaning people’s homes, often while they’re at work or cleaning the homes of elderly customers who need additional help around the home. Duties may include dusting, vacuuming, cleaning surfaces, mopping floors, doing laundry and ironing. In many cases, you use the client’s cleaning products and home equipment, though you can supply your own at an additional cost. With a hands-on approach, this is a low-cost way to start a cleaning service, with the opportunity to take on staff as you build your client base and grow by word of mouth and local advertising.
• Commercial cleaning involves cleaning large private and public spaces such as offices, schools, banks, hospitals, retail stores to supermarkets and shopping centres. Working during off-peak hours when premises aren’t in use, you’ll need a team of cleaners and specialist equipment. Your role as the boss will typically involve managing your team, dealing with clients and promoting your business. Business is usually contract-based, where you’ll agree to deliver cleaning services for a set period and fee.
• Specialised cleaning businesses run the gamut from carpet and oven cleaning services to window cleaning and car washing.

What skills do I need to start a cleaning business?

Running a domestic or specialist cleaning service will suit anyone who is hard working and happy doing physical, repetitive tasks.

A detailed approach is important – clients will expect sparkling results so it pays to be motivated about keeping things clean.

You’ll typically work alone when starting out – though teams of cleaners are needed for commercial work – and sometimes you’ll work unsociable hours.

You’ll need to be responsible and trustworthy, as you often hold keys to a person’s house or to business premises.

Getting started is relatively straightforward, depending on the type of cleaning service you want to run:

• Starting a domestic cleaning service requires no specific skills or training aside from what you’ve gained looking after your own home. Some basic business skills such as bookkeeping are important.
• To start a commercial cleaning service, it’s a good idea to spend time learning some general business skills for running your business, including business strategy and marketing to managing staff and bookkeeping.
• With specialist cleaning, you’ll need to have experience in your chosen area, such as oven or carpet cleaning. You may also need to invest in specialist equipment and products.
• Both specialist and commercial cleaning operators may wish to join professional bodies such as The British Institute of Cleaning Science which offers accredited training.

Research the cleaning market

Cleaning is highly competitive, with thousands of small cleaning businesses vying for customers.

You’ll need to make sure your cleaning service stands out by carefully researching the market to learn about potential customers, existing competitors, and the types of prices being paid for a range of services you want to offer.

Knowing what price to charge is vital when starting a domestic cleaning service.

Domestic cleaners typically charge an hourly rate.

It’s best to keep your prices fairly similar or either slightly lower to attract new business.

If you choose to charge a higher rate, focus on the high-quality service or extras you offer.

Remember to establish whether your fee includes cleaning products or if will you use those supplied by the client.

Commercial cleaning is equally competitive, and you’ll face competition from established companies all chasing contracts.

Decide on the type of premises you want to focus on, such as large offices or small retail locations, and develop your business so it specializes in these areas.

Calculate costs based on how many hours and staff are required for each space so you can remain competitive, and look for tendering opportunities from local councils or businesses.

How much money do I need to start a cleaning business?

The size of your start-up budget will vary greatly on the size of your cleaning service and the sector you work in.

Setting up a domestic cleaning service on your own requires minimal investment, especially if you use the client’s cleaning products and equipment.

Your initial costs will be limited to fuel or transportation, a website and possibly printed flyers to promote your services.

You may need to invest in a small van and protective clothing.

Commercial cleaning firms cost more to get started, primarily investing in industrial equipment such as trolleys, carpet cleaners, floor polishers, professional vacuum cleaners as well as a larger van.

You’ll also be paying salaries for a cleaning team and you’ll need a larger marketing budget, such as paying for advertising in trade press.

Cleaning franchises

If starting from scratch seems daunting, consider buying a franchise in the cleaning industry.

In domestic cleaning, franchise prices start from around £1,500 up to £17,000 for well-established national brands such as Molly Maid.

In addition, you’ll need working capital in the region of £5,000 to £10,000.

With a franchise you’re buying the rights to an established brand name.

You may get training and advice in running the business along with access to an exclusive territory, branded uniforms and vehicles with logos.

However, attracting customers will still be your responsibility.

Watch this: Want to learn more about what it’s like to operate a cleaning franchise such as Molly Maid? This video talks to a Molly Maid franchise owner: