How to Start a Home Cleaning Business and Get Clients Quickly

How would you describe the overall cleanliness of your home? Are you one of those who comes home from a long day of work, tosses the mail on the counter, and lets it stack up? When you look in the corners, do you notice piles of clutter, dust bunnies beginning to form, or stacks of laundry waiting for your attention?

Or does your home look a bit different, with everything neat and tidy? Your mirrors glisten and you could eat off your countertops. If this sounds like you and you enjoy seeing the results of a clean home and you have an entrepreneurial spirit, perhaps starting your own home cleaning business could be right up your alley. 

But how do you start a housekeeping business? We’ve got all the tips you need on how to start a residential cleaning business and start raking in the profits. Read on to learn more.

Steps Needed To Start Your House Cleaning Business

1. Create a Business Plan

Your business plan might be the most important step you take in getting your business off the ground. Though the process can be a bit tedious and time-consuming, it is well worth investing the time and energy. This is your opportunity to get all of your great ideas out on paper and turn them into usable and actionable insights that will eventually become the foundation of your new housekeeping business.

Components of Your Business Plan

• Executive Summary: A quick overview of your business goals and vision. Since it summarizes your full plan, it’s usually easiest to write this section last.
  
• Company Description: Explain what your home cleaning business does, who you serve, and what makes it unique.
  
• Market Analysis: Research your competition and define your target market. Who needs your services, and what are they currently paying for similar work?
  
• Services and Pricing: List the types of cleaning services you’ll offer and how you’ll price them. Will you charge flat rates, hourly, per square foot, or by package?
  
• Marketing Plan and Sales Strategy: Detail how you’ll spread the word—social media, word of mouth, partnerships with real estate agents, or other strategies.
  
• Operations Plan: Outline how you’ll run the day-to-day side of your business, including scheduling, customer communication, and supply management.
  
• Management Team: If you plan to hire cleaning employees or work with partners, introduce them here.
  
• Financial Plan: Estimate your overall cleaning business expenses, monthly expenses, and revenue projections to keep your business on a solid financial path.

Set Yourself Apart With Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

What’s your unique selling point (USP)? In a competitive industry, setting yourself apart is key. Will you specialize in eco-friendly products? Offer flexible scheduling? Focus on deep-cleaning services? Knowing what makes your business different will help you attract the right customers and is a big component of your company profile.

Choose The Right Business Structure

Deciding on a business structure—whether an LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, or another option—is an important step. Each structure comes with its own tax responsibilities and liability considerations, so it’s worth looking into which one best fits your plans.

Free resource: Grab a copy of our home cleaning business plan template to organize and present your business strategy.

2. Decide on the Types of Cleaning Services You’ll Offer

When you love to clean and see the results of your work, it can be easy to want to reach for the stars. But offering all services to everyone can be exhausting and if you’re not careful, it can actually diminish the value of your overall brand. So, consider what type of housekeeping business you want to establish. Do you want to offer basic services? Or, do you want to offer more specialized services for unique customer situations?

Here are the typical types of cleaning services to consider. 

• General House Cleaning: Covers routine tasks like dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and sanitizing bathrooms and kitchens. This is a great option for recurring clients who want their homes freshened up on a regular schedule.
  
• Deep Cleaning: A more detailed, top-to-bottom approach that includes tackling hard-to-reach areas, scrubbing baseboards, and removing built-up grime. It’s often requested a few times a year or as a one-time service before events.
  
• Spring Cleaning: Similar to deep cleaning, but with a seasonal focus—decluttering, refreshing home spaces, and making everything feel brand new for the warmer months.
  
• Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning: Designed for renters, landlords, and homeowners, this service involves deep cleaning a home before new tenants arrive or after previous tenants have left. It often includes wiping down cabinets, scrubbing walls, and making the space look move-in ready.
  
• Commercial Cleaning Services: You can also provide cleaning services to businesses, offices, and other commercial buildings. Look for demand for Airbnb, vacation rentals, and similar properties where a home-like environment needs to be maintained for guest satisfaction.

Free template download: Creating accurate price book is essential for any home cleaning company.

3. Register Your Business Name

Now that you know the types of services you will offer, it’s time to come up with and register your business name. But deciding on the name of your home cleaning start-up business takes a bit more thought than you might think. 

First, you want to make sure that your business name is memorable and will resonate with your customers. Second, you want to make sure that the business name you choose is one that is easy to work with on your marketing materials. And third, you want to make sure that the name is original and not already taken by another business in the area. 

So, here’s what to do. 

• Choose a memorable home cleaning business name. Pick something easy to pronounce, spell, and remember. A clever or catchy name can help you stand out, but make sure it still sounds professional.
  
• Check domain name availability and do a trademark search. A quick online search will tell you if the name is available for a website, and a trademark database check can help you avoid legal headaches down the road.
  
• Register your business name and secure any required local business licenses or permits. Check with your city, county, or state for specific requirements. Some locations require a business license even for small, home-based services.
  
• Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes if you plan to hire employees. The IRS provides EINs for free, and having one can help separate your business finances from your personal finances.

4. Get Business Insurance 

We all know what people have to say about insurance—it’s a necessary evil. But here’s the thing. You’ll be working in people’s homes, and things do happen. Your business insurance is there to protect you if someone gets hurt or something in the home gets damaged or broken. Here are the types of insurance you will most likely need for your residential cleaning business. 

• General Liability Insurance: Covers accidental property damage or injuries that occur while cleaning a client’s home.
  
• Business Property Insurance: Protects your cleaning equipment, supplies, and any business-owned property in case of damage or theft.
  
• Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required in most states if you hire employees, this covers medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job.
  
• Commercial Auto Insurance: If you use a vehicle for your cleaning business, this provides coverage for accidents, vehicle damage, or liability claims.
  
• Bonding Insurance: Some clients prefer bonded cleaning services, as it provides extra protection against theft or dishonest acts by employees.

Do I Need Insurance to Clean Houses?

Yes, if you plan to clean houses professionally, you should have insurance. It protects you from potential claims related to property damage or bodily injury that could happen while working in someone’s home. Even the most careful cleaners can run into unexpected mishaps, so having coverage can give both you and your clients peace of mind.

If you’re just starting out, look for small business insurance policies that bundle general liability, equipment protection, and employee-related coverage if you plan to hire a team. Many insurance providers offer flexible plans tailored to home cleaning businesses.

5. Get Funding & Set Up Your Finances 

Though starting a cleaning business doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, it’s not free. And, we can’t emphasize enough the importance of investing in quality equipment and supplies and opening a business account separate from your personal account. 

You’ll also want to apply for a business credit line and get set up with QuickBooks accounting software to help you track your expenses, manage invoices, and create financial reports so you can stay on top of how your business is doing. 

You may also want to seek out a professional accountant who can help keep you in compliance with local and federal laws and regulations that could impact your business. 

How Much Does it Cost to Start a House Cleaning Business? 

Starting a house cleaning business is considered low-cost compared to other small businesses. On average, startup costs range from $2,000 to $10,000, with most falling around $8,000. The final amount depends on factors like your location, the services you offer, and whether you’re starting solo or hiring a team.

Here are the estimated startup costs based on research from around the cleaning industry:

• Cleaning Equipment & Supplies: $500 – $2,000
• Business Insurance: $500 – $3,000
• Licensing & Registration Fees: $100 – $1,000
• Marketing & Branding: $1,000 – $5,000
• Overhead Costs (phone, bookkeeping, uniforms, etc.): $500 – $2,000
• Vehicle Expenses (if applicable): $1,500 – $5,000

Keep Your Business Finances in Check

Marketing is an important expense to factor in, with many experts recommending that cleaning business owners allocate 5% to 10% of total revenue toward marketing efforts. For example, if your business generates $25,000 per month, you might budget $1,250 to $2,500 monthly for local SEO and advertising.

While it’s possible to start small with just the basics, setting aside funds for branding, insurance, and marketing can help establish a professional presence and attract clients faster.

A strong financial foundation is key to long-term success. This balance sheet template helps you track income, expenses, and overall financial health, giving you a clear picture of where your money is going—and how to improve your bottom line.

Grab a free copy: Download the Balance Sheet Template

6. Invest in Modern House Cleaning Supplies

Now it’s time to think about the supplies you will need to complete each job. As we shared above, you’ll likely spend somewhere between $500 and $2,000 to get started. High-quality tools and products will help you work more efficiently and leave a great impression on your clients.

Stock Up on the Essentials

To start, you’ll need basic supplies to finish most house cleaning services. A reliable vehicle is also important if you’ll be traveling between multiple clients each day. Here’s what you’ll need to

• Spray bottles
• Paper towels
• Vacuum cleaner
• Mop
• Trash bags
• Floor cleaner
• Microfiber cloths
• Glass cleaner
• Bathroom cleaners

Invest in Digital Tools Like Cleaning Business Software

Running a cleaning business involves more than just scrubbing and dusting—you’ll also need to manage appointments, track clients, and send invoices. Investing in cleaning service management software can simplify your scheduling process, automate reminders, and help you stay organized as your business grows. Many platforms like Housecall Pro even allow customers to book services online, making it easier to secure new clients.

Having the right tools in place will help you work efficiently while providing top-tier service that keeps satisfied customers coming back.

Stay Stocked & Reduce Supply Costs

Running out of essential supplies mid-job can slow down operations and frustrate clients. This template helps you track and manage your cleaning materials efficiently, ensuring you always have the right products on hand—without overspending.

Free resource: Download the Material List Template

7. Create Pricing & Service Packages

Setting the right pricing structure is important for attracting clients and keeping a profitable, healthy cleaning business. You’ll first need to decide how to charge for your cleaning services—some businesses set rates per room, per square foot, or hourly rates. Researching local cleaning rates will give you a better idea of what customers in your area expect to pay.

When determining prices, consider factors like location, property size, time required for each job, and supply costs. A home with more square footage and multiple bedrooms and bathrooms will naturally take longer to clean than a small apartment, and specialized services may require additional time and supplies.

To give customers flexibility, consider offering add-on services such as appliance cleaning, laundry, or window washing. These extras can increase revenue and provide clients with a more customized experience.

A smart way to structure your services is by offering “Good, Better, Best” cleaning packages. For example:

• Basic Package: General cleaning of high-traffic areas.
• Standard Package: Includes deep cleaning of kitchens, bathrooms, and baseboards.
• Premium Package: Full-home deep cleaning with extras like interior fridge and oven cleaning.

Housecall Pro Helps You Set Competitive & Profitable Rates

Pricing your services correctly can mean the difference between winning more clients and losing money. This tool helps you factor in labor, materials, and overhead to ensure you’re setting prices that are competitive yet profitable—so you never leave money on the table.

Free pricing tool: Use the Price Calculator

8. Market Your New Home Cleaning Business to Get Clients Fast

Earlier, we mentioned that most experts recommend reinvesting 5% to 10% of your total revenue toward your marketing efforts. And this is for good reason. Without marketing and campaigns, all you can rely on is word of mouth, and the chances are that great recommendations won’t be enough to keep your new residential cleaning business afloat. 

A well-rounded approach to marketing will help you attract new customers, build your reputation, and grow your business over time.

Here are some ways to improve your online presence to land more cleaning contracts:

• Build a simple website: Your website should clearly list your services, prices, and contact information. A fast-loading, mobile-friendly site makes it easy for potential customers to reach you.
  
• Create a Google Business Profile: Claim your Google Business Profile and integrate it with Housecall Pro so local customers can find you quickly and book your services without leaving Google.
  
• List your business on online directories: Platforms like Yelp, Thumbtack, and Angi can improve visibility and connect you with customers looking for cleaning services.
  
• Start with low-cost marketing methods: Business cards, flyers, and yard signs can be an affordable way to get your name out in the community.
  
• Offer referral discounts: Reward loyal customers with discounts for referring friends and family. Word-of-mouth recommendations still hold a lot of value, especially when paired with an incentive.

9. Hire and Train Staff 

As your cleaning business grows, there may come a point when you can’t handle the workload alone. If you’re turning away clients or struggling to keep up with appointments, it might be time to bring on additional cleaners to help expand your services.

When hiring, look for reliable, detail-oriented individuals with a strong work ethic. You can find candidates through local job boards, community groups, and referrals from current clients or employees. Conduct interviews to assess professionalism, experience, and willingness to follow cleaning protocols.

Once hired, provide clear training on your cleaning standards, customer service expectations, and any specific techniques you use. A well-trained team not only helps maintain quality but also builds trust with clients.

Standardize Policies & Train Employees Effectively

A well-structured employee handbook sets clear expectations for your team, ensuring professionalism, efficiency, and consistency in service. This template covers company policies, workplace conduct, safety guidelines, and more—helping you build a team that delivers exceptional service every time.

Free resource: Get the Employee Handbook Template

10. Streamline Operations with Home Cleaning Service Software

Running a successful cleaning business involves more than just providing great service—you also need to stay organized. Business management software can help save time, improve customer retention, and keep daily tasks running smoothly. Instead of juggling schedules, invoices, and client communications manually, a good software solution brings everything together in one place.

When choosing cleaning management software, look for features like:

• Mobile App: Manage appointments, client details, and team schedules from anywhere using House Pros’ field service mobile app.
• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Keep track of client information, preferences, and past service history.
• Scheduling & Dispatching: Assign jobs to cleaners and organize your availability with an easy-to-use calendar.
• Customized Cleaning Quotes: Quickly send service quotes to potential customers and track responses.
• Online Booking: Let clients book appointments on your Google Business Profile directly from Google Search & Google Maps.
• Invoicing & Payments: Send invoices and accept payments digitally for faster transactions.
• Sales Lead Pipeline: Organize potential clients and follow up on every lead.
• Review Management: Streamline sending reviews requests for customer feedback to maintain a strong reputation.

Next Steps in Starting Your Home Cleaning Business Venture

Starting a home cleaning business takes planning, effort, and the right tools to keep everything running efficiently. From choosing your services and setting prices to marketing and hiring, every step brings you closer to building a thriving business. As your client list grows, staying organized becomes even more important. 

Housecall Pro’s home cleaning service software helps you manage scheduling, payments, customer relationships, and more—all in one place. Get started with a free 14 day trial today and scale your cleaning business for success!

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