First Steps in Starting a Janitorial Service

Startup Basics

Small cleaning accounts may require service only once or twice a week. Larger buildings normally require nightly service. Most of the cleaning is performed after business hours. It’s best to start with smaller offices which one or two people can clean in 1-2 hours. Once you are comfortable managing small accounts, you may consider expansion. Simply market your services, add new accounts, and then hire and train more helpers.

The overall routine is not a lot different from cleaning your own home. You empty trash, dust surfaces and wipe spills, dust mop floors, wet mop floors, vacuum carpets, clean rest rooms, refill soap and paper dispensers, and clean entrance doors and drinking fountains.

Basic janitorial cleaning equipment might include a commercial vacuum costing $300-$450, along with a trash pick-up container, mop bucket and press, wet mop, dust mop, dust wand, scraper, and basic cleaning supplies such as all-purpose cleaner, spray bottles, towels, trash bags, bowl cleaner, cleaner-disinfectant, and glass cleaner. Your total supply requirements could run under $700 and would allow you to clean up to $3,000 a month in accounts.

A local janitorial supply store can assist you with choosing the correct cleaning products. Many of the large wholesale clubs and home improvement centers also carry cleaning supplies and tools.

Starting a cleaning business can be accomplished with a fairly low investment.  However, it can take 3-6 months before you are ready to start turning a noticeable profit. By keeping your day job, holding off on expenditures and conserving cash flow, you can weather the initial growth challenges. You still need a small nest egg to start your office cleaning service. 

One other great thing about starting your own janitorial service is that you don’t need all the funds up front.   As you land a new contract, you can purchase additional cleaning supplies and equipment.

Before You Start

You can conduct a market survey to confirm the timing is right to expand a cleaning service into your local community. Simply visit or phone small and medium sized businesses in your area. Inquire if each prospect is happy or unhappy with their current janitorial service. Record the responses so you can follow up with the unhappy prospects at a later time.

There are legal and business requirements to meet when starting a business. Your local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) can advise you of licenses and registration requirements for your city. The U.S. Department of Commerce Small Business Administration (www.sba.gov) is a great source for help in establishing your business structure and meeting accounting, banking, and tax guidelines. You may want to contact an accountant or attorney to assist with the legal and accounting requirements.

For some great resources to start your own janitorial service go here.