free sample business plan for cleaning services

Free Cleaning Service Business Plan (Download PDF Sample)

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A cleaning company business plan is a comprehensive document outlining your cleaning company’s objectives and explaining your marketing plan , cleaning services, and funding information. It serves as the blueprint for your cleaning business. 

• Savvy entrepreneurs create a business plan when starting a new business, and they continue to update it as their business grows. 
• A well-written business plan will guide you through your journey as a small business owner. It will help you make critical decisions as you work hard to reach your goals over the years.
• You’ll be able to glimpse the bigger picture and keep track of your progress when you’ve got it all written down.
• A business plan will significantly increase your company’s chances of success , setting a clear path to long-term growth and helping you plan efficient organizational processes. 

If you’re aiming to gain the trust of potential investors, a business plan is a must-have tool that will show them if your business is worth taking the risk.

We’ve created a downloadable cleaning services business plan PDF that you can easily edit to fit your needs. Get my sample template below:

Components of a Cleaning Services Business Plan 

Now that you understand the importance of a cleaning company business plan, the next step is to start creating your own. But there’s no need to worry! We’ve done much of the legwork to ease the process of creating a business plan for you. 

Our free downloadable cleaning services business plan PDF contains essential components to help you define your goals and make better business decisions. 

However, keep in mind that every business plan is unique. You can remove or add any section as you deem necessary to create the best business plan for your cleaning company. 

Include the following elements to get started in the right direction: 

1. Executive Summary 

The first part of a comprehensive business plan is an executive summary, which provides an overview of your company and summarizes your entire business plan.

Highlight what makes your cleaning business stand out from competitors in the cleaning industry. You can also describe the weaknesses and shortcomings of other cleaning firms and how your company aims to solve these problems. 

You can include the following information in your executive summary: 

• Owner’s experience
• Mission statement
• The leadership team and employees
• Financial and growth goals

2. Company Description 

• Why did you decide to start a cleaning services company?
• What particular problems are you trying to solve, and how do you intend to beat competitors in the cleaning industry?

Your company description is where you emphasize the strengths and competitive advantages of your cleaning business. 

3. Objectives

Set the best objectives that will help keep your cleaning business on the right track.

• Think about the key goals you want to achieve, whether to reach a certain amount of sales revenue or expand your operations to a broader service area.
• When you carefully define your main goals and objectives, you’ll be able to take the proper steps to get where you want to go. 

4. Market Analysis

Market analysis gives you an insight into your target market share, the needs and demands of your customers, and your competitors.

• Do some research about the cleaning company industry and what your competitors lack to know how your company can gain an edge over others.
• With proper market analysis, you can also analyze the need for funding from financial institutions and investors. 

5. Organizational Structure 

• Define the specific roles that need to be filled, such as cleaners, an office manager, and a project manager.
• You can also talk about hiring competent personnel as your company grows and outsourcing services for processes like digital marketing and accounting. 

6. Cleaning Services

An essential part of a cleaning company business plan is identifying the type of cleaning services you intend to provide: 

• Scope of Cleaning Services – Do you plan to focus on bidding on commercial janitorial jobs , residential cleaning, housekeeping, post-construction cleaning or all types?
• List of Specific Cleaning Services – Talk about your company’s services and prices, from interior home cleaning and damage restoration to industrial cleaning. 
• Benefits of Your Cleaning Services – How will your target market benefit from your company’s services? Think about the problems you’re trying to solve for your customers, like giving them a wide selection of cleaning services to reduce the need for hiring multiple contractors. 

7. Marketing and Sales 

To survive in a competitive industry, your cleaning business needs to employ tailored marketing strategies to help you stand out and beat competitors.

Outline your marketing and sales strategies to promote your cleaning services, gain leads, and ultimately boost sales. You should determine the number of clients you must win to achieve your cleaning company’s profit goals. 

The most effective marketing strategies for cleaning businesses include: 

• Online Marketing – Your objectives can include building an authoritative business cleaning service website design , using paid advertising like Facebook ads , leveraging social media, implementing email marketing, and maintaining an excellent reputation online. 
• Offline Advertising – Timeless strategies include direct mail, distributing pamphlets and flyers, connecting with the local community, and creating branded merchandise. 

8. Funding Requests 

• Add this section if you need additional funding for day-to-day functions and operational expenses.
• You can create a table outlining your cleaning company’s expenses, letting potential investors and lenders know precisely where their money will go. 

9. Financial Projections 

Your cleaning company business plan should have a realistic financial forecast based on your extensive market analysis and company goals.

• It should include well-researched financial projections for the future to demonstrate your targeted profits. 
• Try to include a cash flow estimate, capital expenditures, and approximate payrolls for the next few years.
• You can create an annual or quarterly target profit that your team can work to accomplish. 

Pro-Top : include a cash flow estimate, capital expenditures, and approximate payrolls for the next few years. You can create an annual or quarterly target profit that your team can work to accomplish. 

10. Appendix

Your business plan ends with an appendix where you add all relevant documents, definitions, legal notes, and other critical information.

• You can include resumes, certifications, bank statements, credit reports, charts, and other supporting documents. 
• Refer readers to this section anywhere in your business plan when necessary. For example: “See Appendix, page 5, for management team certifications.”

Example of a Cleaning Services Business Plan PDF

You can open or download our free cleaning business plan PDF below:

To get an editable version on Google Docs, enter your email below:

Why Does My Cleaning Company Need a Business Plan? 

You might think, “But making a business plan sounds like a lot of work! Do I really need it for my cleaning company?” The quick answer is: Yes, you definitely need that business plan!

As tedious as it sounds, preparing a strategic business plan is crucial to set yourself up for success and not get lost along the way. 

Take a look at the following key reasons why your business will benefit from a cleaning company business plan: 

Find Out If Your Cleaning Services Business Idea Is Viable

Creating a business plan will help you test if your business idea is feasible, saving you time, money, and energy. Many aspiring entrepreneurs believe they have outstanding ideas that could never fail.

However, around 20% of business startups fail during the first year due to a lack of planning, among other things. 

To survive the cleaning business startup phase, you must perform careful and methodical planning and create a well-developed business plan. It’s the key step between visualizing the concept for your cleaning company and turning your vision into a successful business. 

Increase Your Chances of Growth and Success 

The cleaning industry is enormous, and competitive residential and commercial cleaning businesses are everywhere. There’s always demand for cleaning services. Around 80% of households in the US are expected to use home cleaning services by 2024. 

Considering the competition you’ll be facing, it helps to create a business plan that will help you identify how your cleaning company will stand out. 

• Extensive planning will help you pinpoint your target market, determine your unique selling proposition, and develop a startup and operating expenses budget.
• This process will ultimately set your cleaning business up for long-term growth and success.

Secure Financing

Established financial institutions, lenders, and investors typically perform an extensive investigation before committing to an investment. With a solid business plan, you’ll be more likely to secure the funds you need to get your business up and running. 

Common Questions about Cleaning Company Business Plans

A business plan will help you determine if your cleaning business idea is viable, increase your chances of success, and secure financing.

An executive summary includes a mission statement, information about the leadership team, and financial goals.

Final Thoughts: Driving Your Cleaning Company’s Success With a Solid Business Plan 

Equipped with a well-researched business plan, you’ll have much higher chances of succeeding in the cleaning services industry. It’s also a valuable tool that can help you secure funding for your operational expenses as a cleaning startup. 

After downloading our free cleaning services business plan PDF, make sure to edit each section and include all essential information to create a comprehensive document.

Our free sample cleaning company business plan serves as an excellent starting point – a helpful template that you can personalize as necessary.

Written by Nelmie Jane Pardo

Nelmie Jane Pardo is a senior contributing writer who lends insight into digital marketing methods and business solutions. She regularly writes at BusinessHue to help business owners take their online marketing to the next level.

Free Resources for the

Determine How Much You Can Sell Your Cleaning Business For

The best sales pitch for cleaning businesses (examples), how to bid a cleaning job in 2022: 9 simple steps, commercial cleaning rates: 2023 price per square foot chart.

Cleaning Business Plan Template (+Free PDF Download)

Read Time 8 minutes

Author Joanne Bratton

Published March 29, 2024

Download the Guide

Table of Contents

Executive summary: Setting the foundation

Industry analysis: understanding the market landscape, marketing plan: promoting your cleaning services, financial plan: estimating costs and projections, operations plan: running a thriving cleaning company, set up your commercial cleaning business for success.

A commercial cleaning business plan can kickstart a new endeavor or clear the way for growth for an existing enterprise.

Crafting a comprehensive commercial cleaning business plan is pivotal to starting a new venture or fostering significant growth in an existing service. A well-structured business plan becomes a cornerstone for:

Making informed decisions

Setting objectives

Navigating the competitive commercial cleaning market

A cleaning company business plan isn’t a one-and-done task. You should regularly review and revise your business plan to evolve as your company grows to reflect your current vision, market, and financial targets.

This template provides a sample to help create a business plan.

An executive summary is an overview of your entire business plan.

While the executive summary is the first section of a business plan, most business owners find it makes sense to write it last. The executive summary often is one to two pages, but you should keep it as short as possible.

Essential components of an executive summary include:

Mission statement: Defines your company's mission, vision, and core values.

Company overview: Write a company description of services, locations, and number of cleaning staff. Include a short history of how the business started, names of owners, and business growth milestones.

Market synopsis: Provide an overview of your market, mentioning your commercial cleaning business's size and competitive advantages.

Financial elements: Summarize your business financials, including sales, profits, and projections for one to two years.

Future objectives: Outline your company’s plans for growth, such as offering new services, adding verticals, or expanding your service area.

Your executive summary must be clear and concise. If you’re seeking funding for your small business, the executive summary should demonstrate your cleaning company’s value to potential investors.

An industry analysis identifies the potential market for your commercial cleaning or janitorial services. This involves defining and comprehending key elements such as:

Target customers

Competition

Cleaning industry trends 

Customer’s changing demands

Customer analysis

Commercial cleaning companies perform a customer analysis to understand and meet customer needs. This research-based process identifies your potential client base's demographics, values, and behaviors.

To perform a customer analysis:

Gather information about your target market through your existing customer data, industry research, online tools such as Google Analytics, and social media surveys.

Segment your customers based on similar demographics, traits, preferences, and pain points.

Create customer personas, or fictional profiles, of your target customers and their specific needs.

Leverage your customer analysis to inform business services, products, and prices.

Customer relationship management (CRM) software assists market analysis by providing invaluable information about your customers and their buying journeys.

→ Aspire commercial cleaning business software helps businesses connect the dots with real-time customer data, feedback, and analysis. 

CRM data empowers companies to retain existing customers and expand their customer base by cultivating strong relationships with prospects and customers through:

Efficient communication

Personalized offers

Proactive support to address potential issues before they escalate

Competitor analysis

A competitive analysis identifies the competitors in your market. It helps you understand market demand and gives your business a competitive edge.

For instance, if you plan to specialize in carpet cleaning or window cleaning, you’ll want to know if competitors offer these services and what they charge.

Steps to perform a competitor analysis include:

Identify and gather information about your competitors.

Evaluate competitors’ services, service areas, prices, promotions, reputation, sales tactics, marketing strategies, target audience, and online presence.

Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your business.

Develop sales, marketing, and pricing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

Once you know your customers and competitors, these assessments will help you develop effective marketing campaigns.

While a service business plan template provides a guideline for developing a marketing plan , it’s crucial to identify your company’s marketing goals and include methods to measure outcomes.

An effective marketing plan includes the following components:

Market research: Know your audience, their preferences, and their preferred online channels.

Marketing objectives: What do you want to accomplish? Increase cleaning contracts? Generate leads? The more specific your objectives, the better.

Marketing strategies: The marketing channels you use depend on your target audience. The most effective marketing campaigns use an omnichannel approach to share a consistent message online and offline.

Pricing strategy : A cleaning service pricing strategy should cover costs and include an appropriate profit margin. Your target market preferences and competitor pricing should also be factored into your pricing strategy.

Marketing budget: Determine the percentage of revenue for your marketing budget. Focus on the channels that deliver the best return on investment (ROI). You can adjust your budget depending on objectives, channels, and results.

Key performance indicators (KPIs): Measure marketing effectiveness with KPIs. These could include conversion rate, customer acquisition cost, cost per lead, customer lifetime value, and overall ROI. Track KPIs to make better marketing decisions and improve your ROI.

Review your marketing plan annually. Some businesses review their marketing strategy and budget quarterly to adjust as needed.

A solid financial plan ensures your commercial cleaning business doesn’t just stay afloat but thrives.

To get funding for business operations, you’ll need a realistic estimate of: 

Initial startup costs

Ongoing operational expenses

Financial projections 

A comprehensive, realistic financial plan shows potential partners and investors the value of your company and outlines business growth.

→ Include graphs and visuals in your financial plan to break down the numbers and easily communicate business information.

If you struggle with financial planning or creating budgets and forecasts, consider hiring a professional financial advisor.

The right business management software makes collecting accurate data in your initial months much easier to ensure your initial estimate and projections are sound. 

→ The earlier you can adjust operations and pricing to maintain profitability, the quicker you can set and achieve new goals.

The following sections provide more detail about key areas of a financial plan.

Calculating initial startup costs

Initial startup costs cover one-time expenses for a new cleaning or janitorial business.

While startup expenses vary based on several factors, the average cleaning service spends $3,500 on startup costs .

Startup costs may include:

Legal fees: If you seek the advice of legal professionals, you’ll need to budget for legal expenses.

Business licenses and permits: Check on local regulations because you may need to register in additional states if your business performs work or hires employees from another state.

Cleaning equipment: Equipment such as floor buffers, vacuums, brooms, mops, cleaning supplies , cleaning products, and other specialty equipment.

Office space and equipment: Property purchase or rental deposit for an office space and technology costs.

Company vehicles: Depending on the size of your company, you may use a fleet of branded company vehicles.

Operational software : Instead of implementing siloed solutions for different aspects of your business, look at comprehensive software capable of scaling with you as you build. 

You’ll also want to consider additional marketing and advertising dollars to spread the word about your business.

A clear understanding of operational expenses ensures you correctly price cleaning jobs and target realistic revenue goals.

Recurring expenses are costs you pay regularly to keep your business running. Ongoing expenditures include:

Employee payroll and benefits

Mortgage or rental payments

Office utilities

Business insurance

Vehicle insurance

Cleaning products and supplies

Equipment maintenance

Technology subscriptions

Some expenses may be fixed, such as the mortgage payment, while others may be variable, such as the cost of cleaning products. 

Follow a budget, use best-practice accounting procedures, and track expenses to make needed financial adjustments.

Aspire’s comprehensive business management software collects financials above the gross margin line and pushes them in a one-way data sync to your accounting platform so you have clean, accurate data to inform your business plan updates. 

Financial projections and realism

Financial projections predict business revenue over a certain period. Data-backed financial plans drive better business decisions and help you plan for the future.

A startup cleaning business uses projected financial statements to determine future revenue and expenses. Industry and market analysis data can provide a starting point. In the case of an established cleaning business, use your historical data to project a percentage of financial growth.

To create a financial projection, you’ll need the following financial statements:

Income statement: An income statement, or profit and loss statement (P&L), shows your income and expenses. Your income statement should cover one year.

Cash flow statement: This statement projects all incoming and outgoing expenses for one year. A break-even analysis shows you how much revenue you need to break even with your expenses.

Balance sheet: This document lists business assets and liabilities and shows a summary of a business at present. 

In financial projections, accuracy is key. You don’t want to inflate your numbers, fail to reach your goals, or underestimate and miss out on growth opportunities.

As your business continues to operate, it’s important to use the right software to capture accurate financial data to achieve financial objectives and increase the accuracy of future projections. 

Aspire commercial cleaning business software integrates purchasing, invoicing, accounting, and payroll for full financial visibility. Robust reporting allows you to drill into sales, financials, job costs, and KPIs.

With real-time data , you gain deeper insight into business performance and can develop more effective business growth strategies.

A business operations plan outlines how your company will deliver high-quality service and achieve operational goals.

As you create an operations plan, involve your management team for ideas and input. After all, your managers are the ones who provide on-the-job oversight and remain accountable for operational goals.

An operations plan includes these elements:

Determine operational goals: Set business and departmental  goals. For instance, you could set a goal to increase annual revenue by 20% or a sales goal of 10 new cleaning contracts monthly.

Create roles and job descriptions: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each position. This ensures accountability and the ability to measure performance.

Plan the how-tos: Detail business processes and workflows in every department so your team delivers consistent, efficient results. This includes investing in commercial cleaning business software to centralize data and streamline operations.

Track performance: Set KPIs to measure short-term goals and identify areas for improvement. Operational KPIs measure the performance of your operations, such as average contract amount, contract renewal conversion rate, closing percentage, and gross profit percentage by department. 

Aspire provides user-based dashboards so every role can see the KPIs relevant to their short- and long-term goals. Having accurate, real-time information fuels responsive management, building ongoing growth momentum.

Commercial cleaning business owners who optimize operations experience the greatest profitability and growth. Aspire commercial cleaning business software provides seamless workflows in every area of business, including:

Crew management

Job costing

Equipment and supply management

Streamlined processes reduce waste, increase efficiency, and improve performance in your operations.

Creating a thorough commercial cleaning business plan sets the stage for business growth. But successful results rely on how well you execute your plan.

Aspire commercial cleaning business software provides industry-specific management tools to empower business owners to take control of operations. From simplified scheduling to accepting customer credit card payments online, Aspire’s advanced features give cleaning contractors full visibility into business operations and finances.

To get your business plan off the ground, implement the right tools to improve business and boost year-over-year growth.

Ready to see what Aspire can do for you? Request a demo to see Aspire features in action.

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How To Write a Cleaning Services Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for cleaning services businesses that want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every cleaning services business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Cleaning Business Plan Template

What is a Cleaning Services Business Plan?

A cleaning services business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write a Cleaning Services Business Plan?

A cleaning services business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Cleaning Services Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful cleaning services business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a cleaning services business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your cleaning services company
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your cleaning services business, you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your cleaning services firm, mention this.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of a cleaning services business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the cleaning services industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, the customers of a cleaning services business may include:

• Small businesses
• Commercial businesses
• Industrial businesses

List the needs and wants of each customer segment, as they relate to your cleaning services. For example, a small business owner may need their office cleaned on a regular basis, but may not have the time or resources to do it themselves. Conversely, a homeowner may want their home cleaned but may not be willing to pay for professional services.

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or cleaning services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, launch a direct mail campaign. Or, you may promote your cleaning services business via word-of-mouth.

Operations Plan

This part of your cleaning services business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for a cleaning services business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include expanding to a new city or adding additional services.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific cleaning services industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss.

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Cleaning Services Business

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Cleaning Services Business

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup cleaning services business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Cleaning Services Business

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your cleaning services company. It not only outlines your business vision, but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

Now that you know what should be included in a cleaning services business plan, it’s time to get started on writing your own. The template we’ve provided can help you get started, but don’t forget to personalize it to reflect your unique company and its goals.   

Finish Your Cleaning Business Plan in 1 Day!

Wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Cleaning business plan?

With our Ultimate Cleaning Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

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Business Plan for a Cleaning Business: Complete Guide

• January 30, 2023

👇 Check all our resources on cleaning businesses 👇

Whether you’re looking to raise funding from private investors or to get a loan from a bank (like a SBA loan) for your cleaning business, you will need to prepare a solid business plan.

In this article we go through, step-by-step, all the different sections you need in the business plan of your cleaning business. Use this template to create a complete, clear and solid business plan that get you funded.

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary of a business plan gives a sneak peek of the information about your business plan to lenders and/or investors.

If the information you provide here is not concise, informative, and scannable, potential lenders and investors may lose interest.

Why do you need a business plan for a cleaning business?

The purpose of a business plan is to secure funding through one of the following channels:

• Obtain bank financing or secure a loan from other lenders (such as a SBA loan )
• Obtain private investments from investment funds, angel investors, etc.
• Obtain a public or private grant

How to write an executive summary for a cleaning business?

Provide a precise and high-level summary of every section that you have included in the business plan for your cleaning business. The information and the data you include in this segment should grab the attention of potential investors and lenders immediately. Ensure that the executive summary doesn’t exceed 2 pages in total.

The executive summary usually consists of the five major sub-sections that include:

• Business overview : introduce what services your cleaning business offers (commercial vs. residential cleaning), what type of customers you focus on (individuals, businesses, factories, etc.), any specific cleaning service you focus on (e.g. carpet cleaning), your company structure and, more importantly, how and why you want to start such a business today
• Market overview : the market overview section will contain an overview of the expected market size and growth of the cleaning industry in your area as well as your target customers. Another important part of any market overview is a clear and thorough analysis of your competitors
• People : introduce your company’s management and employee structure. Provide a brief (no more than a couple of sentences each) of the experience of the team. Also, speak about your hiring plans: who will you hire and who will report to whom?
• Financial plan : how much profit and revenue do you expect in the next 5 years? When will you reach break-even point and start making profits? Include here your key financials such as revenue, gross profits, and net profit
• Funding ask : what loan/investment/grant are you seeking? How much do you need? How long will this last?

Cleaning Financial Model

Download an expert-built 5-year Excel financial model for your business plan

2. Business Overview

The business overview section is sometimes called the company description and is one of the most important parts of the cleaning business plan.

Here, you will want to provide crucial information about your cleaning business, including your services, pricing structure , customers, and company structure.

a) History of the Project

This is a brief description of your business, outlining its origin and your reasons for venturing into this field. As one would put it, it answers a major question about business; why a cleaning company? 

When starting a cleaning business, you want to use all your best tools to show the lenders and investors that your passion is deeply built around the need to fill an existing market gap. For example, you would argue that many customers in your area need eco-friendly cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, or commercial kitchen cleaning services.

b) Business Model

You should be clear if you are opening an independent cleaning company or partnering. Also, make it clear if you are buying an existing franchise.

Franchising has an added advantage of simplicity, given an already established market base. However, every model has its risks and benefits. So, choose what’s best for your target market and long-term goals. 

c) Services

Don’t get it twisted. Cleaning companies offer a range of services to their consumers depending on the business location and demand. So, an important aspect of laying a solid foundation is to explain to your customers what they should expect from your business. In other words, what type of cleaning services do you intend to offer? 

The 2 main categories of cleaning services are: residential and commercial cleaning.

Residential cleaning targets private residences and homes. If you choose this option, you can specialize in home maintenance, move-in and move-out cleaning, deep cleaning, green cleaning, and residential event cleanups. 

On the other hand, commercial cleaning suits businesses and requires significant manpower, more space, and sophisticated equipment. You can’t run this business in some regions without enough vehicles to transport your equipment. 

If you plan to specialize in commercial cleaning, you can focus on general office cleaning tasks, large-scale specialized cleaning, construction cleanups, commercial kitchen cleaning, and hazardous waste cleaning.

d) Pricing Strategy

Another important part of the business overview section is your pricing structure. It should be as clear as possible because investors will rely on it when assessing your financial need.

Most cleaning companies in the US set their rates per square foot, per room, per hour, or as a flat fee. And the standard national hourly cost of house cleaning services in the US ranges from $50 to $90 per hour per cleaner.  

e) Target Customers

Who is your ideal customer? And which cleaning services do they need? You might have already identified your target market if you can answer these questions correctly. 

For instance, if private residences and apartments dominate the region, many individuals will probably need residential cleaning services. Make sure you offer that.

Similarly, a busy city center with many offices and commercial properties will probably benefit from commercial cleaning services as mentioned above. Identifying your target market is one of the fastest ways to increase revenue potential after assessing the competition. 

f) Legal Structure

Finally, your business overview section should specify what type of business structure you want. Is this a corporation or a partnership (LLC)? Who are the investors? How much equity percentage do they own? Is there a Board of Directors? If so, whom? Do they have experience in the industry?

3. Market Overview

To run a successful business, you need all the facts that back your decision to start a cleaning company in the region at that time. Market analysis will help you identify the level of competition in the region and whether the investment is worth it. 

For example, offering commercial cleaning services in a residential setup would make little sense. Similarly, overpricing your services when the dominant population is low to middle-income earners won’t fast-track business growth. 

a) Cleaning Business Industry Status Quo

This section should answer two obvious questions about your cleaning business;

• What is the market size of the cleaning industry in your area? 
• How fast is the cleaning industry growing? 

Both questions will help you set realistic expectations when getting into this field, having analyzed the market trends and size. 

How big is the cleaning industry in the US?

It’s always good to start any market overview by assessing the market size at a national level.

Of course, the figures may not represent the actual status of the cleaning business in your region, but they offer a solid foundation for building a thriving business. According to the latest statistics, the cleaning service industry in the US had a value of $97.6 billion in 2022 . 

The staggering need for cleaning services means that the commercial cleaning sector will likely grow at a steady rate of 5.4% up to 2025 . Although this may be a good sign for setting up your cleaning business, you should also assess market growth in your area (see below).

How big is the cleaning industry in your area?

Getting the market data at the city level gives you a clearer picture of what to expect from the market. It may complicated, but you only need the total number of cleaning companies in your region and their services to assess your area’s market size.

For example, let’s assume you want to get into the carpet cleaning business. With close to 32,000 carpet cleaning businesses in the US, and a total market value of $4 billion (carpet cleaning US market), we can safely assume each carpet cleaning business generates $125,000 in sales per year on average.

Now, assuming there are 25 competitors in your area, the estimated market size of the carpet cleaning industry in your area is $3.1 million.

How fast is the cleaning industry growing in your area?

You may need to analyze multiple factors to determine the growth rate of the cleaning industry in your region. Sometimes, this involves a few calculations to get an actual figure when drawing your conclusion. 

For example, if the region had 120 cleaning companies in 2020, which increased to 150 in 2022, you can assume that the industry is growing at a steady rate of 12% per year. 

Pay attention to all factors that may directly impact the growth rate, including a population influx, increased demand, and increased income potential. 

However, don’t be shocked if you notice a successive drop in the demand for cleaning services in the region. This is possible even when the national statistics show otherwise. Its part and parcel of the business and could indicate that this isn’t the right time to launch a cleaning company. 

b) Cleaning Business Competitor Analysis

Another crucial step in the business plan of your cleaning company is to assess the existing competition. There are a couple of questions to guide you here, including;

• How many cleaning companies are there in your region?
• What services do they offer (residential, commercial cleaning, or both)?
• What’s the average price of hiring a cleaning company in the region?
• What’s the total number of individuals employed by a typical cleaning company in the region? 
• How many customers do they serve per week/month? 

Why do you need a competitive analysis in the business plan of your cleaning business?

Assessing the competition in the area where you plan to start your cleaning business will allow to better understand whether there is sufficient demand, and whether you are well positioned to take market share from competitors.

For example, starting a new business would make perfect sense under the following circumstances;

• There’s a clear market gap that you can fill in the region (For example, offering a service that other companies might have missed, like eco-friendly/green cleaning) 
• There are no or inadequate cleaning companies in the region. This would present the perfect opportunity to tap into the market potential and grow a thriving business. 

c) Cleaning Business Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section is almost similar to your target audience . However, this is your chance to prove to the lenders that your target market is real and available. You can use the following questions to analyze your client base; 

• Which individuals need cleaning services in the region? 
• What’s the average income of the individuals in the region? (This is also important when determining your pricing structure)
• Which cleaning services are they interested in?
• How often do they need cleaning services? (daily, weekly, monthly)
• Are they more likely to benefit from commercial or residential cleaning services?

Usually, the level of competition in the region also influences your customer analysis. So, that should be clear to help you determine the market demand or predict the success of your cleaning business.

4. Sales & Marketing

The sales and marketing strategy sums up your plans for acquiring new clients. Here are a few helpful questions to guide you:

• Which marketing channels are best suited to your business (online vs. offline marketing)?
• Do you have a unique selling point? If so, what is it?
• What is your marketing budget for the first months / year?
• How can you track the success of your marketing strategy?
• Do you plan to offer any promotions to attract new customers? 

Cleaning Business Marketing Channels

You can use the following channels for marketing your cleaning business locally;

• Pay-per-click campaigns (e.g. Google ads)
• Email, SMS marketing
• Social media content & ads 
• Word-of-mouth advertising
• TV and radio advertisement

What are your Unique Selling Points (USPs)?

A unique selling point is what puts you ahead of the rest. It’s no secret that you will face stiff competition from established cleaning companies in the field. So, how you set yourself apart matters. Some factors to consider include;

• Price : Cheaper services than your competitors
• Location : Your proximity to the target market gives you a slight edge over the rest
• Quality : Stellar cleaning services with modern equipment will attract more clients

5. Management & People

You must address 2 things here:

• The management team and their experience/track record
• The organizational structure: different team members and who reports to whom?

a) Management

Small businesses often fail because of managerial weaknesses . Thus, having a strong management team is vital. Highlight the experience and education of senior managers that you intend to hire to oversee your commercial cleaning business.

Describe their duties, responsibilities, and roles. Also, highlight their previous experience and explain how they succeeded in their previous roles.

It is also important that you explain how their experiences and qualifications help you in offering the services you are proposing. If they have specialized training and education (such as carpet cleaning, industrial cleaning, etc.), add that information too.

b) Organizational Structure

Even if you haven’t already hired a senior manager and any other relevant staff members, you must provide a flowchart of the organizational structure defining the hierarchy of reporting as shown below.

6. Financial Plan

The financial plan is perhaps, with the executive summary, the most important section of any business plan for a cleaning company.

Indeed, a solid financial plan tells lenders that your business is viable and can repay the loan you need from them. If you’re looking to raise equity from private investors, a solid financial plan will prove them your cleaning business is an attractive investment.

There should be 3 sections to your financial plan section:

• Your historical financials (only if you already operate the business and have financial accounts to show)
• The startup costs of your project (if you plan to start a new cleaning business, purchase new equipment, etc.)
• The 5-year financial projections

a) Historical Financials (if any)

In the scenario where you already have some historical financials (a few quarters or a few years), include them. A summary of your financial statements in the form of charts e.g. revenue, gross profit and net profit is enough, save the rest for the appendix.

If you don’t have any, don’t worry, most new businesses don’t have any historical financials and that’s ok. If so, jump to Startup Costs instead.

b) Startup Costs

Before we expand on 5-year financial projections in the following section, it’s always best practice to start with listing the startup costs of your project.

For a cleaning business, startup costs are all the expenses you incur before you start making sales. Luckily, these expenses are rather low for cleaning companies and mostly include the cost to purchase equipment and the vehicle you will use to transport them.

As an example, it costs on average $73,500 – $167,500 to start a small commercial cleaning business with 2 vans and 4 employees. We have laid out below estimates for the key startup costs you can expect for a cleaning business.

Note that these costs are for illustrative purposes and may not be fully relevant for your business. For more information on how much it costs to start and run a cleaning business, read our article here .

c) Financial Projections

In addition to startup costs, you will now need to build a solid 5-year financial model for your cleaning business.

Your financial projections should be built using a spreadsheet (e.g. Excel or Google Sheets) and presented in the form of tables and charts in the business plan of your cleaning business.

As usual, keep it concise here and save details (for example detailed financial statements, financial metrics, key assumptions used for the projections) for the appendix instead.

Your financial projections should answer at least the following questions:

• How much revenue do you expect to generate over the next 5 years?
• When do you expect to break even?
• How much cash will you burn until you get there?
• What’s the impact of a change in pricing (say 20%) on your margins?
• What is your average customer acquisition cost?

You should include here your 3 financial statements (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement). This means you must forecast:

• The number of customers over time ;
• Your expected revenue ;
• Operating costs to run the business ;
• Any other cash flow items (e.g. capex, debt repayment, etc.).

When projecting your revenue, make sure to sensitize pricing and the number of customers as a small change in these assumptions will have a big impact on your revenues.

7. Funding Ask

This is the last section of the business plan of your cleaning business. Now that we have explained what your company is about, the services you offer and to whom, what’s your strategy, where you go and how you get there, this section must answer the following questions:

• How much funding do you need?
• What financial instrument(s) do you need: is this equity or debt, or even a free-money public grant?
• How long will this funding last?
• Where else does the money come from? If you apply for a SBA loan for example, where does the other part of the investment come from (your own capital, private investors?)

If you raise debt:

• What percentage of the total funding the loan represents?
• What is the corresponding Debt Service Coverage Ratio ?

If you raise equity

• What percentage ownership are you selling as part of this funding round?
• What is the corresponding valuation of your business?

Use of Funds

Any business plan should include a clear use of funds section. This is where you explain how the money will be spent.

Will you spend most of the loan / investment in paying your employees’ salaries? Or will it cover mostly the cost for the lease deposit and the renovation?

Those are very important questions you should be able to answer in the blink of an eye. Don’t worry, this should come straight from your financial projections. If you’ve built solid projections like in our Cleaning financial model template , you won’t have any issues answering these questions.

For the use of funds, we also recommend using a pie chart like the one we have in our financial model template where we outline the main expenses categories as shown below.

Privacy Overview

Cleaning Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Business Plan Outline

• Cleaning Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan

Cleaning Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Cleaning business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Cleaning businesses.

Below are links to each section of your Cleaning service business plan template:

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Cleaning Business Plan FAQs

What is a cleaning business plan.

A cleaning company business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your cleaning business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your cleaning company business plan using our Cleaning Business Plan Template here .

What Are the Main Types of Cleaning Businesses?

The most common cleaning service businesses are residential and commercial cleaning businesses. There are also cleaning service businesses that offer more specific services like windows cleaning, washing, carpet cleaning, swimming pool cleaning, and car washing.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenues and Expenses for a Cleaning Business?

The primary source of revenue for a cleaning business is its cleaning fees. Most companies charge an hourly rate for their services.

The key expenses for a cleaning business are labor expenses and supplies.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Cleaning Service Business Plan?

Cleaning company business plans are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding. This is true for a cleaning service business plan and a commercial cleaning business plan.

What are the Steps To Start a Cleaning Business?

Starting a cleaning business and becoming a business owner can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals, get started faster and lead to a thriving business.

1. Develop A Cleaning Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed cleaning business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the cleaning services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your cleaning business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your cleaning business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Cleaning Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your cleaning business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your cleaning business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Cleaning Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your cleaning business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your cleaning business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful cleaning business and cleaning business planning:

• How to Start a Cleaning Business

Where Can I Get a Cleaning Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free cleaning business plan template PDF here . This is a sample cleaning business plan template you can use in PDF format.

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How to write an effective cleaning services business plan

Key takeaways

• Write your executive summary last to create the most compelling start
• Include an actionable business strategy and clear financial plan to prove your growth potential
• Frame your cleaning business in a positive light—especially for lenders and others outside your team—but always be realistic

Cleaning your house—sweeping, mopping, vacuuming—are chores everyone has to do but few people love. It’s no wonder thousands of homeowners and business owners across the country outsource their cleaning every year. With a strategic cleaning services business plan , you can start a profitable new business that makes the most of this demand.

Here are six key sections you need to include in your business plan template to help you successfully start your cleaning company .

1. Executive summary

Every cleaning services business plan starts with a compelling executive summary that offers a concise overview of its contents.

First impressions are important, and the executive summary is your first chance to introduce your business and explain your purpose. If you’re sharing your business plan outside of your team—perhaps to lenders or potential business partners—it’s crucial to make your summary as enticing as possible. If not, they may not even read the rest of your plan. 

Even if you’re only sharing your business plan within your management team, a strong start gives busy managers the key facts about your business. This allows them to understand and implement your purpose and values until they have time to sift through the more detailed parts of your business plan. An executive summary also helps excite your team about the business they’re helping to build.

A solid executive summary should include:

• A brief intro to your business
• Your mission statement , which is a short, powerful phrase that defines what you do (for example, “to provide healthier, safer workspaces for professionals”)
• What makes you stand out, as compared to other cleaning services
• An overview of your business strategy and financial plan

Keep your summary brief and put the most impressive facts forward. This section should be no more than one page long, so make sure to leave out unnecessary minor details or flowery language. You can go into much greater detail with the rest of your business plan , which should be at least 30 pages long .

Some business owners find it better to write the executive summary last, which allows you to easily narrow down the best points to highlight and saves time on later revisions.

2. Business description

Your business description section is the place to talk about the details of your company and what it does best. Start off with a paragraph or two that provides details about:

• Your company’s purpose: Are you a commercial cleaning company or a residential cleaning business ?
• Your company history: Are you a startup ? If not, how long have you been in business? What experience do you bring to the table? 
• Your location: Where do you operate? What area do you serve? Do you have office space?
• Your team: How many employees do you have? How many people work in the front office? How many are on your janitorial team?
• Your objectives: What specific, measurable goals do you have? You can update your cleaning business plan over time, but choose 1–3 goals you’ll focus on for the next three years, such as “increasing net profits by 110% and reaching 75% growth within our first year .”

Target market

No cleaning business can be the perfect fit for everyone. Be specific about the clientele you want to serve, including your ideal client’s demographics and interests. Explain the problems they’re facing that may lead them to search for a cleaning company .

As an example, a house cleaning service may specifically target upper-middle-class families with children and busy work lives. They need a cleaning company so they can have more time to relax and be with their kids.

If you’re not sure what types of clients you want to focus on yet, do some research on other cleaning businesses in your area. Who are their typical clients? Are there any noticeable gaps you could fill? Are there less saturated parts of your local cleaning industry you could enter?

Value proposition

Your value proposition explains why you’re uniquely suited to serve your target market . You can use this part of your cleaning services business plan to highlight your greatest strengths—for example, if your team members are cleaning industry veterans or if you use particularly high-quality or eco-friendly products.

Cleaning services

It’s crucial for you to describe each type of cleaning service you offer. If you offer carpet cleaning , you may give some brief insight into what carpet materials you can clean and what carpet cleaning plans you offer. If you offer window cleaning services , specify whether you work with high-rises or only single-story buildings.

3. Market analysis

As the owner of a cleaning business , you need to keep an eye on trends in your industry and immediate market. The market analysis section of your cleaning services business plan shows your investors and partners both your knowledge and ability to succeed by answering questions like:

• What is the current state of the cleaning industry ? Is demand or spending projected to grow? Who is seeking services right now?
• Who are your competitors? Who are their potential customers ?
• What opportunities and challenges will you face entering the market?
• Despite the challenges, what gives you a competitive advantage? For example, you may be entering a saturated market, but you could still be the only office cleaning service in your area focused on serving small businesses .

Answer these questions as accurately as possible and back them up with thorough research and data. While you should always aim to put your cleaning business in a positive light to impress potential lenders, partners, and others, your business plan also serves as a guiding document for your company so it should be realistic. Your management team will benefit from understanding the actual challenges they’re facing and how you plan to overcome them.

4. Business strategy

Growth is essential for every company. In this portion of your cleaning services business plan , you’ll flesh out exactly the actions you’ll take to achieve that growth.

A great business strategy includes two components:

Pricing strategy

How you price your cleaning services can have a significant impact on your sales and your ability to reach your target audience. If you’re a new business , it can also affect your ability to attract new customers.

If you’re trying to attract money-conscious clients, it makes sense to offer coupons and deals on your services when you’re first launching your business. Coupons and deals can get their attention quickly, allowing you to make them loyal to your brand before you charge full price—which may still be at or below typical prices in your market. 

On the other hand, if you want to position yourself as a luxury cleaning business, your potential customers might not be seeking competitive pricing and be willing to pay more for higher-quality janitorial services .

Learn about nine pricing strategies you can implement in your business.

Sales and marketing strategy

The other essential component of your cleaning business strategy is your sales and marketing strategy , which explains how you intend to grow your cleaning company through driving business and making sales. This is where you can explain:

• How you’ll generate leads
• How you’ll engage those leads and drive them toward a purchase
• How you’ll keep engaging and retaining customers over time

This section should include all of the strategies you’ll use to promote and market your cleaning business (with details), such as running social media ads, claiming your Yelp Business Page , sending emails, or using traditional marketing like direct mail or print ads.

Most business plans will also include a sales forecast here that explains the results you expect to see based on your marketing efforts.

Learn how to reach new customers, cultivate customer loyalty, and elevate your brand with this guide on online marketing for small business .

Get a free Yelp Page

Promote your business to local customers.

5. Management summary

The management summary of your cleaning services business plan details how your company will operate on a day-to-day basis. A strong management summary will prove your team’s competence as a whole. Below are some subsections to consider including in this part of your plan.

Business structure

This section is relatively simple—just explain who owns your company and what business structure you have ( sole proprietorship , LLC, S corporation, etc.). If you have any other stakeholders, such as employees with equity in your business, make sure to provide this information too.

Management structure

The people behind the wheel of your business are the ones who shape its direction the most. That’s why your business plan should provide a brief biography of each member of your leadership team, as well as their relevant experience. Highlight all of their education and credentials, along with any relevant career accomplishments. For example, if you have 10 years of experience as the operations manager of a national cleaning company, highlight that.

Operations plan

Create a visual organizational chart for readers ( these free templates can help), so potential investors can easily see the hierarchy structure within your company. How do your cleaning technicians receive assignments? Do you have a customer service representative taking calls? Expand on how your cleaning service functions in individual departments and as a complete unit.

6. Financial plan

Writing a business plan doesn’t have to cost any money unless you hire a business consultant to write it for you, which usually costs at least $1,500. However, as you’re writing your plan, you do need to be aware of the costs of running your business.

Use this section to describe what expenses you’ll face as a business. Separate any startup costs (like LLC formation costs ) from ongoing operational costs (like rent, payroll, and cleaning equipment expenses) to present a clear picture of your potential.

It’s critical to be highly accurate with your financial figures in your cleaning services business plan. Overestimating expenses is better than underestimating them so that you or your team aren’t surprised by any additional expenses later on. Do your research on average prices and expenses or even chat with other cleaning business owners if you’re not sure.

Using your sales forecast as reference, present your expected financials for the next three to five years. What will your profit and loss statements, cash flow statements, and other financial documents look like? Use charts and graphs with specific numbers whenever possible. You may want to work with an accountant on this step, as they can advise on what’s realistic.

Put your cleaning services business plan into action

Once your cleaning services business plan is complete, it’s time to start putting it into action. After launching your business, enact your business strategies. Your business plan should provide guidance for at least the next three years, though it’s perfectly normal to need to make adjustments to your objectives and strategies at any time. Get more tips on how to market your cleaning business to take your cleaning services to the next level.

The information above is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice and may not be suitable for your circumstances. Unless stated otherwise, references to third-party links, services, or products do not constitute endorsement by Yelp.

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Here is a free business plan sample for a cleaning company.

Are you considering launching a cleaning company but feel overwhelmed by the planning process? Look no further.

In the content that follows, we will present you with a comprehensive business plan template tailored for a cleaning service.

As an aspiring entrepreneur, you should be aware that a meticulously developed business plan is crucial for laying the foundation of a prosperous venture. It serves as a roadmap, outlining your vision, objectives, and the strategies you will employ to achieve them.

To expedite the creation of an effective business plan, you are invited to utilize our cleaning company business plan template. Additionally, our team of professionals is available to review and refine your plan at no cost.

How to draft a great business plan for your cleaning company?

A good business plan for a cleaning company must be tailored to the unique aspects of the cleaning industry.

To start, it's important to provide a comprehensive overview of the cleaning market. This should include current statistics and also pinpoint emerging trends within the industry, similar to what we've outlined in our cleaning company business plan template .

Your business plan should clearly articulate your vision, define your target market (such as residential homeowners, commercial businesses, or specialized cleaning services), and establish your company's unique selling proposition (eco-friendly products, 24/7 services, specialized cleaning techniques, etc.).

Market analysis is a critical component. This section should delve into the competitive landscape, market demands, and customer expectations within your service area.

For a cleaning company, it's vital to detail the services you intend to offer. Describe your range of services - standard cleaning, deep cleaning, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and any additional services - and explain how they cater to the needs of your target customers.

The operational plan is key. It should outline the logistics of your service delivery, including the location of your headquarters, the transportation and equipment needed, the procurement of cleaning supplies, and the hiring and training of staff.

Emphasizing the quality of your cleaning methods, the reliability of your staff, and adherence to health and safety regulations is also important.

Then, discuss your marketing and sales strategies. How do you plan to attract new clients and maintain a loyal customer base? Consider advertising tactics, customer service policies, and upselling additional services.

Incorporating digital marketing efforts, such as a professional website and active social media engagement, is increasingly important for reaching potential clients.

The financial section is crucial. It should cover the initial investment, projected revenue, ongoing expenses, and the point at which the business will become profitable.

In the cleaning industry, managing labor costs and supply expenses is essential, so a thorough understanding of your financials is necessary. For assistance, refer to our financial forecast for a cleaning company .

Compared to other business plans, a cleaning company's plan must focus on workforce management, customer satisfaction metrics, and the scalability of services.

A well-crafted business plan will not only help you clarify your operational and growth strategies but also attract investors or secure loans.

Lenders and investors are looking for comprehensive market research, realistic financial projections, and a solid plan for day-to-day operations.

By presenting a detailed and substantiated business plan, you showcase your professionalism and dedication to the success of your cleaning company.

To achieve these goals while saving time, you can fill out our cleaning company business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a cleaning company

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a cleaning company .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The cleaning industry is a robust and essential sector with significant growth potential.

Recent estimates value the global cleaning services market at over 300 billion dollars, with expectations for continued expansion due to the rising demand for residential and commercial cleaning services.

In the United States alone, there are over 1 million cleaning services companies, contributing to an annual revenue of approximately 60 billion dollars for the industry.

These statistics underscore the critical role cleaning services play in maintaining public health standards and supporting the functionality of businesses and homes.

The cleaning industry is witnessing several key trends that are shaping its future.

Eco-friendly and sustainable cleaning products are becoming increasingly popular as consumers and businesses alike seek to reduce their environmental footprint.

Technological advancements, such as automated cleaning robots and smart home integration, are streamlining cleaning processes and enhancing efficiency.

There is also a growing emphasis on specialized cleaning services, including those targeting allergen reduction, which cater to health-conscious individuals.

Moreover, the rise of on-demand and subscription-based cleaning services reflects the modern consumer's preference for convenience and flexibility.

Transparency in service offerings and pricing, as well as the use of non-toxic and hypoallergenic products, are becoming important factors for customers when choosing a cleaning service provider.

These trends indicate a shift towards more sustainable, technologically integrated, and customer-centric cleaning services.

Success Factors

Several factors contribute to the success of a cleaning company.

Quality of service is paramount; a company that consistently delivers thorough and reliable cleaning will build a strong reputation.

Innovation in service delivery, such as incorporating new cleaning technologies or offering customizable cleaning plans, can set a company apart in a crowded market.

Strategic location and efficient logistics are important for serving customers promptly and expanding the customer base.

Exceptional customer service, including responsive communication and attention to client feedback, is essential for customer satisfaction and retention.

Lastly, effective cost management and the ability to adapt to industry trends, such as green cleaning practices, are crucial for the long-term viability and growth of a cleaning company.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our cleaning company project is designed to address the essential need for cleanliness and hygiene in both residential and commercial spaces. Strategically located to serve urban areas with high demand for cleaning services, our company will offer a comprehensive range of services, including regular housekeeping, deep cleaning, office cleaning, and specialized sanitation services. We will use eco-friendly cleaning products and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure a spotless and healthy environment for our clients.

We will emphasize reliability, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction to stand out in the cleaning industry.

Our cleaning company is poised to set a new standard for cleanliness and customer care, aiming to be the go-to solution for clients who value a pristine living and working environment.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our cleaning company is centered on delivering a spotless, hygienic, and welcoming environment for homeowners and businesses alike. We understand the importance of a clean space for health, comfort, and productivity.

Our commitment to using eco-friendly cleaning products and methods not only ensures a thorough clean but also protects the well-being of our clients and the planet. We offer flexible scheduling and customized cleaning plans to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring their utmost satisfaction.

We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients by providing consistent, high-quality cleaning services and contributing to the overall quality of life in the communities we serve.

Project Owner

The project owner is an entrepreneur with a strong background in business management and a passion for service excellence in the cleaning industry.

With years of experience in customer service and operations, the owner is dedicated to establishing a cleaning company that stands out for its commitment to eco-friendly practices, customer satisfaction, and a well-trained, trustworthy staff.

Driven by a vision to revolutionize the cleaning service market, the owner is committed to providing top-notch cleaning solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern clients, while also prioritizing the health of the environment and the community.

With a hands-on approach and a dedication to excellence, the project owner is the driving force behind the company, aiming to create a cleaner, healthier, and happier society through professional cleaning services.

The Market Study

Market segments.

The market segments for this cleaning company are diverse and cater to a wide range of clients.

Firstly, there are residential homeowners who require regular or one-time cleaning services to maintain a clean and healthy living environment.

Secondly, commercial clients such as offices, retail stores, and restaurants seek professional cleaning services to ensure their premises meet health and safety standards and present a clean image to customers.

Additionally, the market includes real estate agents and property managers who need move-in/move-out cleaning services to prepare properties for new tenants.

Lastly, specialized segments such as medical facilities or industrial sites may require cleaning services that adhere to strict hygiene and sanitation protocols.

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis of this cleaning company project highlights several key factors.

Strengths include a well-trained cleaning staff, use of eco-friendly and high-quality cleaning products, and a strong reputation for reliability and thoroughness.

Weaknesses might encompass the challenges of scaling the workforce during peak demand and managing the logistics of a mobile workforce.

Opportunities can be found in the growing awareness of the importance of cleanliness and hygiene, particularly in the post-pandemic era, as well as the potential to offer additional services such as deep cleaning, disinfection, and specialized cleaning.

Threats could involve the competitive nature of the cleaning industry, price undercutting by competitors, and the potential for economic downturns to reduce the frequency of cleaning services hired by clients.

Competitor Analysis

Competitor analysis in the cleaning industry indicates a highly competitive landscape.

Direct competitors include other local cleaning services, franchise operations, and independent contractors.

These competitors vie for market share by offering various services, pricing models, and customer service experiences.

Potential competitive advantages for our company include superior customer service, a strong online presence, and the use of environmentally friendly cleaning solutions.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of competitors is crucial for carving out a niche in the market and for customer acquisition and retention.

Competitive Advantages

Our cleaning company's dedication to customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility sets us apart from the competition.

We provide a comprehensive range of services, from standard residential cleaning to specialized commercial and industrial cleaning, all performed with attention to detail and efficiency.

Our commitment to using eco-friendly cleaning products not only appeals to environmentally conscious clients but also ensures a safer environment for our staff and clients.

Moreover, our investment in employee training and retention strategies results in a trustworthy and consistent cleaning team that our clients can rely on.

You can also read our articles about: - the customer segments of a cleaning company - the competition study for a cleaning company

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the eco-friendly cleaning company is designed to be progressive and responsive to market needs.

In the first year, our goal is to establish a strong local presence, focusing on building a reputation for reliability and exceptional service quality.

The second year will be geared towards expanding our services to neighboring regions and investing in eco-friendly cleaning technologies.

By the third year, we aim to diversify our service offerings to include specialized cleaning solutions and to form strategic partnerships with property management companies.

We will consistently prioritize sustainability, customer satisfaction, and innovative cleaning practices to adapt to the evolving demands of the market and solidify our industry standing.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our cleaning company targets both residential and commercial clients who value eco-friendly and health-conscious cleaning services.

Our value proposition is centered on providing environmentally safe cleaning practices, exceptional service, and flexible scheduling to accommodate our clients' needs.

We offer our services through direct engagement via our website, phone, and in-person consultations, utilizing our skilled workforce and green cleaning products as our key resources.

Key activities include delivering thorough cleaning services, customer relationship management, and promoting green initiatives within the community.

Our revenue streams are generated from regular cleaning contracts and one-time deep cleaning services, while our costs are mainly associated with labor, supplies, and marketing efforts.

Access a detailed and customizable Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is centered on highlighting the health and environmental benefits of our eco-friendly cleaning services.

We aim to educate our target market on the importance of green cleaning and build trust in our brand through transparent practices and customer testimonials.

Our approach includes targeted online advertising, community engagement events, and partnerships with eco-conscious organizations.

We will leverage social media platforms and influencer partnerships to amplify our message and reach a wider audience, while consistently delivering high-quality services to encourage word-of-mouth referrals.

Risk Policy

The risk policy for our cleaning company is designed to mitigate risks associated with service delivery, employee safety, and customer satisfaction.

We adhere to strict safety protocols and use only certified eco-friendly cleaning products to ensure the well-being of our clients and staff.

Regular training and audits are conducted to maintain high service standards. We also implement a prudent financial management strategy to safeguard against economic fluctuations.

Additionally, we maintain comprehensive liability insurance to protect against any potential service-related issues. Our commitment is to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable cleaning services while ensuring the complete satisfaction of our clients.

Why Our Project is Viable

We are committed to establishing an eco-friendly cleaning company that meets the growing demand for sustainable living and working environments.

With our dedication to environmental stewardship, customer-centric service, and industry innovation, we are poised for success in a market that increasingly values health and sustainability.

We are enthusiastic about making a positive impact on the environment and the daily lives of our customers while building a profitable and responsible business.

We remain adaptable to market trends and customer feedback, and we are optimistic about the future prospects of our eco-friendly cleaning company.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a cleaning company - the marketing strategy for a cleaning company

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a cleaning company and our financial plan for a cleaning company .

Initial expenses for our cleaning company include purchasing professional cleaning equipment, securing a fleet of vehicles for transportation, obtaining insurance and business licenses, training staff in the latest cleaning techniques and safety protocols, as well as costs related to brand creation and launching targeted marketing campaigns to establish our presence in the local market.

Our revenue assumptions are based on a thorough analysis of the local demand for cleaning services, taking into account the increasing need for residential and commercial cleaning solutions.

We anticipate a steady growth in clientele, starting with a conservative number of contracts and expanding as our reputation for reliability and excellence in cleaning services strengthens.

The projected income statement indicates expected revenues from our cleaning services, direct costs (cleaning supplies, labor, vehicle maintenance), and operating expenses (office rent, marketing, salaries, etc.).

This results in a forecasted net profit that is essential for assessing the long-term viability of our cleaning company.

The projected balance sheet reflects assets specific to our business, such as cleaning equipment, vehicles, and supply inventories, and liabilities including loans and anticipated operational expenses.

It provides a snapshot of the financial standing of our cleaning company at the end of each fiscal period.

Our projected cash flow budget details the inflows and outflows of cash, enabling us to predict our financial needs at any given time. This will assist us in maintaining a healthy cash balance and preventing liquidity issues.

The projected financing plan outlines the various sources of funding we intend to utilize to cover our initial costs and support growth.

The working capital requirement for our cleaning company will be diligently managed to ensure we have sufficient funds to cover day-to-day operations, including purchasing supplies, managing inventory, and processing payroll.

The break-even point for our venture is the level of service contracts needed to cover all our costs, including startup expenses, and to begin generating profits.

It will signal the point at which our business becomes financially sustainable.

Performance indicators we will monitor include the profit margin on our cleaning services, the current ratio to evaluate our ability to meet short-term liabilities, and the return on investment to gauge the efficiency of the capital we have invested in the business.

These metrics will aid us in measuring the financial health and overall success of our cleaning company.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a cleaning company .

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20+ SAMPLE Cleaning Service Business Plan in PDF | MS Word

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Cleaning Service Business Plan

There are a lot of reasons why you need a solid business plan for your cleaning service business . One of the most important reasons is that it acts as an official document which helps you with framing your objectives, goals and the ways to achieve them. Preparing a business plan may require little upfront investment and research from your side. However, if you are not getting enough time to reap a quality plan, you can try downloading free business plan documents and modify it according to your business requirements .

Check the below 10+ cleaning services business plan examples and choose the one that fits your business goals .

12+ Best Cleaning Service Business Plan Examples

Cleaning service business plan template.

• Google Docs

Size: US, A4

Cleaning or Janitorial Marketing Plan Template

Commercial Cleaning Service Business Plan Template

• Apple Pages

Size: 38 KB

Simple Cleaning Services Business Plan

Size: 714KB

Every business plan must be simple and easy to interpret the ideas while implementing it. Similarly, while creating a cleaning service business plan, there must be concise information about the management of your business, the mission statement for your company, location where you are going to offer your services, start-up cost, foreseen profits and losses, local competition, pricing and a lot more. So while creating a business plan make sure you have added all basic information which makes the plan simple yet effective. Check out the sample that highlights five elements essential to winning the competitors.

Sample Cleaning Business Plan

Size: 570KB

There are many parts you need to keep your eyes on while creating a business plan for cleaning business , budget is one of them. It will take you to the edge of the needle if you overspend your budget. If you are not taking the budget part very seriously while creating a business plan , you may end up with troubles smudging you. You can use the existed equipment for cleaning services instead of buying a new one. Having said that, you need to set the budgetary review on a monthly basis, so that you can review the ins and outs and modify the plan according to it. You can also consult with any cleaning business owner who has been in the field for more than years to learn the ideologies they followed in their journey.

Cleaning Operational Plan

Size: 120KB

Well, everyone can start a cleaning business, but not everyone can turn it into a thriving business. It needs a perfect plan to find a road map to success. A perfect cleaning business plan needs market research and business idea validation in order to differentiate your service offerings. A well-researched business plan asks you research on the present market standards. Once you are done with researching you will know certain strategies to break the ways of competitors to overcome your future plans.

Start-Up Cleaning Service Business Plan

A start-up agency must compose a perfect cleaning business plan in order to succeed in the race. It is very important to prepare a well-researched business plan to avoid pitfalls that may happen in future. One of the important things to be aware of is pricing. As a start-up, it is important to identify the ideal target audience before finalizing the charges. Pricing depends on various factors like the size of your house, how often and when you clean and equipment you use to clean the area. Depending on the above-mentioned things, a cleaner can charge the client, however as a newbie in this business you should not overprice for your services. This must be included in the pricing part of the business plan .

‘How to Start’ Cleaning Business Plan

If it is a start-up company you need to start with finding answers for why you need a business plan for your service. Even though your target is to boost your audience, you need to make sure you earn potential clients. Audience in common may not be a potential client for your service.

Commercial Cleaning Services Plan

Size: 140KB

The term itself denotes that the commercial cleaning company must earn good response over its commercial aspect. For this, having a perfect business plan is mandatory. Among various business tools for promoting your service and boosting your audience, you need to find the ideal one for you. You can start googling for business plan making software so that you find many ready-made templates available in the market.

Commercial and Residential Cleaning Business Plan

It is always essential to have thorough research on the present market status before creating a market plan . You need to analyse over the existing competitors, demographics and size of the market as an initial point. However, the information will not be concise to remember by heart, but you will certainly get an idea of how your business plan should be.

Maid-to-Clean Business Plan Example

Size: 119KB

If it is a cleaning company, the business owner will have to employ four to five maids to offer their services, but as an individual maid, it is out of the pattern. If it is maid to create cleaning business plan for their limited services, then it will be of comprising content includes objective, market analysis, company description and the services they provide. Check out the sample maid-to-clean business plan attached here.

Janitorial Business Plan Sample

Size: 196KB

janitorial business includes almost all kind of cleaning services such as housekeeping, building maintenance, commercial cleaning services, etc. So while preparing a business plan for janitorial services you need to be keen on including all the relevant services. A perfect cleaning service business plan must be ended up with proper validating of your idea and the facts. In this, you need to make sure all the information is true to the present market standards in order to avoid future hassles.

Standard Residential Cleaning Service

A successful business plan includes sections like an executive summary, a company description, extensive market analysis , business operations , financial projections and a lot more. This sample residential cleaning business plan comes in a way smarter than contemporary plans. This sample document contains details like vision, mission, management of the company, manpower solutions with overall services they provide. Check out the sample now.

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Cleaning Service Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Home Improvement » Cleaning Service

Are you about starting a cleaning business ? If YES, here is a complete sample cleaning service business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a cleaning business. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample cleaning service marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for cleaning businesses.

So let’s proceed to the business planning section. As the business owner of a new cleaning business, you must spend your valuable time and resources in creating a business plan that will give you a head start in the industry and put you ahead of the competition curve from the onset.

A Sample Cleaning Service Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The cleaning industry is almost always moving up the ramp of growth. The expansion of the industry has been specifically rapid in the past several years and experts believe that this exponential increase in the growth is not likely to be stunted anytime soon, at least not in the near future.

As a result, now is a better time than ever for start-up cleaning companies to embark on a journey towards reaching the lands of success in the cleaning industry.

In other words, it is an opportune time for entrepreneurs to start thinking about how they can initiate a highly profitable and successful start-up cleaning company that will cater to the demands of hundreds and thousands of customers in the city and the country.

Our goal is to address the needs of the customers who are looking for top notch cleaning services at reasonable prices for their homes or their workplaces. This need of the customers will be addressed by providing them with the very best cleaning services that will be conducted by highly skilled cleaning professionals working in the united states of America in the state of Illinois.

The characteristics that will set our business apart from the rest will be the top quality of our services, the efficiency of our workers and the first class hospitality treatment that our clients can expect from our professionals every single time.

2. Executive Summary

• Current Situation

We are a start-up cleaning company that was established in the year 2011 in the state of Illinois. The principal owner of our company is Stephanie Ryder who currently serves as the President of the Executive Committee of our company.

Mrs. Ryder has brought several years of experience in the cleaning service industry into our cleaning company, and it is this experience of hers that has helped the company overcome odds during the initial stages of its operations. The key figure in our company who must be mentioned in the same breath as Mrs Ryder is her sister, Clementine Orton.

She contributes greatly to our customer service department, the bookkeeping sector as well as other areas of our business that requires the expertise and experience of someone as knowledgeable, proactive and dynamic as Ms. Orton.

At this current period of our time, the company is looking for some much needed additional equity capital that will be a perfect addition to our own equity investment. Therefore the company is now looking to sign a deal with a bank for funding our inventory and our receivables.

We have assured several clients, both corporate and residential clients, in cities across the state of Illinois, especially in the city of Chicago, to provide a host of different cleaning services in their commercial complexes and residential buildings so that they can live in a clean, safe and secure environment without the fear of having their homes and offices turned into a dirty and inhabitable environment.

Once the financial arrangements for our inventory and receivables funding are finalized by the bank, we hope to resume our cleaning services and expand our services to cities across the state where we are yet to explore and leave a mark on.

• Key Success Factors

When talking about the key success factors, it all comes down to the vision and the goals of our principal owner Stephanie Ryder. It is her energy, exuberance and efficacy to take a start-up company from the realms of oblivion to the echelons of the cleaning service industry that we count on most as the key success factor of our company.

In addition to that, we believe that we have an impressive social network that will allow the business to smoothly float from one client to the other without having redundant periods of unemployment between contracts.

Since the cleaning business is based heavily on service, our priority is to hire the best cleaning staff members available around the country, and therefore our recruitment managers have been well equipped to select the crème of the crop when it comes to assembling a team of money making staff.

We refuse to provide cleaning services that are incomplete and those that fail to meet the expectations of our endeared clients.

This will allow us to give the very best service and cleaning product selection to various clients across the state without being distracted by the very different product and service demands of general market outlets in the cleaning industry. All of this and more will allow your business to draw success towards itself and compete with the very best in the industry for bragging rights and dominant market positions.

• Financial Situation/Needs

A total sum of $300,000 is the minimum that we require to effectively initiate our business and open our doors to our valued clients that who are waiting to subscribe to our top notch services.

The majority portions of the funds we receive will be used to finance and streamline the business operations until we start generating sufficient amounts of revenue and making enough profit to finance our own operations and expand these operations beyond our expectations.

Till then, we must be reliant on external finances whether it be in the form of the funds that we received from the bank or the funds that have been granted to us by the principal owner Stephanie Ryder, the immediate members of the family, her relative, friends, co-workers and previous employers and business partners.

According to our estimations, within the next 2 years (give or take 3 months) the company will have enough clients and will be carrying out the required number of deals to generate healthy revenue and become profitable. Our calculations and research work also tells us that within 4 years of breaking even, the investors in our business will be able to retrieve the entirety of their funds and will be able to cash out with ease.

The founding partners of our company will have the option of purchasing the investment stake or substituting the replacement stake with extra bank funding after the completion of the first 4 years of full-fledged operations provided that the company breaks even and earns considerable profit.

3. Our Mission and Vision Statement

The vision of our company is rather quite simple. We hope to become the first name in the shopping list of homes and offices when they are looking for cleaning services that can lend them a helping hand in creating a beautiful living or working environment.

We will reward our clients for making us their first choice by providing them with cleaning services that are equal, if not better, than the best cleaning service available to them, and one that is certainly most affordable if the client decides to sign a long term contract with us. We do not want to simply become a provider of cleaning services or a supplier of cleaning products.

Rather, we want to be known as a team of cleaning experts who the entire state can rely on to keep their homes and offices sparkling clean and refreshed.

We want to help build a state where people no longer have to compromise with their living and working conditions courtesy of our cleaning services. A cleaner and greener world is certainly our primary objective for starting this start-up business.

• Securing verbal commitments from our first batch of commercial clients who are willing to sign a 6 months contract is complete.
• Securing verbal commitments from the batch of commercial clients who are interested to subscribe to our services for a trial period of 1 month is complete.
• Securing verbal commitments from the first batch of commercial clients who are willing to sign up for our services for a shortened term of 3 months is currently underway.
• A warehouse lease for 6 months has been signed.
• First written orders from suppliers for the next 6 months have been received.
• Purchase of vehicles necessary to transport cleaning products and equipments is currently underway.
• Full catalogue of services and products (used for conducting services) has been completed and revised.
• Presentation to potential investors who are looking to add their money in the investment pool is currently underway.
• Presentation to banks who will be interested to finance our operations and inventory is currently underway.
• Employee recruitment for 3 different cleaning teams is now complete.
• Employee training for 3 different cleaning teams is currently underway under the supervision of professional mentors and experts hired temporarily.
• Securing the insurance for the entire cleaning business is now complete.
• Devising the employee policy is currently underway and is being conducted by Stephanie Ryder and Clementine Orton.

4. SWOT Analysis

• Opportunities in the Cleaning Industry

The room for success in the cleaning industry is quite vast. As the number of commercial buildings and residential homes increase, the demand for cleaning services is likely to enhance along with it.

Furthermore, the healthcare industry and organizations in charge of advocating eco-friendly business practices makes it quite a necessity for businesses around the country to improve sanitation and hygiene standards in their workplaces which compels them to seek the services of cleaning companies.

Therefore, this market offers us terrific growth potential, which we are planning to capitalize on with all our expertise and ambition.

This market may not be the largest in the country, but it is certainly one where a newcomer like us will receive abundant opportunities to register progress in leaps and bounds as long as we have the correct business philosophy and are implementing the right business strategies.

• Threats and Risks

As a small cleaning firm that will be taking baby steps towards growth and development for at least the foreseeable future; we do not anticipate any major reactions from our future competitors upon the entry of our business in the industry.

We are expecting that our introduction into the industry will remain a low profile one and is likely to go unnoticed by some of the more major corporations which rule the cleaning service industry. We also do not think that some of the lesser known cleaning service companies that have been in the industry far longer than us will be have any distinct reactions to the initiation of our business.

However, in the case that they formulate plans to drive us further away from competition, we have come up with contingency plans of our own that will help us survive the threat of expulsion from the industry and assist us to overcome the risks that are associated with engaging in fierce competition with the experienced business owners of established commercial sector cleaning companies.

Competitive Strategies

• Key Competitive Capabilities

Most of the start-up cleaning companies have their sights set on the residential sector, mainly because of their lack of confidence and belief to compete with the major players in the commercial sector. This will not be the case with our company.

We will become one of the very few start-up companies in the state of Illinois which will focus all of its finances, resources and marketing strategies in climbing up the ladder in the cleaning industry and rapidly acquiring larger portions of the market share.

We will not have to compete with a big number of start-ups in the commercial sector, therefore our progress or advancement into the big leagues of the industry will not be hindered by too many competitive obstacles or hurdles in the way.

Our major advantage however lies in the incredible amount of expertise and experience that our principal owner Stephanie Ryder will be bringing into the equation.

As an entrepreneur who has had her fair share of successes and failures in the last decade, Stephanie will have a clear understand of the strategies and tactics that are required to get us across the finishing line ahead of others and avoid major disasters that our competitors may push us into.

The fact that we will be assembling a cleaning team of experienced professionals blended enthusiastic and energetic college students will allow us to achieve a working dynamic that will push our efficiency higher than that of other companies.

Basically, our company will form a cleaning staff that will strive to outwork and outsmart employees of other cleaning companies.

In an industry which is heavily reliant on service, the key is to employ workers who are willing to put in the best performance within the shortest period of time available. Our extensive and rigorous training programs will allow our workers to develop themselves, sharpen their skills at all times and stay updated with the latest developments in the world of cleaning products and equipment.

Our training facility for the workers will turn out to be a game changer and a breeding ground for the best workers in the cleaning industry in the country.

• Key Competitive Weakness

Our key competitive weaknesses stem from our lack of experience being a start-up company. We may have the best cleaning staff in the country assembled, but that will not allow us to strike deals with numerous clients at the same time.

Therefore, our availability is something that may compromise our revenue and income generation. We have a limited number of workers who will not be overworked severely according to the company policy.

Therefore, it will not be possible for us to bring in a massive number of clients every month. We hope to tackle this problem by finding ways to maximize our income and profit generation. That will allow us to employee more workers, even individual contractors with a part time schedule, and we can plan on increasing our portfolio of monthly or annual clients.

Since our current business plan ( which is based on the current financing and funding that is available to us ) only allows us to operate within the boundaries of the state of Illinois, our company will have limited reach unlike the other major corporations in the industry which are willing to provide their services all across the country.

Therefore, we will be missing out on a major chunk of the industry market which is outside the state of Illinois and that will result in a series of missed opportunities that could quite possibly hurt our finances considerably in the long run.

If we are to compete with the major names in the industry, we must generate enough income to expand our business beyond the borders of Illinois and give clients around the country an opportunity to be impressed by our top notch services.

5. MARKET ANALYSIS

• The Overall Market

Before you proceed, it is important to note that this is just an extract of our in-depth marketing plan. Here is the full sample cleaning business marketing plan template.

The overall size of the cleaning industry according to most estimates is somewhere around $750 million in the United States of America.

The state of Illinois is a major location in the industry mainly because of the highly industrialized and commercialized city of Chicago where cleaning services have become a necessity in nearly every neighbourhood that is flocked with commercial complexes and residential buildings.

The analysis of the cleaning industry be easily divided into two categories due to the distinct nature of the two kinds of services that cleaning companies in this industry concentrate on. The first is the commercial cleaning service and the second is the residential cleaning service.

The market analysis for both of them must be done separately because the nature and intensity of the demand in both of them are highly different.

Commercial clients usually demands cleaning companies that can provide them with state of the art janitorial services and garbage removal and disposal services. Residential clients on the other hand look for cleaning companies that can provide comparatively less heavy duty services such as carpet cleaning, upholstery, 6 hour maid services, vacuuming etc.

Changes in the Cleaning Industry Marketplace

During the time of the depression, the office rent rates went up and that comprised the ability of several corporations and large businesses to afford cleaning services. Since the depression faded way into oblivion, the office rent rates have somewhat become flatter and companies and corporations have regained the need and ability to subscribe to cleaning services.

With that being said, certain cities in the state of Illinois are experiencing a rise in rent of residential spaces. If the rates continue to rise in a similar fashion, then cleaning companies who cater to residential clients will be forced to make their prices more competitive and increase the efficiency of their projects.

This may sound like an intimidating scenario for most start-up cleaning businesses, but our company sees this as an opportunity to adapt, evolve and let the market changes mould our path to success.

One of the major changes that led to a boom in the cleaning industry in the recent years is the development and increased authority of the healthcare industry. Residing and working in unclean and filthy places posed several health hazards to residents and workers around the country.

This forces the home owners and corporate heads to resort to cleaning services, since their personal cleaning professionals unable to meet the standards that were set by the esteemed organizations in the healthcare industry.

As a result, cleaning companies were suddenly exposed to far more contracts than before, and most of the clients preferred to have long term arrangements with the cleaning companies instead of having a one off affair with the cleaning services.

One lesser known factor that influenced the growth of the cleaning industry is the ever increasing demand for aestheticism and visual appeal in homes and offices around the United States of America. People want their homes and offices to look good from both the inside and the outside. As a result, they cannot afford to have dirt and filth lying around in their office or residential space.

This prompted them to seek the professional help of cleaning services. Cleaning companies around the company are making sure that homes and offices retain and maintain the visual appeal with which they were built so that they do not become labelled outdated or unsuitable for future tenants.

Market Segments in the Cleaning Industry

Most cleaning companies do not provide an all encompassing service. The cleaning service itself can be divided into various segments, and the demand for these segmented services in the commercial or residential market is quite different from one another.

Some of the most common segmented services include janitorial services, maid services, window cleaning services, carpet cleaning services, dry cleaning, vacuuming, furniture polishing, washroom cleaning, waste removal and disposal etc.

We understand the diversity in the demand for these services across various platforms. For example, it would be erroneous for us to assume that the market demand for window cleaning in commercial complexes is the same as the market demand for window cleaning in residential homes in the suburbs of Illinois.

6. Our Target Market

One of the more impressive aspects of the cleaning industry is the endless possibilities it provides when it comes to the target market and customers.

Sure, each cleaning company that establishes itself in the cleaning industry has its own niche and therefore its own target market and clients. However, for a start-up company like ours, we had the luxury of choosing from a wide selection of target customers.

In the commercial sector, businesses ranging from small companies to large corporations are all in need of cleaning services of one kind or the other. Schools, colleges, libraries and other variants of educational institutions too require the assistance of cleaning companies to provide a cleaner, safer and health hazard free studying environment for the bright minds of tomorrow.

In the residential sector, there are those living modern day busy urban lives who hardly have time to make their bed and keep their shoes aligned. For them, maid services are perfect to restore some order in their homes and their lives. Then again, there are clients within the residential sector who are looking to provide their newborn children with a cleaner and safer abode.

This is when they call upon the cleaning service companies to help make their homes a better place for their children to live in. As far as our operations are concerned, we are looking to cater to the commercial clients simply because we believe that the post depression era in the United States will turn these clients into profitable prospects and accounts for us.

Since we are equipped with the right size of cleaning staff and the appropriate cleaning equipments, we believe that we can cover massive office spaces as long as the clients appoint us a reasonable deadline. Window cleaning services, janitorial services and waste removal services in collaboration with the city authorities will be the major concentration areas of our business going forward.

With that being said, we will be keeping a watchful eye on the residential sector and always be open to the idea of expanding our business if lucrative opportunities present themselves.

• Customer Buying Decisions

Whether or not a client will express their interest to subscribe to a cleaning service company will depend on two things. The first is the expertise and experience of the cleaning service company which is known to people in the neighbourhood, city or the state.

Secondly, the effectiveness and the efficacy of the marketing and advertising strategies that are created by the cleaning company. There can also be a third factor in the mix, and that is the company’s ability to impress their clients during trial periods of service, if there are any on offer.

Our company, being a start-up cleaning business, will lack the experience and renown that is required to draw in new clients.

However, what we lack in experience, we will make up with the high quality of services during the trial cleaning sessions that we will offer to our clients and also through the dynamism and strong appeal of our outbound and inbound marketing campaigns. We hope to build a brand that can consistently influence the buying decision of the customers in the industry.

7. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Marketing Strategy

Socialization will be at the centre of our marketing strategy. We believe that in order for our business to thrive, we must reach out to people and give them genuine reasons to subscribe to our services. Our brand of marketing will be an aggressive and effervescent one, where we will strive to convert every potential prospect into a client within a period of 30 days.

This is the reason why we will be channelling our resources towards inbound marketing, as it allows us to connect with potential clientele and stay in touch with them at all times.

Not only will be having our own website, blog and newsletter programs, but we will also be taking our business to the social media platform, where the goal would be to change people’s general perception towards cleaning service businesses and keep them informed about the advantages and benefits of hiring a cleaning service company, using both a direct and indirect (more subtle) approach.

Advertising Strategy

Our advertising strategy will be no less exuberant than our marketing strategy. We believe that it is all about forming a brand and enticing people to associate themselves with the brand in ways that appeal to them the most. Unlike other cleaning companies, we do not simply want to sell services that people can make use of. Instead, our goal is to sell experiences that people can thoroughly enjoy.

For example, our janitorial service advertisements will be specifically addressing the needs of those business owners who want to provide a wonderful working environment for their employees and thus curb down the number of complaints about their company’s working conditions.

• Sales Tactics

Once a client shows interest in our cleaning service, our sales team will be implementing a number of different tactics to retain the interest of the client and make sure that a contractual agreement is reached.

In order to do this, we will be offering our first time customers with various unknown complimentary services and discounts that will turn out to be a surprise package for them and will thus intensify their desire to contractually obligate us to clean their offices. The idea is to make the clients feel that they are getting more than what they are paying for.

Our approach to generating publicity for our business will be divided into three steps. The first step is to convince trade magazine to publish a feature on our start-up company and the potential of our services to change offices across the neighbourhood.

The second step is to send our representatives to the local radio stations to promote our business and educate listeners on what we have in store for them. The third and final step is to partner up with manufacturers of cleaning products and provide discounts on our services to people who purchase their cleaning products.

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How to Start a Cleaning Business in 2024 (10 Simple Steps)

• Last Updated: May 13, 2024

• Consistency is key – have a regular cleaning schedule for your clientele.
• Employ top-notch cleaning products to get optimal results.
• To deliver outstanding customer service, properly train your personnel.
• Use technology to boost productivity and optimize your business processes.

The cleaning business is hotter than ever, fueled by a collective desire for sparkling sanitization. Thanks to COVID, hygiene is no longer a suggestion; it’s a battle cry. And that translates to serious opportunity – the global cleaning market is projected to be a powerhouse by 2030, growing by a whopping 6.5%!

The cleaning business is your gateway to entrepreneurship without breaking the bank. Startup costs are manageable, and you get to call the shots on your schedule. Every grime-fighting victory, every dust bunny banished, becomes a stepping stone to your business empire.

So, if your vision involves transforming grimy office spaces into productivity paradises, this guide is your roadmap to cleaning business mastery. We’ll cover everything from wielding your first weapon of mass disinfection (the trusty mop) to polishing your brand until it shines brighter than a freshly squeezed window. Let’s get this germ-busting business off the ground!

Table of Content

10 Essential Steps to Start a Cleaning Business

Pros and cons of starting a cleaning business.

• Frequently Asked Questions

Here are 10 important steps to kickstart your cleaning business journey. Make sure you follow each of them for desired results and projected revenue:

1. Know your competitors

Before you start a cleaning business, it is crucial to understand the cleaning industry’s landscape in your area. You must learn about the industry leaders and study their services and business models. It is also important to find out your target market’s problems and recognize their expectations from a professional cleaning service business. This will help you identify your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. 

Detailed competitive research will help you position your services more effectively, pinpoint your niche, and deliver the best to your potential customers.

2. Decide what cleaning services to offer

Once you study your competitors and recognize the needs of your customers, it will now be easy for you to decide what cleaning services you are going to offer. 

Aligning what your competitors are lacking with what your targeted customers still want can set you apart from others. 

Clearly define what types of cleaning services you will offer. Decide whether you’ll specialize in certain areas, like green cleaning or deep cleaning, or provide a broad range of services.

3. Choose your business structure

Once you decide what services you will offer, you should choose a business structure that best suits your needs, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC. Each has different implications for liability, taxes, and ongoing compliance requirements.

A. Sole Proprietorship: 

Among all the business structures, sole proprietorship is ideal for those who plan to work independently. It allows for direct control over all decisions but does not provide a legal separation between personal and business liabilities. This directly means your assets could be at risk if your business incurs debt or legal issues.

B. Partnership: 

When one or more individuals are likely to operate together, the partnership can be ideal for you. This structure allows you to share responsibility and resources. Partnerships require agreements on the distribution of profits, shared liability, and the roles of each partner. This is done to avoid future disputes between individuals.

C. Limited Liability Company (LLC): 

An LLC combines the benefits of a corporation and a partnership. It protects against personal liability, similar to a corporation while offering the operational flexibility and tax advantages of a partnership. This structure is beneficial if you want to protect your assets without the formalities of a corporation.

4. Create a business plan & secure funds 

Prepare a comprehensive business plan that outlines your business goals, operational procedures, pricing strategy, marketing plan, and financial projections. A solid plan will guide your business decisions and can be crucial for securing financing.

Moving ahead, based on your plan and the budget estimated, consider different funding options, such as small business loans, personal savings, or investments from partners. Ensure you have sufficient capital on hand to cover startup costs and initial operations.

5. Set up your cleaning business: Get registration, business license, insurance, and accounting

Check with your local city or county about required licenses and permits to operate a cleaning business. This will help to protect your new business from any legal complications. 

Next, securing general liability insurance is crucial. This insurance will protect you against unfortunate financial events resulting from accidents, such as damage to client property or injuries to third parties that occur during cleaning. 

Once you fulfill legal formalities, shift your focus to streamlining accounting operations. Consider using automated software that can track your business expenses and income, automate bookkeeping operations, and simplify the complexities of financial management.

6. Equip your cleaning business with the required supplies and equipment

To offer quality cleaning services, you must be clear about the niche and services you want to provide. You can choose one niche from the below options: 

• Sanitization and disinfection
• Residential/ house cleaning services
• Commercial cleaning services
• Pressure washing services
• Pool cleaning
• Janitorial services

Based on your niche, you should focus on purchasing the best-class equipment and resources for your business.

7. Fix your rates

Setting competitive and fair pricing is critical to the success of your cleaning business. Start by researching the local market to understand what competitors are charging and what services they offer at those rates. 

Analyzing competitors’ pricing structures will help you set service prices and ensure that you offer higher value to your clients. Before finalizing your service price, you must include the profit margins, labor hours, other fees, and taxes. 

You can set prices based on flat rate, room rate, square foot rate, hourly rate, and specialty services rate.

Additionally, consider offering discounts for recurring services to encourage long-term contracts. Communicate your rates and any conditions on your website and marketing materials to maintain transparency with potential clients.

8. Market your cleaning business

Marketing helps to promote the professional cleaning business among your target audience. Both organic and inorganic marketing strategies boost your reach and visibility. Additionally, you can use digital marketing strategies to scale your residential and commercial cleaning services. 

Communication is also the key to maintaining your customer base. So, increase communication with existing and new clients and give them different incentives, discounts, and multiple special offers to retain current customers. 

Moreover, you can also develop referral programs to bring on new customers when you have high customer satisfaction.

9. Hire the right employees 

Creating a team of employees based on your business structure can assist you in achieving your desired business goals. It would be best if you analyzed the applicants based on your residential and commercial cleaning business requirements.

This will help you to understand their thinking and skill levels to handle operations in real-world scenarios.

Below are some of the useful tips that will help you ensure the smooth entry of the right personnel into your cleaning business:

• Start by defining the roles and responsibilities clearly in your job postings. 
• Look for candidates with a good work ethic and a history of reliability. 
• Conduct thorough interviews and consider background checks to ensure trustworthiness, especially since employees will be working in clients’ private spaces. 
• Provide comprehensive training to all new hires to familiarize them with your company’s cleaning standards, customer service expectations, and safety protocols. 
• Foster a positive work environment to retain your best employees, as consistent staff leads to consistent service.

10. Automate your cleaning business with Upper

In the cleaning industry, just as the right tools and supplies are essential for smooth operations, integrating the right cleaning business software to enhance efficiency is also essential. 

Leave behind manual planning and embrace automation with Upper. 

See how Upper can transform your business operations:

• Client detail management: Safely store and access client information to personalize and streamline service.
• Optimized route planning: Plan efficient cleaning routes to ensure timely service and minimize delays.
• Real-time traffic updates: Receive real-time traffic data and road closure updates to save fuel, energy, and time.
• Business analytics: Gain insights from detailed reports and analytics to make data-driven decisions and improve operations.
• GPS tracking: Track your teams in real-time, ensuring timely and efficient service delivery.
• Live updates: Provide live service updates to customers, enhancing communication and satisfaction.

Maximize Cleaning Business Potential

Prompt planning, optimized routes, single-click dispatch to drivers, live traffic updates, and on-time deliveries—Upper assures you of leveling up your operational efficiency.

There are always two sides to a business: advantages and disadvantages. In this section, we will shed more light on both sides.

First, let’s take a look at the pros of starting a cleaning business.

• The cleaning service startup needs minimal capital as it does not require a lot of specialized equipment. Just a microfiber cloth, a vacuum cleaner, and a mop can be sufficient.
• A flexible schedule is another benefit, as you can control everything yourself. You can work a few hours or clean several times a week.
• If you have a good understanding of what your ideal customers want, you can easily complete this task. A general understanding of cleaning and online self-training is enough to start profitable cleaning services.
• With the rapid growth of the cleaning industry, the potential for generating revenue also increases. Cleaners are adopting advanced technologies for more efficient cleaning.

Following the pros, it’s time to talk about the cons of a cleaning company.

• Cleaning services require a lot of manual labor, such as wiping surfaces, cleaning toilets, and mopping floors. The operation of a heavy vacuum cleaner is also tiring. Other cleaning chores like washing windows on a hot sunny day can also take a toll on you.
• Due to the growing demand for cleaning services, you will always be competing with your competitors at lower prices. Many cleaners would start offering the service for half the price you charge to retain a contract.
• If you work as a professional cleaner, you will maintain specific cleaning equipment. This equipment can get damaged or break down and may need repairs over time, which can be costly. Therefore, it is important to be prepared for these additional costs and avoid damage. 
• The cleaning industry often has high employee turnover, which can be very costly and time-consuming for your business. It is important to avoid this as much as possible by offering competitive salaries, benefits, and a positive work environment.

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To start with, research the market, choose your niche, and decide what you will offer. Then, register your business, obtain the necessary licenses, permits, and insurance, and invest in quality cleaning supplies and equipment.

Cleaning businesses can be highly profitable, especially with low startup costs and the continuous demand for cleaning services in residential and commercial spaces.

The residential cleaning business is often the easiest to start. Followed by the business structure, an LLC is popular for providing liability protection and tax flexibility.

Yes, you’ll likely need a general business license from your local city or county.

Typically, you need a business license, liability insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance when hiring employees to run your cleaning business.

Because of a few reasons like low entry barriers, minimal operational costs, flexible working hours, and potential for steady income, it is worth starting a cleaning business.

Leverage personal networks, create attractive promotional offers, and use local advertising and social media to attract clients.

Use online advertising (Google Ads, social media), local flyers, business cards, and promotional events.

Cleaning has always been an on-demand industry with high-income potential. Therefore, starting your own house cleaning business is a smart move that goes beyond just registering your business. All you need to do is strengthen your foundation, overcome challenges, and implement result-oriented tips to stand out from your existing competition.

Also, timely advancements are essential to level up your existing business potential. Embrace innovation and continuously seek ways to improve your services and operations.

One way to start is trying Upper, an efficient cleaning business software that is completely free for 7 days . You can even book a demo with us to get detailed insights.

Rakesh Patel, author of two defining books on reverse geotagging, is a trusted authority in routing and logistics. His innovative solutions at Upper Route Planner have simplified logistics for businesses across the board. A thought leader in the field, Rakesh's insights are shaping the future of modern-day logistics, making him your go-to expert for all things route optimization. Read more.

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It’s only a matter of time before something breaks, needs a bit of upkeep, or even just some tidying up. This means someone with an eye for organization and the know-how to fix it is needed. So why not take your knack for keeping things running and turn it into a cleaning, repair, or maintenance business?

Quickly get your new business up and running by starting with one of our sample business plans. You can take the guesswork out of planning and get inspired by proven cleaning service, landscaping, auto detailing, and a number of other business plans.

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