How to Operate a Commercial Cleaning Business

Cleaning services are in great demand. Businesses need to have their offices and facilities cleaned regularly, and they usually rely on commercial cleaning services. Providing cleaning services to these businesses can be very lucrative. If you have the will and determination, you can start your own commercial cleaning business.

1. Choose a location for your commercial cleaning business. Decide whether you want to operate out of your home or a location in a business district. If you decide to run this business out of your home, then find out about the local zoning laws in your area before you begin. If you are not allowed to run a commercial cleaning business from home, you'll need to find a rental space.


2. Choose a name for your business and register it. Contact the county clerk's office in your area and inquire about how to register your business. Make sure you include "cleaning service" or a similar phrase in your business name. This tells people the kind of business you are operating.


3. Open a business bank account. After you've registered your business name, go to your local bank and open an   account in your business name. A business bank account is where you will be depositing checks you receive from your clients.


4. Purchase liability insurance. Having a liability insurance is a necessity in the commercial cleaning business. It will protect you fully if there is any injury to a person or damages to someone else's property, caused by your business. Be sure to compare several offers before purchasing.


5. Obtain your business supplies and equipment. Purchase the items you need to run your cleaning business. These include brooms, floor cleaners, mops, floor wax, squeegee, trash bags, carpet cleaner, disinfectants, scrub brushes, floor buffer, window cleaners, vacuum cleaner, paper towels, cleaning rags, sponges, rubber gloves, extension rods and buckets.  


6. Provide transportation for your business. Consider getting a van to transport your cleaning supplies and equipment to your job sites. Get it registered in your business name, and be sure it is covered by your insurance policy.


7. Create a website for your cleaning business and get it listed in the search engines. Describe what services your business offers and the fees. Open a merchant account in order to be able to accept credit card payments online or in person.


8. Create a contract that you'll present to your clients. Clearly indicate the various services that the client will get and how much the client will pay you for the services.


9. Advertise your commercial cleaning business in the local newspaper. Distribute your fliers to businesses such as schools, hospitals, arports, corporate offices, banks, car dealerships, restaurants and insurance companies.