If you are interested in a lucrative market, starting a cleaning business in the UK would be a great opportunity to join an expanding industry. The cleaning sector is growing for both domestic cleaning and businesses outsourcing their cleaning. To start your own cleaning business, you will follow similar steps to starting any other business. You will need to identify your target market, obtain the necessary certificates and qualifications, set a budget and finance plan, create a business plan, decide on pricing, find the right audience, and have a plan for business growth.
However, the cleaning industry is extremely competitive, and it is important to stand out. To do so, here are some tips. It is essential to know the three types of cleaning: clean, sanitise, and disinfect. Cleaning involves removing dirt, tidying, and organising using basic cleaning agents found at home. Sanitising involves using chemicals and cleaning agents to remove germs and bacteria from frequently touched surface areas like doorknobs, TV controllers, and kitchen utensils. Disinfecting involves completely sterilising an area by applying a cleaning agent and allowing it to take effect.
You have two options for starting a cleaning business in the UK: being self-employed or part of a franchise. Domestic cleaning is generally less complicated and charged at a rate of £10-£15 per hour. Commercial cleaning has a higher hourly rate, up to £70, as it requires more manpower and commercial equipment. Consider starting a small business before expanding it into a franchise or joining a franchise as a franchisee.
There are no legal requirements for starting a cleaning business, but you may want to obtain a certificate to demonstrate your level of expertise. Charging rates should cover expenses and equipment, and depending on the services provided and experience, you could charge more for commercial cleaning. Both self-employed and franchise cleaning businesses have the potential to earn a salary of around £21,000 per year. It ultimately depends on your preference for managing staff and the size of the area you would like to cover.
