1. Choose Your Cleaning Niche
Decide what type of cleaning service you’ll offer:
- Domestic cleaning (homes, apartments)
- Commercial cleaning (offices, retail, gyms)
- Specialist cleaning (carpets, windows, end-of-tenancy, after-builders)
Choose based on your skills, local demand, and resources.
2. Create a Business Plan
Your business plan should cover:
- Services offered and pricing model
- Target customers and area coverage
- Competitor analysis
- Start-up and running costs
- Marketing and growth strategy
A solid plan helps clarify your goals and attract funding if needed.
3. Register Your Cleaning Business
Set up your legal structure:
- Sole Trader – simple, but you’re personally liable
- Limited Company – more protection and credibility
Register with: - HMRC if sole trader
- Companies House if limited company
Also consider a business bank account for financial management.
4. Get Cleaning Insurance
Insurance is vital for:
- Public liability (accidents or damage at client sites)
- Employers’ liability (if hiring staff)
- Tool/equipment cover
Most clients expect proof of insurance before hiring you.
5. Purchase Equipment and Supplies
Basic equipment may include:
- Vacuum cleaner
- Mops, buckets, cloths
- Eco-friendly or industrial cleaning products
- PPE (gloves, masks, aprons)
Keep receipts—these are deductible business expenses.
6. Set Competitive Pricing
Common pricing models:
- Hourly rate (e.g., £15–£25/hr for domestic)
- Fixed price per job (end-of-tenancy, commercial)
- Consider travel time, cleaning time, and cost of materials when setting prices.
7. Build Your Brand Identity
Stand out with:
- Business name and logo
- Branded uniforms or vehicle signage
- Simple website and social media profiles
- Online booking and quote tools (optional)
Professional branding builds trust and attracts customers.
8. Market Your Cleaning Business
Use both online and offline channels:
- Leaflets or flyers in local areas
- Google My Business listing
- Facebook groups and local directories
- Referral programs for satisfied clients
- Reviews on Trustpilot or Checkatrade
Start small, focus on delivering great service, and build word-of-mouth.
9. Manage Your Finances and Taxes
Track income and expenses using:
- Spreadsheets or accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero)
- Register for VAT if turnover exceeds £90,000
- Submit a Self Assessment tax return annually
Hire an accountant if unsure about compliance.
10. Grow Your Business Over Time
As your client base expands:
- Hire and train employees
- Invest in better tools and vehicles
- Expand services or geographic areas
- Consider contracts with landlords or businesses
Maintain service quality and seek reviews to build a trusted reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a licence to start a cleaning business in the UK?
No general licence is required, but specialist services (e.g., waste removal) may need permits.
2. How much does it cost to start a cleaning business UK?
You can start with as little as £500 for basic equipment and marketing materials.
3. Can I run a cleaning business from home?
Yes. Store your supplies at home and travel to clients. No physical office is needed.
4. How do I find clients for my cleaning business?
Start locally, use flyers and online ads, join Facebook groups, and ask for referrals.
5. Is cleaning a profitable business in the UK?
Yes. Low startup costs, recurring clients, and high demand make it one of the most accessible and profitable service businesses.
6. Do I need to hire staff immediately?
Not at first. Start solo, then hire once demand increases to avoid overcommitment.
Conclusion
Starting a cleaning business UK in 2025 offers a low-cost, high-demand path to self-employment. With the right planning, equipment, and commitment to service quality, you can build a reliable income and even scale your business. Follow these steps, stay consistent, and your cleaning company could soon be the most trusted in town.