1. Why Start a Cleaning Business in the UK?
A cleaning business is:
- Low-cost to start
- In constant demand (domestic and commercial sectors)
- Flexible with working hours
- Scalable with team growth
- Profitable with the right strategy
2. Choose Your Cleaning Niche
Decide what type of cleaning service you’ll offer:
- Domestic cleaning (homes and flats)
- Commercial cleaning (offices, warehouses, schools)
- End-of-tenancy cleaning
- Carpet or upholstery cleaning
- Window or gutter cleaning
- Specialist services (post-construction, eco-cleaning)
3. Legal Setup and Registration
- Register as a sole trader or limited company via HMRC or Companies House
- Open a business bank account
- Get insurance:
- Public liability (essential)
- Employer’s liability (if hiring staff)
- Equipment and vehicle cover
- Optional: Register with the ICO if storing customer data
4. Get Cleaning Supplies and Equipment
You’ll need:
- Cloths, mops, buckets, vacuums
- Eco-friendly or specialised cleaning products
- Uniforms (optional but professional)
- A reliable transport vehicle
Start small—buy only the essentials and scale as you grow.
5. Set Your Pricing Structure
Choose how to charge:
- Hourly rate (e.g., £15–£25/hour for domestic, £25–£40/hour for commercial)
- Flat rate (for fixed tasks like end-of-tenancy cleans)
- Consider costs like travel, materials, time, and overheads
- Offer quotes or online estimate forms
6. Create a Business Plan
Include:
- Services offered
- Target market
- Local competition
- Pricing and packages
- Startup and running costs
- Goals and marketing plan
A business plan helps guide decisions and secure funding if needed.
7. Market Your Cleaning Business
- Build a basic website with service descriptions and contact info
- Register on Google Business Profile, Yell, Bark, and Checkatrade
- Use local Facebook groups, flyers, and community boards
- Offer introductory discounts or referral bonuses
- Collect and promote customer reviews
8. Manage Operations and Customer Service
- Use a simple booking system (even a spreadsheet to start)
- Respond to inquiries quickly
- Be punctual and reliable
- Offer flexible schedules for domestic clients
- Track income and expenses for tax returns
9. Grow Your Business Over Time
- Hire part-time or full-time staff
- Expand into new areas or services
- Use scheduling and invoicing software (e.g., Jobber, QuickBooks)
- Consider fleet vehicles and branded uniforms for professionalism
- Build client loyalty with loyalty discounts or follow-ups
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a license needed to start a cleaning business in the UK?
No, but insurance is essential, and you must register with HMRC.
How much does it cost to start a cleaning business?
From as little as £500 to £2,000 depending on scale and equipment.
Can I run a cleaning business from home?
Yes, most cleaning businesses operate without a physical office.
Do I need cleaning experience?
Not legally, but knowledge improves quality and customer trust.
Should I register for VAT?
Only if turnover exceeds £90,000/year (as of 2025). Otherwise, optional.
How do I get my first cleaning clients?
Start with family, friends, referrals, local Facebook groups, and leaflet drops.
Conclusion
Starting a cleaning business in the UK is a smart, accessible path for entrepreneurs looking for low startup costs and consistent demand. With strong organisation, service quality, and smart marketing, you can build a profitable and respected cleaning company.