How to Start a House Cleaning Business: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Aug 28
- 3 min read
Thinking about starting a house cleaning business? Whether you're planning to offer maid services, deep cleaning, or specialize in Airbnb and short-term rental cleaning, the demand for professional cleaning services continues to grow. But before you grab your mop and bucket, it’s important to understand the steps to launch your business the right way—and protect it with the right insurance.
At Wexford Insurance, we help cleaning professionals find tailored insurance coverage for everything from post-construction cleaning to apartment cleaning services. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to start a house cleaning business and set yourself up for long-term success.
Step 1: Choose Your Cleaning Niche
Start by deciding what kind of cleaning services you’ll offer. Some popular niches include:
Deep Cleaning Services
Recurring Maid Services
Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning
Post-Construction Final Cleans
Short-Term Rental (Airbnb) Cleaning
Apartment and Condo Cleaning
🔗 Read more: Cleaning service types
Step 2: Register Your Business
Choose a business name and register it with your local government. You may need:
A business license
An EIN (Employer Identification Number)
A local operating permit
Step 3: Invest in Basic Equipment and Supplies
Start with essential cleaning tools:
Vacuum cleaner and mop
Microfiber cloths and brushes
Eco-friendly cleaning products
Protective gloves and masks
As your business grows, you can invest in commercial-grade equipment for larger jobs.
Step 4: Set Your Pricing Structure
Pricing depends on service type, location, and frequency. Common models include:
Hourly rates
Flat-rate per job
Tiered packages (basic, deep clean, premium)
🧠 Tip: Research competitors in your area to stay competitive.
Step 5: Market Your Business
Build a strong online presence:
Create a website with service details and contact info
List your business on Google, Yelp, and local directories
Use social media to showcase before-and-after photos
Offer referral discounts or first-time client promotions to attract new customers.
Market Your Cleaning Business with Contractor Back Office
Contractor Back Office helps house cleaning businesses build a professional brand by managing websites, CRM systems, and social media platforms. These tools make it easier to promote your services, showcase client testimonials, and attract new customers online.
Step 6: Get the Right Insurance Coverage
Cleaning businesses face risks like property damage, chemical exposure, and employee injuries. That’s why insurance is essential.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in house cleaning business insurance tailored to your services. Here are five types of coverage to consider:
Protects against claims of property damage or injury during cleaning jobs.
Covers medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job.
Covers vehicles used to transport cleaning supplies and staff.
Protects your cleaning gear from theft or damage.
5.Commercial Property Insurance
Covers damage to the property.
Final Thoughts
Starting a house cleaning business is a smart move in today’s service-driven economy. With the right niche, tools, pricing, and insurance, you’ll be ready to build a reliable and profitable operation.
Need help insuring your cleaning business?
Visit Wexford Insurance to explore our specialized insurance programs for cleaning professionals.
