Thinking about turning your knack for making spaces sparkle into a profitable business? Here’s everything you need to know about launching and growing a successful cleaning business in the UK.
So, you’re considering starting your own cleaning business. Maybe you’ve been cleaning for an agency and fancy keeping the full rate rather than watching them pocket half. Perhaps you’re looking for flexible work that fits around family commitments. Or possibly you just really, genuinely enjoy cleaning (yes, those people exist, and they’re brilliant) and reckon you could make a proper go of it.
Whatever your reasons, you’re onto something. The domestic cleaning industry in the UK is thriving, with increasing numbers of households seeking professional help. People are busier than ever, and attitudes towards hiring domestic help have shifted dramatically. It’s no longer seen as a luxury – it’s a practical solution for busy families, professionals, and anyone who’d rather spend their weekends doing literally anything other than scrubbing toilets.
But here’s the thing: whilst starting a cleaning business has relatively low barriers to entry, building a successful cleaning business requires more than just knowing how to wield a mop effectively. You need to understand the market, set competitive rates, find clients, manage relationships, and handle the business side of things.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to launch and grow a thriving cleaning business in 2025.
Understanding the UK Cleaning Market
Let’s start with the good news: demand for domestic cleaning services is strong and growing. The UK market is estimated at over £8 billion annually, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.
The Current Landscape
Independent cleaners are gaining ground over traditional agencies. Why? Because modern technology – particularly platforms like Trader Street – makes it easy for cleaners to find clients directly, without agencies taking 30-50% of their earnings. Homeowners appreciate lower prices and personal relationships. Cleaners appreciate keeping their full rate and having autonomy over their work.
The agency model still exists, of course. Some cleaners prefer the steady stream of work and lack of administrative hassle that comes with agency employment. But the trade-off is significant: agencies typically pay cleaners £10-£15 per hour whilst charging clients £18-£30 per hour. That’s a substantial chunk you could be keeping for yourself.
Regional variations matter. London and the South East command the highest rates but also have the most competition and highest costs of living. Other regions offer solid earning potential with potentially less competition. Understanding your local market is crucial.
What Clients Are Looking For
Successful cleaners understand what clients actually value:
Reliability above almost everything else. Show up when you say you will. Don’t cancel unless it’s genuinely unavoidable. This sounds basic, but you’d be amazed how many cleaners fall down here. Be the one who doesn’t, and you’ll have clients for life.
Quality and attention to detail. Anyone can give surfaces a quick wipe. Exceptional cleaners notice the dusty skirting boards, the fingerprints on light switches, the limescale building up on taps. Going that extra mile creates raving fans.
Trustworthiness is paramount. Clients are inviting you into their homes, often when they’re not there. They’re trusting you with their belongings, their space, their keys. Treat this trust with the respect it deserves, and word-of-mouth recommendations will follow.
Good communication makes everything smoother. Respond to messages promptly. Let clients know if you’re running late. Send a quick photo showing the completed clean. These small touches create confidence and satisfaction.
Flexibility – within reason. Life happens. Clients appreciate cleaners who can occasionally reschedule or accommodate special requests. But equally, successful cleaners set clear boundaries about their availability and stick to them.
Setting Your Rates: What Should You Charge?
This is often the trickiest question for new cleaners. Charge too little and you’ll be run off your feet without making decent money. Charge too much and you’ll struggle to find clients. Let’s break this down properly.
Understanding Market Rates in 2025
London and South East:
- Experienced cleaners: £18-£25 per hour
- New cleaners: £15-£18 per hour
- Specialist services: £20-£30+ per hour
Major cities (Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds):
- Experienced cleaners: £15-£20 per hour
- New cleaners: £12-£16 per hour
- Specialist services: £18-£25 per hour
Other regions:
- Experienced cleaners: £13-£18 per hour
- New cleaners: £12-£14 per hour
- Specialist services: £16-£22 per hour
But these are just starting points. Your actual rate should factor in:
Variables That Affect Your Rate
Your experience and expertise matter. If you’ve got ten years’ experience, glowing references, and specialist training, you can command higher rates. Starting out with no track record? You might need to begin at the lower end to build your reputation, then increase rates as you establish yourself.
What you’re providing affects pricing. If you’re bringing professional-grade equipment (a decent vacuum, mops, microfibre cloths) and premium cleaning products, you should factor this into your rate. Many cleaners add £2-£5 per hour to cover supplies, or charge an extra £3-£5 per clean.
Property size and condition influence the job. A well-maintained two-bedroom flat is very different from a four-bedroom house that hasn’t been properly cleaned in months. Don’t be afraid to quote differently for different properties.
Regular vs. one-off cleaning. Most cleaners offer discounts for regular weekly or fortnightly bookings – typically 10-15% off. Why? Because regular clients provide steady income, you get to know the property, and it doesn’t get as dirty between cleans, making your job easier.
Frequency matters for costing. A house cleaned weekly needs less time than the same house cleaned monthly, because dirt and grime haven’t had as long to accumulate. Factor this into your pricing.
Calculating Your Actual Earnings
Let’s be realistic about what you’ll actually take home. If you’re charging £16 per hour, you’re not pocketing £16 per hour. Here’s what you need to account for:
Business costs:
- Public liability insurance: £100-£200 per year
- Cleaning supplies: £150-£300 per year (if you provide them)
- Equipment: £200-£500 initially, then £50-£100 per year replacement/maintenance
- Travel costs: Variable, but typically £10-£30 per week in fuel
- Phone and internet: £30-£50 per month
- Marketing: £0-£200 per year (Trader Street is free; other advertising costs money)
Tax obligations:
- Self-employment income tax: Typically 20% once you earn over £12,570
- National Insurance: Class 2 and Class 4 contributions
- Consider hiring an accountant (£300-£500 per year) to keep everything straight
Let’s look at a realistic example:
You charge £16 per hour and work 25 hours per week cleaning (remember, you’ll also spend time travelling, communicating with clients, and managing the business).
- Gross income: 25 hours × £16 × 48 working weeks = £19,200 per year
- Less business costs: Approximately £2,500 per year
- Less tax and NI: Approximately £2,000 per year
- Actual take-home: Around £14,700 per year
That works out to about £11.75 per hour of actual cleaning work – still decent, but notably less than the £16 you’re charging. Understanding this helps you set appropriate rates.
Structuring Your Pricing
Hourly rates are the most common approach for domestic cleaning. Simple, transparent, and easy for both you and clients to understand. The downside? If you work efficiently, you potentially earn less.
Fixed prices per property can work well once you know a property. You might charge £60 for a thorough clean of a three-bedroom house, regardless of whether it takes you 3 or 4 hours. This rewards efficiency but requires accurate estimation.
Package deals appeal to regular clients. For example, “£200 per month for four weekly 3-hour cleans” feels less expensive than “£50 per clean” even though it’s the same thing. Psychology matters.
Add-on services provide additional income. Deep oven clean for £30, inside fridges for £15, ironing at £10 per hour, interior windows at £20. These extras can significantly boost your earnings.
Getting Started: The Practical Steps
Right, enough theory. Let’s talk about actually launching your business.
Legal and Administrative Setup
Register as self-employed with HMRC. You can do this online – it’s straightforward and free. You need to do this by 5th October in your business’s second tax year, but honestly, do it immediately when you start. Don’t risk penalties.
Choose your business structure. Most domestic cleaners operate as sole traders initially. It’s simple, requires no registration fee (unlike a limited company), and you keep complete control. You can always incorporate later if your business grows substantially.
Get proper insurance – this is absolutely non-negotiable. You need:
Public liability insurance covers you if you accidentally damage a client’s property or if someone is injured because of your work. This typically costs £100-£200 per year and is worth every penny. Clients will ask to see proof, and you’ll sleep better knowing you’re covered.
Consider employers’ liability insurance if you plan to hire any staff, even part-time help. This is legally required if you employ anyone.
Business equipment insurance covers your cleaning equipment and supplies. Not essential when starting out with basic equipment, but worth considering as you invest in expensive machinery.
Open a business bank account. Whilst not legally required for sole traders, it makes life so much easier come tax time. Keep business income and expenses completely separate from personal finances. Your future self will thank you.
Essential Equipment and Supplies
Starting a cleaning business doesn’t require a huge investment. Here’s what you actually need:
The basics (£100-£200):
- Reliable vacuum cleaner (domestic quality is fine initially)
- Mop and bucket
- Microfibre cloths (buy plenty – at least 20)
- Scrubbing brushes (various sizes)
- Dustpan and brush
- Rubber gloves (multiple pairs)
- Caddy or basket to carry supplies
Cleaning products (£50-£100):
- Multi-surface cleaner
- Bathroom cleaner
- Kitchen degreaser
- Glass cleaner
- Floor cleaner
- Toilet cleaner
- Descaler
- Washing up liquid
Consider eco-friendly options – many clients specifically request these, and they’re often better for you too, given how much time you’ll spend using them.
Nice-to-haves as you grow (£200-£500):
- Professional-grade vacuum cleaner
- Steam cleaner
- Carpet spot cleaner
- Extension poles for high dusting
- Professional mop system
- Additional specialist cleaning products
Building Your Online Presence
In 2025, having some online visibility is essential. The good news? It needn’t be complicated or expensive.
Create a Trader Street profile (free and crucial). This is where most of your clients will find you. Include:
- Clear, professional photos of yourself (people hire people, not faceless services)
- Detailed description of your services
- Your rates and availability
- Your experience and any qualifications
- Professional memberships (if any)
- Clear photos of your work (always ask permission before photographing client homes)
Set up a Facebook business page (free). Even a basic page helps establish legitimacy. Post occasionally about your services, cleaning tips, before-and-after photos (with permission). Join local community groups where people ask for cleaner recommendations.
Consider a simple website (optional, £5-£10 per month). Platforms like Wix or Squarespace make this easy. Include your services, rates, contact information, and testimonials. You don’t need anything fancy.
Google My Business listing (free). Essential for appearing in local searches. Set this up with your service area, contact details, and services offered.
WhatsApp Business (free). Many clients prefer messaging via WhatsApp. The business version lets you set up automated responses and looks more professional.
Finding Your First Clients
This is where the rubber meets the road. You’re set up, you’re ready to go, but how do you actually get people to hire you?
Leveraging Trader Street
Create an outstanding profile. This is your shop window. Put effort into:
- Professional, friendly photos showing you look trustworthy and approachable
- Detailed service descriptions that answer questions clients might have
- Clear pricing without hidden surprises
- Quick response promises
- Any special offerings (eco-friendly, pet-friendly, flexible hours)
Respond quickly to enquiries. When someone messages you, reply within an hour if possible. Even if you can’t provide a full response immediately, acknowledge their message: “Thanks for getting in touch! I’m just finishing a clean but will respond properly within the hour.” Quick responses often win the job.
Ask for reviews early and often. After each successful clean, send a polite message: “I’m so glad you’re happy with the clean! Would you mind leaving a quick review on my Trader Street profile? It really helps my small business.” Most satisfied clients are happy to do this; they just need reminding.
Traditional Marketing Methods
Word of mouth remains incredibly powerful. Do excellent work, be lovely to work with, and ask satisfied clients to recommend you to friends and neighbours. Consider offering a referral discount: “Recommend a friend and you both get £10 off your next clean.”
Local advertising works for cleaning services:
- Leaflets through doors in target areas (tedious but effective)
- Notices in local shops, libraries, community centres
- Local Facebook community groups (be helpful, not spammy)
- Nextdoor app (great for local services)
- Cards in local newsagents
Target specific audiences:
- Rental property landlords often need regular cleaning services
- Estate agents need cleaners for end-of-tenancy cleans
- Airbnb hosts need regular turnaround cleaning
- Small offices and commercial spaces
- New parent groups (they’re tired and need help!)
Pricing for Growth
Start competitive to build your reputation. When you’re new and have no reviews or referrals, you might need to price at the lower end of the market. That’s okay – you’re building your portfolio and reputation. Once you’ve got 5-10 regular clients and solid reviews, gradually increase your rates.
Don’t compete on price alone. Trying to be the absolute cheapest is a race to the bottom. Instead, offer excellent service, reliability, and attention to detail at fair prices. The clients who only care about the cheapest option are often the most difficult to please.
Special introductory offers can work well: “First clean 20% off for new clients” or “Get 10% off your first month of regular cleaning.” These lower the barrier to trying your services.
Delivering Exceptional Service
You’ve got clients – brilliant! Now you need to keep them happy and build a reputation that generates referrals.
Your Cleaning Routine
Develop a systematic approach. Having a consistent routine ensures you don’t miss anything and work efficiently. Most cleaners work top-to-bottom and back-to-front in each room:
- Start with bedrooms and living areas
- Then bathrooms
- Kitchen last (usually the dirtiest)
- Vacuum and mop floors throughout at the very end
Time management matters. Clients are paying for your time, so work efficiently. That doesn’t mean rushing – it means having a system and sticking to it, not wandering aimlessly between rooms.
Quality control checks. Before you leave, walk through the entire property checking you’ve done everything:
- Dust visible surfaces
- Vacuum/mop all floors
- Clean all mirrors and glass
- Bathroom fixtures sparkle
- Kitchen surfaces clear and clean
- Bins emptied
- Nothing left out of place
Communication Excellence
Set expectations clearly from the start. Make sure you and your client agree on:
- Exactly what’s included in your clean
- How long it will take
- What supplies you need them to provide (if any)
- Access arrangements
- Payment terms
- Communication preferences
Update clients appropriately. A quick message when you arrive (“Just started at yours, should be finished around 2pm”) and when you leave (“All done! House is looking lovely. See you next week.”) provides reassurance. Some clients appreciate photos of the completed clean.
Be proactive about issues. If you notice you’re running low on their cleaning supplies, let them know. If you accidentally break something, own up immediately and offer to replace it. If you need to reschedule, give as much notice as possible.
Accept feedback gracefully. If a client mentions something they’d like done differently, don’t get defensive. Thank them for letting you know and make sure you do it their way next time. Different people have different preferences – that’s fine.
Building Long-Term Relationships
Consistency breeds loyalty. Turn up on time, do excellent work, be pleasant and professional. Do this every single week, and you’ll have clients for years.
Remember personal details. Make notes about clients: their pets’ names, whether they’re going on holiday, if they’ve got family visiting. Asking “How was your holiday in Portugal?” makes clients feel valued.
Go the extra mile occasionally. If you finish with time to spare, wipe down the bins or clean inside the microwave without being asked. Little extras create raving fans.
Respect boundaries. You’re in clients’ homes, often when they’re not there. Respect their privacy, don’t snoop, don’t use their things. This sounds obvious, but some cleaners have damaged their reputation through nosiness.
Be reliable about rescheduling. Life happens – you get ill, your child gets ill, your car breaks down. When you need to reschedule, give as much notice as possible and offer alternative dates immediately. Consistent last-minute cancellations will lose you clients fast.
Managing the Business Side
Being brilliant at cleaning is only half the equation. You also need to manage the business aspects effectively.
Financial Management
Track every penny. Use an app like QuickBooks Self-Employed (£6 per month) or even a simple spreadsheet. Record:
- All income (who paid you, how much, when)
- All expenses (cleaning supplies, fuel, insurance, equipment)
- Mileage (you can claim this against tax)
Set aside money for tax. A good rule of thumb is to save 25-30% of everything you earn. Put it in a separate savings account and pretend it doesn’t exist. Come tax time, you’ll be grateful.
Invoice professionally. Even if clients pay cash immediately, provide a receipt or invoice. Include:
- Your name and contact details
- Date of service
- What you did (e.g., “3-hour domestic clean”)
- Amount charged
- Payment method
Keep receipts for everything. Buy a folder and chuck every receipt in it. Cleaning supplies, equipment, fuel, insurance, phone bills, professional memberships – all tax-deductible business expenses.
Consider an accountant. Once you’re earning decent money (£15,000+), an accountant can save you money through legitimate tax planning. They typically cost £300-£500 per year – often less than the tax they save you.
Time Management and Scheduling
Be realistic about capacity. You might work 8 hours per day, but factor in:
- Travel time between clients
- Time for breaks (don’t forget these!)
- Admin time (responding to enquiries, invoicing, bookkeeping)
- Shopping for supplies
- Equipment maintenance
Realistically, if you’re working 8-hour days, expect 5-6 hours of actual cleaning time. Plan accordingly.
Strategic scheduling saves time and fuel. Try to book clients in the same geographical area on the same days. Reduce travel time and increase productive hours.
Block booking your week helps maximise earnings:
- Mondays: North area clients
- Tuesdays: South area clients
- Wednesdays: East area clients
- Thursdays: West area clients
- Fridays: Deep cleans/one-offs/admin
Buffer time prevents stress. Don’t book cleans back-to-back with no margin. Allow 30-45 minutes between appointments for travel, traffic, and those inevitable times when a clean takes longer than expected.
Regular clients come first. They’re your reliable income. Book them into fixed weekly slots, then fill gaps with one-offs and deep cleans.
Dealing with Difficult Situations
Clients who don’t pay. Fortunately, this is rare with domestic cleaning since you typically get paid immediately or very shortly after the service. If someone’s late paying:
- Send a polite reminder
- Follow up with a firmer message if needed
- Don’t do further work until you’re paid
- Consider requiring upfront payment from them going forward
Clients with unrealistic expectations. Some people think you can deep clean a five-bedroom house in two hours for £25. You can’t. Be clear about what’s realistic for the time and price. If they insist, politely decline the job.
Properties that are too dirty. Occasionally you’ll encounter homes in a shocking state – think hoarding situations or serious neglect. You’re within your rights to refuse these jobs if they’re beyond normal domestic cleaning. If you choose to take them on, charge appropriately (often double your normal rate) and ensure you’ve got adequate PPE.
Boundary violations. If a client makes you uncomfortable, asks you to do something inappropriate, or treats you disrespectfully, you can end that working relationship. Your wellbeing matters more than any single client.
Cancellation frustrations. Some clients will cancel regularly with little notice. Implement a clear cancellation policy: “I require 24 hours’ notice for cancellations. Less than 24 hours means you’ll be charged 50% of the booking.” Stick to it.
Growing Your Business
Once you’ve got a solid client base and everything’s running smoothly, you might consider expanding.
Increasing Your Earning Potential
Raise your rates periodically. As you gain experience, expertise, and an excellent reputation, your rates should increase. A 5-10% increase annually is reasonable. Inform existing clients with a month’s notice: “From 1st April, my rate will be increasing to £18 per hour to reflect rising costs and my expanded experience.”
Add specialist services. Develop skills in higher-paying areas:
- Deep oven cleaning (£30-£50 per oven)
- Carpet cleaning (£50-£100 per room)
- Window cleaning (£40-£80 per property)
- End of tenancy cleaning (£150-£400 per property)
- Post-renovation cleaning (premium rates)
Target commercial clients. Small offices, shops, and commercial spaces often pay better than domestic clients and provide regular, reliable work. Competition is tougher, but it’s worth exploring.
Offer package deals. “Book a monthly deep clean for £200 and get one end-of-tenancy clean at 20% off” encourages regular bookings and generates advance income.
Hiring Help
When you’ve got more work than you can handle alone, consider taking on help:
Casual subcontractors are the simplest option initially. You pay them per hour or per job, and they’re responsible for their own tax. Make sure you both understand they’re self-employed contractors, not employees.
Employing staff gives you more control but comes with significant responsibilities:
- PAYE tax and National Insurance
- Employers’ liability insurance
- Employment contracts
- Minimum wage compliance
- Holiday pay
- Potential for employment disputes
Start small. Perhaps bring someone in to help with deep cleans or larger properties initially. See how you work together before committing to more.
Vet thoroughly. Anyone working under your business name reflects on your reputation. Check references carefully, work alongside them initially, and make sure they meet your standards.
Building a Brand
As you grow, consider developing a stronger brand identity:
Professional branding materials:
- Logo and colour scheme
- Branded t-shirts or polo shirts
- Vehicle signage if you’ve got a van
- Professional business cards
- Branded cleaning caddies
Specialisation can set you apart:
- The eco-friendly cleaner
- The pet-friendly specialist
- The end-of-tenancy expert
- The luxury home specialist
Professional development demonstrates commitment:
- BICSc training courses
- COSHH certification
- First aid training
- Specialist cleaning qualifications
Why Trader Street Changes Everything
Traditional routes to building a cleaning business involve either working for agencies (where they take 30-50% of your earnings) or expensive advertising and hoping people find you. Trader Street offers a better way.
Direct client connections mean you keep 100% of what you charge. No agency taking their cut. No platform fees. Just you and your clients agreeing on fair terms.
Built-in trust mechanisms through verified reviews and profiles help clients feel confident hiring you, even if you’re just starting out. Your brilliant service turns into five-star reviews, which attract more clients – a virtuous cycle.
Professional presentation without expensive website development. Your Trader Street profile showcases your services, experience, rates, and reviews in a format that clients trust and understand.
Local visibility puts you in front of people in your area who are actively looking for cleaning services. No paying for advertising that might not reach the right people.
Direct communication means you can discuss specific requirements, answer questions, and build rapport before even meeting clients. This leads to better matches and longer-lasting relationships.
Control and flexibility allow you to choose which clients you work with, set your own rates, and build your business exactly how you want it.
Your Action Plan to Launch
Ready to get started? Here’s your step-by-step guide:
Week 1: Foundation
- Register as self-employed with HMRC
- Get public liability insurance
- Open a business bank account
- Buy essential equipment and supplies
Week 2: Online Presence
- Create comprehensive Trader Street profile
- Set up Facebook business page
- Create Google My Business listing
- Prepare service descriptions and pricing
Week 3: Marketing
- Tell everyone you know about your new business
- Join local Facebook groups
- Print leaflets for targeted areas
- Reach out to potential clients
Week 4: First Clients
- Offer introductory discounts to first few clients
- Do exceptional work
- Request reviews and referrals
- Refine your processes based on experience
Ongoing:
- Respond to enquiries quickly
- Deliver consistent, excellent service
- Request reviews after every job
- Gradually increase rates as you gain experience
- Continuously market your services
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Starting a cleaning business is genuinely achievable. You don’t need extensive capital, formal qualifications, or years of experience. What you need is:
- A commitment to delivering excellent service
- Reliability and professionalism
- Willingness to work hard
- Basic business sense
- Decent communication skills
If you’ve got those things, you can build a successful, profitable cleaning business that provides flexibility, independence, and genuine satisfaction from helping people enjoy cleaner, more organised homes.
Will it be easy? Not always. You’ll have difficult clients occasionally, demanding work, and days when you wonder what you’ve got yourself into. But you’ll also have the freedom to set your own schedule, the satisfaction of building something yourself, and the financial rewards of keeping everything you earn.
Thousands of people across the UK are making good livings as independent cleaners. With the right approach, platforms like Trader Street to connect you with clients, and a commitment to excellence, there’s absolutely no reason you can’t be one of them.
So go on – give it a go. Your future clients (and your bank account) are waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any qualifications to start a cleaning business? No formal qualifications are legally required. However, training courses like City & Guilds Level 1 or 2 in Cleaning, BICSc courses, or COSHH training can enhance your credibility and skills. What matters most is providing excellent service and building a strong reputation.
How much can I realistically earn as a cleaner? This varies significantly based on location, hours worked, and your rates. A cleaner working 25-30 hours per week in a major city could earn £18,000-£28,000 per year. London cleaners charging premium rates and working full-time can earn £30,000-£40,000+. Remember to deduct business costs and tax from gross earnings.
Do I need insurance? Yes, public liability insurance is essential. It protects you if you accidentally damage client property or if someone is injured due to your work. It costs around £100-£200 per year and gives both you and your clients peace of mind. Many clients will ask to see proof of insurance.
How do I handle tax as a self-employed cleaner? Register as self-employed with HMRC, keep detailed records of all income and expenses, and file a Self Assessment tax return annually. Set aside 25-30% of your earnings for tax and National Insurance. Consider hiring an accountant once you’re earning over £15,000 – they often save you more than they cost.
Should I bring my own cleaning supplies? This is your choice. Many cleaners bring their own professional products and equipment, adding £2-£5 per hour to their rate to cover costs. This gives you control over quality and lets you work efficiently. Others use client-provided supplies, which clients with allergies or eco-preferences often prefer.
How do I find my first clients? Create a detailed Trader Street profile, offer introductory discounts to first clients, tell everyone you know about your business, distribute leaflets in target areas, and join local Facebook community groups. Word-of-mouth referrals become your best marketing tool once you’ve established yourself.
What if a client isn’t happy with my work? Listen to their concerns without getting defensive, acknowledge the issue, and offer to return to rectify any problems at no charge. Most issues arise from unclear expectations, so always discuss specifics upfront. Use feedback to improve, and remember – you can’t please everyone.
How do I deal with clients who cancel regularly? Implement a clear cancellation policy requiring 24-48 hours’ notice. Less than that incurs a cancellation fee (typically 50% of the booking cost). Communicate this policy clearly from the start and enforce it consistently. Regular last-minute cancellers are not worth keeping as clients.
Should I work alone or hire help? Most cleaners start alone and only consider help once they’ve got more work than they can handle. Hiring creates complications (tax, insurance, management) but allows you to grow beyond what you can do alone. Start solo, master the business, then expand carefully if desired.
Can I refuse certain jobs? Absolutely. You’re self-employed and can choose which work you accept. Be clear about what you will and won’t do in your profile. It’s perfectly reasonable to refuse excessively dirty properties, unreasonable timescales, or clients who make you uncomfortable.
Ready to launch your cleaning business? Create your free Trader Street profile today and start connecting with clients in your area – no agency fees, no commission, just direct relationships and full control over your business.