How to start a carpet cleaning business in Australia

Thinking about starting a carpet cleaning company in Australia? This guide is here to help you, from training and certification to buying cleaners insurance

1. Training and certification

Domestic and commercial carpet cleaning is an art and a science. While there are no mandatory training requirements in Australia, getting a certification could help you provide better services to your customers and set yourself apart from the competition.

Training and certification for professional carpet cleaners teaches practical skills, such as identifying fibres, removing stains, safe handling of cleaning chemicals, and how to operate cleaning equipment. Courses can be taken online and may be completed in a matter of days.

2. Write a business plan

Having a detailed plan with specific goals you are working towards could set you up for success. A business plan helps guide important decisions, including the customers you go after and how much you’ll charge for your services.

A business plan may also be required to receive a bank loan or other funding for your carpet cleaning business.

3. Register your business

Small businesses must complete a few steps to make their operation legal in Australia. These may vary slightly depending on your state or territory, but generally, you will need to:

• Decide on a business structure, such as a sole trader, company, or partnership..
• Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN), an 11-digit number that identifies your business. You will need an ABN to issue invoices and collect and pay GST (if necessary).
• Register your business name if you plan to do business under a name other than your own. You might also want to take the additional step of trademarking or copyrighting your business name.

4. Buy equipment and supplies

Investing in quality equipment is essential for any carpet cleaning business. Cheap supplies and equipment could damage a customer’s carpeting—an expensive error you’ll want to avoid! Buying good equipment might also help you save on repair or replacement costs, especially if you follow care and maintenance instructions.

5. Consider cleaners insurance

Every small business faces risks. Working carefully and following safety precautions may help, but accidents can still happen. You might consider policies such as:

Public Liability – This cover can help if you accidentally damage a customer’s property or cause them injury.

Business Insurance – This cover can be customised to help you with events such as replacing lost or stolen equipment, repairing broken equipment, or handling unplanned business interruptions.

Personal Accident & Illness – This cover can help you keep paying the bills if you are unable to work due to a serious illness or injury.

6. Get carpet cleaning contracts

With your business set up, equipment ready to go, and insurance sorted, it’s time to find customers! There are many ways to advertise your cleaning services. You may opt for traditional methods (like print and radio ads), digital advertising (online and through social media), or a combination of the two.

And don’t forget about your personal network! Referrals made by friends and family could help you get carpet cleaning contracts. Those happy customers may refer you to others in return, creating “free” advertising for your carpet cleaning company.

BizCover makes buying business insurance simple—no complicated paperwork, no dramas. Compare policies from top Australian insurers, buy online in minutes, and get covered instantly. Learn more about cleaners insurance and get your free quotes today.