How to start a home cleaning business in Australia

The cleaning services industry in Australia is growing. As more people work from home, there’s never been a better time to start your own house cleaning business.

Learn all about how to start your own cleaning business with our six-step checklist.

1. Define your cleaning services

It’s tempting to cast your net wide and offer everything when starting a cleaning business. However, the challenge with being a generalist is that you have to invest in expensive equipment to cover all of your needs, and you’re not specialising in any specific area. This can make it harder to position yourself as an expert in your field.

Not only does specialising in a few core cleaning services enable you to establish yourself in your niche, but it can also enable you to charge higher fees for your services.

2. Choose your business structure

Do you want to operate as a sole trader? Would you rather go for a partnership? Or do you feel that the company structure is ideal?

The business structure you choose can affect your tax obligations, as well as your ongoing business cost. Be sure to discuss with an accountant or legal adviser to understand which option suits your business and your needs.

3. Apply for your ABN and register your business name

An ABN is a unique combination of 11 digits. It enables the government to identify your business and appears on your business documents, including items such as receipts or tax invoices.

Recommended reading: Do Sole Traders Need ABN? – A Complete Guide

4. Reduce the risks to your business with business insurance*

Cleaning – whether residential, commercial or industrial sites – comes with risks. Slips, trips, and other assorted accidents may happen when working as a professional cleaner.

That’s why sanitation service business owners often invest in business insurance products such as:

• Public Liability insurance;
• Business Insurance; and
• Personal Accident and Illness insurance.

5. Purchase the right equipment

If you decide to offer residential cleaning services, the start-up prices may be fairly low, and all you might need are a few high-grade cleaning products and a high-quality vacuum.

However, if you plan on offering commercial cleaning services, do your due diligence and invest in quality cleaning equipment. While this may be costly at first, it will enable you to provide high-quality cleaning services and turn first-time customers into loyal clients.

6. Advertise your cleaning services

Promoting your cleaning services and getting your first client can be daunting. Yet, it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of paid and organic ways to advertise your business. Use your social media channels to talk about your cleaning services, as well as paid ads on Facebook, Instagram, or Google.

You may also consider listing your cleaning services on sites such as Airtasker, Gumtree, Hipages, and Hire a Hubby. You can also print flyers and hand them to local cafes and shops.

Starting your own cleaning company is a big step, and BizCover can support you and your cleaning business by making buying domestic cleaning insurance fast, convenient, and cost-effective. Compare quotes now.