How to Own a Janitorial Business
- 1). Decide where you want to run the janitorial business from. You could operate either from a rented location or from home, depending on how much startup capital you have. Starting at home is a good way to keep expenses low. You will need enough space to store your cleaning supplies and equipment. Be sure to familiarize yourself with your local zoning laws on running a home business.
- 2). Visit your county clerk's office to obtain the necessary business permits. You can operate under your own legal name or a fictitious name. Include the word "janitorial" or a similar word in your business name to indicate what kind of service you provide.
- 3). Obtain insurance for your business, particularly liability insurance. This protects you if your business causes any injury or damages someone's property. Shop around and compare several offers before choosing one.
- 4). Purchase the business essentials. Buy the supplies and equipment you need for your janitorial business. These include mops, sponges, brooms, disinfectants, dusting cloths, scrub brushes, carpet cleaners, buckets, rubber gloves, floor buffers and extension rods. You can usually pick up these items at thrift stores, wholesale or discount stores. You can also look online for great deals on cleaning supplies and equipment.
- 5). Create a contract that you will provide to clients. Clearly state the different types of services that you provide and how much you charge for them. Also clearly state the services that are not included and the parameters regarding access to the premises.
- 6). Promote your janitorial service. Advertise everywhere you can. Run advertisements in telephone directories, newspapers and on the Internet. Print and distribute fliers to businesses, banks, hospitals, schools, malls and other establishments that may need your services. You can also advertise online, often for free.
- 7). Hire assistants once you start getting a lot of clients. Don't turn down jobs simply because you're too busy; it makes more financial sense to hire assistants to help you grow your janitorial business.
Source...