How to Start a Cleaning Franchise

If the steady work and resilience of the janitorial industry are appealing, you may want to seek the support of an established franchise brand rather than going it alone. Here’s a quick look at how to get started:

Step 1: Plan

Many different types of buildings fall under the scope of a commercial cleaning business, from an office building to a manufacturing facility. Knowing your local market and preparing for potential clients is important. Potential franchise partners may appeal more depending on their strengths in your individual market. 

You’ll need to develop a business plan to outline your goals, target market, and financial and marketing strategies. It is important to align these goals with a potential franchise partner based on their reputation, support structure, and business model. 

Step 2: Choosing the Right Franchise

Franchises have vastly different requirements regarding the cost of the initial investment, royalty percentages, territory rights, and support systems. When considering a cleaning franchise, look into who is offering franchises in your area and request more information. 

Step 3: A Legal Agreement

No matter how confident you are in the agreement's terms, always review legal documents with a franchise attorney before signing.

Next, you’ll need to get your own business license and permits to ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local laws regarding your business.

Step 4: Financing

At this point, you should have a solid understanding of the total investment required by your chosen franchise. This includes the initial investment cost, fees, equipment, supplies, and capital. 

Most franchises offer financing options for the initial investment cost. They will accept anything from personal savings to small business (SBA) loans or outside investors. 

Step 5: Training 

A franchise will typically offer both administrative and operational training. Some guidelines, such as specific product usage and branding, will be required. Other aspects of training, like sales and marketing training, may be optional. Some franchises will offer telemarketing services for a royalty. 

You will be expected to meet the franchise’s quality standards, customer service, and operations. 

Step 6: Launch

Secure an office space. For a cleaning business, you will also need somewhere to store equipment. For most small cleaning businesses, as long as you have a garage or shed space for equipment, you can work from home. 

Buy the necessary equipment. You will need specialized equipment if you plan to offer floor or window services, as well as towels, chemicals, mops, and vacuums for regular services. Be sure to have a vehicle that can fit the necessary equipment inside. 

Develop a marketing plan. Purchasing a franchise already gives you access to the brand’s national marketing, but they may not run ads in your area. You will need to plan for ad placements and telemarketing to prospective clients. 

Step 7: Continue to Operate

You’ll need effective systems to manage scheduling, staffing, inventory, and client communications. Some franchises have these systems built out and offer them for use, but some may not. Hiring and training new employees and monitoring performance are necessary to keep clients happy. 

It takes a lot of hard work upfront to start a business. Partnering with a franchise can make that easier and set you up for success in new ventures. Opening for business doesn’t mean your partnership with the franchise ends. Be sure to take advantage of their networking and continued education opportunities to stay ahead of the competition.