How To Launch and Grow a Successful Office Cleaning Business in 9 Steps

Office cleaning is one of the most stable service industries. Companies always need clean, safe workspaces, and many want ongoing nightly or weekly contracts—creating plenty of opportunity for consistent, steady income.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to start your own office cleaning business, find your first clients, price your services, and build a strong foundation for long-term growth. We’ll also show you how to streamline your administrative needs so you can invest more time in building your company.

Office cleaning business startup steps

Every great business starts with a detailed plan. Follow these steps to make sure you don’t forget any details.

Step 1: Get office cleaning experience

Unlike many trades, you don’t need to attend trade school or complete an apprenticeship to start an office cleaning business. However, experience in the field will give you a feel for how long tasks actually take, what supplies you’ll need, and how to keep clients happy. You can start by working part-time for a local cleaning company, shadowing an experienced cleaner, or taking on small office or commercial jobs for friends or local businesses.

Note: You’ll likely still need a general business license from your local City or County Clerk’s office. If you plan to service multiple cities, you may need separate licenses in each one. We’ll cover this in more detail in the following sections.

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Step 2: Create an office cleaning business plan

A business plan gives you a clear roadmap for how you’ll start, run, and grow your office cleaning business. You don’t need anything overly formal—just a practical outline of who you’ll serve, what services you’ll offer, how you’ll price them, and what it will take to operate day-to-day.

If you plan to apply for a loan from a bank, credit union, or the Small Business Administration (SBA), you’ll need to present a business plan to the loan officer.

We’ll cover how to get started below. Download our small business plan template to get set up quickly.

Research your market and competitors

Your business plan should include an analysis of your local competitors. Use tools like Google Maps, Yelp, and local business directories to identify office cleaning companies that operate in your area. Then, check their Google Business Profiles and websites to get a more detailed idea of pricing, services, and reviews.

As you’re researching, note any gaps in the market. For example, you might notice that most competitors focus on small offices but few offer after-hours cleaning, or that no one in your area specializes in green-cleaning products. These opportunities can help you position your business in a way that stands out and speaks directly to what local customers are looking for.

Create an office cleaning services list

Next, create a list of all the services you’ll offer. Start with the core tasks most offices need—like dusting, vacuuming, trash removal, bathroom cleaning, and breakroom sanitation. Then decide whether you’ll offer add-on or specialty services, such as window cleaning, floor polishing, carpet shampooing, supply restocking, or deep cleaning.

Many office cleaning businesses offer tiered service packages at different price points. Here’s an example:

Tier/Level of service	Services included	Ideal for	Approx. cost*
Basic/Essential	Basic dusting, trash removal, vacuuming, & general restroom cleaning	Small offices, retail shops, or low-traffic businesses	$250/week
Enhanced/Standard	Basic services + spot cleaning, windows & detailed sanitization	Midsize facilities or businesses that want a deeper clean	$350/week
Elite/Premium	Enhanced services + disinfection, floor care, and high dusting	Medical centers, industrial sites, or high-standard facilities	$600/week

*Pricing is based on current data from commercial cleaning industry reports and aggregated estimates from nationwide service providers. Pricing may vary based on region, frequency, and service mix.

Many office cleaning businesses also offer these common specialty services:

• Post-construction cleanup
• Floor stripping and waxing
• Carpet extraction and shampooing
• Restroom deep sanitization
• Window and glass wall cleaning
• Disinfection and electrostatic spraying

Pro tip: If you offer specialty deep-cleaning services such as floor care or biohazard cleaning, check your state regulations. Some states require specific training or certifications for medical or hazardous cleaning.

Set goals

Setting measurable short- and long-term goals will help you stay focused, track progress, and make smarter decisions as your business grows.

Short-term goals are measured in weeks or months and can include things like:

• Gain your first 10 office clients
• Secure three recurring nightly cleaning contracts
• Reduce average office cleaning time by 5 minutes
• Complete your Google Business Profile
• Launch a feedback and referral system
• Run your first local business ad campaign
• Attend two in-person networking events

Keep your short-term goals in mind when you create your weekly schedule. For example, if your goal is to increase positive reviews, get in the habit of asking for a review after completing jobs for new clients.

Long-term goals build on your short-term accomplishments, but focus more on scaling growth and hitting financial milestones. Good long-term goals to set for your first year include:

• Achieve $150,000 in gross revenue
• Add 20 recurring commercial clients for a total roster of 40
• Maintain a 95% positive review rating on platforms like Google and Angi
• Expand service area to an adjacent commercial district within 12 months
• Hire, train, and retain three full-time cleaners by the end of year one
• Train in medical clinic cleaning and launch the service

Pro tip: Housecall Pro’s Review Management software can automate requests for reviews, building your reputation with almost no extra effort.

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Step 3: Create a budget for your office cleaning business

Start by listing all the equipment and supplies you’ll need on day one, then estimate how often you’ll need to restock items like chemicals, trash liners, and microfiber cloths. Factor in recurring expenses—insurance, fuel, equipment maintenance, software, and marketing—so you aren’t surprised later.

If you’re unsure about costs, call local suppliers or look up pricing online to get real numbers. Build in a small buffer for unexpected expenses; most new businesses underestimate startup costs.

How much does it cost to start an office cleaning company?

Startup costs vary based on your location, the types of commercial facilities you serve, and whether you need big-ticket items like a floor machine or a dedicated vehicle. In most cases, you can expect to spend $2,000–$10,000 to get up and running (not including a vehicle). Most of your initial spend will go toward commercial equipment, cleaning chemicals, insurance, and marketing to reach your first few clients.

Typical estimated startup expenses for an office cleaning business are:

• Equipment and supplies: ($2,000–$5,000)
• Licensing and permits: ($250–$1,000) 
• Insurance and bonding: ($600–$1,500+ per year)
• Marketing and branding: ($500–$2,500+)
• Initial operational expenses (vehicle, janitorial carts, storage containers, nondisposable tools): $2,000–12,000+

Secure funding

Once you know your startup costs, determine how you’ll cover them. Some pros self-fund with savings, but if you don’t have the capital, you may be eligible for funding through these sources:

• SBA loans: The SBA doesn’t provide grants, but it offers loan programs. Because it guarantees a portion of the loan, it may be easier to qualify. You can apply through an SBA-approved lender.
• Business line of credit: Opening a business account at your local credit union may make you a more attractive candidate for a small business loan or line of credit. You can use the credit line as you would a credit card, but interest rates are typically much lower.
• Community development financial institutions (CDFIs): CDFIs are nonprofit lenders that often work with disadvantaged or first-time business owners.

Grants programs are also available to specific demographics, such as:

• Veteran-owned businesses: The Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOC) and other veteran-focused programs can provide support.
• Minority- or women-owned businesses: The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) offers grants and loans to people of color and other minority groups.
• Green businesses: If you plan to use eco-friendly practices or offer green commercial cleaning, look for state-funded or utility-backed sustainability grants.

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Step 4: Register and license your office cleaning business

Before you start taking on clients, your office cleaning business must meet local legal requirements. The licenses and registrations you need depend on your state, county, and city—and costs can vary quite a bit. Many areas only require a general business license, while others may ask for additional permits, especially if you store chemicals or work in regulated facilities.

Review your local rules early to avoid delays. Your city or county clerk, state business portal, and the SBA all provide clear licensing checklists to help you get started.

Choose a business structure

Your business structure affects everything from your taxes to your personal liability. Here are some common options: 

• Sole proprietorship: Cheapest and easiest to register, but offers no protection for your personal assets. If a business client sues the company, your own money is at risk. All profits are declared on your personal taxes.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Protects your personal assets from business lawsuits and offers pass-through taxation (reporting business profits on your own return) to avoid double taxation.
• Partnership: Each partner is liable for the other’s financial actions; if your partner is sued, you’re on the hook too. Be sure to have an ironclad partnership agreement to protect yourself.
• Corporation: A formal legal structure separate from its owners. Best if you know you plan to expand, since it’s the easiest structure to raise capital under.

LLCs and sole proprietorships are popular choices for office cleaning businesses. If you’re unsure which structure is right for you, consult a lawyer or accountant. You can also check out our guide to paying yourself as a business owner to understand how each structure affects payroll and taxes.

Apply for a business license

Though you don’t need a skilled trade license to run an office cleaning business, you’ll still need one or more of the following to operate legally:

• General business license: Contact your Secretary of State or City Clerk for local requirements.
• Home Occupation Permit: Likely required if you use your home as your business address.
• Doing Business As (DBA): If you use a name other than your legal name, you’ll need to register it as a business entity to write checks or accept payments. For example, if you operate under SparkClean Services.
• Employer Identification Number (EIN): You’ll need this federal tax ID if you hire employees or open a business bank account (recommended).

If your service territory includes multiple cities, you may need a license for each. Check with each City Clerk for specific requirements. Generally, you’ll need to:

• Register your business entity (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)
• Submit a license application
• Apply for a use tax permit (if required by your state)

You may also be required to submit the following documentation:

• Social Security Number or EIN
• Business address and contact information
• Business owner contact information
• Description of business activities
• Legal and assumed business name
• Business start date
• Expected annual sales

Pro tip: Store your licenses and insurance information digitally in Housecall Pro for easy access.

Step 5: Get office cleaning business insurance and bonding

Commercial clients typically require proof of insurance. Depending on how large your business is (and whether you have employees), you’ll need:

• General liability insurance for property damage and bodily injury claims. Most office cleaning businesses carry at least $1 million per occurrence.
• Workers’ compensation (required by law in most states if you have employees).
• Commercial auto insurance to cover all vehicles used for work. 
• Surety bonds if your commercial clients require protection against theft (most do).

Work with an insurance broker familiar with janitorial risks to make sure you meet client contract requirements.

Pro tip: Get quotes from multiple insurance providers, and be sure to compare both your annual (or quarterly) premiums and the deductible. Some insurers may offer discounts if you buy all of your insurance coverage types from them.

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Step 6: Invest in office cleaning equipment and supplies

Having the right equipment is crucial to completing jobs. Start with durable, commercial-grade basics that match the size and needs of the offices you plan to serve. As you take on more clients, you can gradually add specialty tools and machines that help you work faster, offer higher-value services, and stay competitive in your market.

Here are some essential office cleaning tools and equipment to get you started:

• Floor care: Commercial vacuums (upright or backpack), floor scrubbers, buffers, carpet cleaning machines.
• General cleaning: Mops and buckets, brooms and dustpans, squeegees.
• Restroom: Toilet bowl brushes, spray bottles, specialized tools for grout and tile.
• Supplies: Commercial-grade cleaning solutions, microfiber cloths (color-coded to prevent cross-contamination), janitorial carts for transport.
• Personal protection equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, aprons.
• Specialty: Steam cleaners and pressure washers for tough buildup; EPA-approved disinfectants, sharps containers, and other regulated supplies if you clean medical offices or handle biohazard waste.

Expect initial equipment and supply costs to start around $2,000 for small offices, with higher costs if you add floor machines, carpet extractors, or transport equipment. To keep costs low, compare prices from local janitorial suppliers and consider buying quality used gear. Leasing larger equipment can also be a smart option until you know what works best for your clients.

Pro tip: Make sure to check manufacturer warranties and replacement-part availability so you’re not stuck with equipment that’s hard or expensive to maintain down the road.

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Step 7: Set your office cleaning prices

Once you know your services and startup costs, it’s time to decide how you’ll charge for your work. You’ll want to price in a way that covers your costs, remains competitive, and reflects your value.

Choose a pricing model

There’s no one “right” way to price office cleaning. What matters is choosing a structure that fits the size of your accounts and the services you provide. Most pros use a mix of the models below:

• Hourly pricing: A simple option for small offices or irregular jobs where the scope may change.
• Flat-rate pricing: Best for routine office cleaning or clearly defined projects, since clients know exactly what to expect each visit.
• Hybrid pricing: Charge a predictable monthly fee for recurring cleaning, then bill extra services (like deep cleans or carpet care) separately. This helps you stay flexible without losing profit.

Set your rates

Your pricing should be grounded in real numbers, not guesses. Follow these steps to build profitable rates every time:

1. Start with your cost to deliver the service: Account for labor, taxes, cleaning supplies, equipment wear, drive time, and admin time.
2. Add a sustainable profit margin: Many office cleaning businesses target 15%–25%, but your ideal margin depends on your financial goals.
3. Check local benchmarks: Look at competitor websites, call for sample quotes, or review pricing patterns online to confirm your rates are in the right ballpark.
4. Adjust for complexity: Jobs that require more skill or risk—like medical office cleaning, high dusting, or floor refinishing—should be priced higher.
5. Factor in visit frequency: More frequent cleanings often justify lower per-visit pricing, since they require less time and reduce how much money you spend on finding new customers.

For detailed steps and competitive price ranges, explore our guide to pricing commercial cleaning jobs.

Pro tip: Housecall Pro’s Job Costing tools can help you calculate rates accurately, ensuring your prices reflect your overhead, time, and desired profit.

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Step 8: Market your office cleaning business

You don’t need a huge marketing budget to land your first contracts, but you do need a professional, visible presence that helps potential clients find and trust you.

We’ll cover the basics below. Check out our in-depth guide to marketing your cleaning business for more ideas and tips.

Design your brand

Your brand is your business’s voice and personality. Choose a name, logo, and colors that communicate professionalism and reliability, then use them consistently on:

• Your website and social media profiles
• Business cards, proposals, and uniforms
• Vehicle wraps or magnets, if you use a dedicated work vehicle

If design isn’t your strength, consider hiring a freelance designer for a basic logo and brand kit you can reuse everywhere.

More resources:

• 750+ Cleaning Company Names (and How to Pick One)
• 70+ Cleaning Company Slogans (and How to Write the Perfect One)

Build an online presence

Your online presence is often the first place potential customers learn about your business. Start with a simple website that highlights your services, service area, contact info, office hours, testimonials, and before-and-after photos. Include a contact form or a visible Request a Quote button so visitors can reach you quickly.

Once your site is live, claim and optimize your Google Business Profile to appear in local search results. Add accurate business details, high-quality photos of your work, and a full list of services. Encourage happy clients to leave Google reviews—consistent, positive feedback boosts your visibility and helps you rank higher when nearby businesses search for office cleaning services.

Social media can also support your reach. Use each platform for what it does best:

• TikTok & Instagram: Short videos and before-and-after transformations
• Facebook: Photos, updates, and cleaning tips
• LinkedIn: Networking with property managers and business owners

You don’t need to post everywhere—just consistently where your ideal clients spend time. Tools like Canva make it easy to create polished, on-brand content even if you’re not a designer.

Pro tip: Use Housecall Pro’s website builder to launch a professional, optimized site quickly—just enter your business details, and we’ll handle the rest.

Use offline marketing strategies

Offline marketing still works extremely well for office cleaning businesses, especially in commercial areas where decision-makers are busy and not always looking online for new vendors. 

• Direct mail: Send introductory postcards or flyers to office parks, medical buildings, and coworking spaces. These materials are easy to keep on a desk and can make a strong impression when designed well.
• Networking: Attend local chamber of commerce events, business meetups, and property management associations. These groups are filled with facility managers and business owners who frequently need cleaning services.
• Referral partnerships: Connect with commercial real estate agents, leasing offices, HVAC companies, and maintenance providers who often know when a tenant or building needs a new cleaning vendor.
• Print materials: Keep brochures or business cards on hand to leave with prospects during walk-throughs or networking events.
• Vehicle wraps: Branded vehicle decals act as a moving billboard, helping potential customers notice and recognize you in your area.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to add QR codes postcards and other print materials so customers can easily book. Housecall Pro can help you manage incoming inquiries so no lead slips through the cracks.

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Step 9: Grow your office cleaning business

Growing your office cleaning business takes planning, effort, and a good handle on your numbers. The key is to scale in stages so you don’t stretch your time, cash flow, or team too thin. Start by looking at what’s working (and what’s not):

• Which services make you the most profit?
• Which clients take the most time or effort?
• Where are you losing money or running into bottlenecks?

After you’ve built a base of recurring customers, expand by adding higher-value services—like carpet extraction, floor care, or high-dusting—or by serving nearby areas where you already have some brand recognition. Review your business plan regularly so your goals and staffing decisions stay aligned with where you’re headed.

Hire and train your cleaning team

If your calendar is consistently full or you’re turning away new business, it’s probably time to bring on extra help. Most office cleaning companies start with part-time evening cleaners, since that’s when most businesses want the work done. When you’re ready to hire:

• Write clear job descriptions so applicants know exactly what the role involves.
• Screen carefully by interviewing, checking references, and confirming any needed certifications.
• Train thoroughly on safety, PPE, chemical handling, equipment use, and your expectations for quality and communication.

Keep developing your team with occasional check-ins, ride-alongs, and refresher training to ensure consistent results as your client list grows.

Build long-term client relationships

Strong client relationships are one of the biggest drivers of long-term success in office cleaning. When customers trust you, they stick around—and refer you to others. Keep those connections strong by:

• Checking in after the first few cleanings
• Sending periodic emails or texts to confirm everything’s on track
• Scheduling quarterly walk-throughs with facility managers to review your work and spot opportunities for additional services

Housecall Pro’s Customer Management tools make it easy to stay organized by automating follow-ups and storing client notes and feedback, so every client feels supported as you grow.

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How Housecall Pro’s office cleaning service software can help

Housecall Pro is an all-in-one platform that helps office cleaning business owners streamline back-office operations, manage jobs, and communicate with clients more efficiently. Busy owners like you can save time, simplify scheduling, and respond quickly to client requests from an easy-to-use mobile app.

Here are some key features from our cleaning software:

• Scheduling and client management: Book appointments, manage recurring janitorial contracts, and send automated reminders.
• Never miss a lead: Get real-time alerts from your website and third-party platforms so you can respond immediately with a quote or walkthrough appointment.
• Pricing and invoicing tools: Use calculators and templates to set rates and send professional invoices with your branding.
• Marketing and client acquisition: Track reviews, automate follow-ups, and manage referral programs through built-in CRM tools.
• Operational efficiency: Process payments, store documents, complete digital forms, and access everything from your mobile device.
• Growth support: Manage employees, contractors, multiple buildings, or multi-location facilities as your commercial cleaning business scales.

Starting a new office cleaning business is a big step—Housecall Pro makes the setup easier. Try it  free for 14 days and keep your operations organized from day one.

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