How to Start a Cleaning Agency

How to Start a Cleaning Agency

Starting a cleaning agency is one of the most accessible ways to enter the service industry. With relatively low start up costs, flexible hours and strong demand across the UK, it offers a realistic opportunity for self employment and long term growth. Whether you are looking to operate independently or scale into a larger team, a cleaning agency can be a rewarding and profitable business.

The cleaning sector covers a wide range of services including domestic cleaning, office cleaning, end of tenancy cleans, specialist deep cleaning and more. Businesses and households alike depend on reliable, efficient cleaners to maintain hygiene and create welcoming environments. If you are organised, people focused and not afraid of hard work, starting a cleaning agency could be the perfect move.

What a cleaning agency does

A cleaning agency provides cleaning services to clients on a regular or one off basis. This may include cleaning homes, commercial offices, retail spaces, schools or rental properties. Some agencies specialise in particular services, such as after builders cleaning or carpet cleaning, while others offer a broader range of general cleaning work.

The role of the agency is to source clients, provide quotes, schedule work and allocate cleaners to each job. Many agencies employ staff directly, while others work with a network of self employed cleaners. A successful agency must balance quality control, customer service and operational efficiency to meet client expectations.

Why the cleaning industry is in demand

Cleanliness is essential in every environment, and demand for professional cleaning services remains strong. Businesses rely on commercial cleaning to meet health and safety standards, while households increasingly outsource domestic tasks due to busy lifestyles. The rise of short term lets, serviced apartments and shared workspaces has also expanded the market.

The COVID-19 pandemic placed even greater importance on hygiene and cleanliness, and many clients now expect higher standards of sanitisation and disinfection. As a result, there are more opportunities for agencies that offer reliable, thorough and professional cleaning services.

Planning your business

Before launching your agency, it is important to decide what kind of cleaning services you will offer. You may choose to focus on domestic cleaning, commercial cleaning or a mix of both. Domestic work is often more flexible and recurring, while commercial contracts can offer higher value and steady income.

You should also research your local market to understand demand, competition and pricing. Consider who your ideal clients are and how you will reach them. Will you target landlords, estate agents, busy professionals or corporate offices? Defining your niche and building your service offering around it can help you stand out and grow more quickly.

Setting up your business legally and financially

To start a cleaning agency, you will need to register your business with HMRC. You can operate as a sole trader, partnership or limited company depending on your circumstances. A limited company may offer added credibility and liability protection, while a sole trader structure is simpler for those starting small.

You will need a business bank account and a method of tracking invoices, payments and expenses. Even if you are starting from home, good record keeping is essential. As your agency grows, you may wish to invest in accounting software or use the services of a professional accountant.

Insurance is vital. You should arrange public liability insurance to protect against accidental damage or injury, and employer’s liability insurance if you take on staff. You may also need specialist cover if you clean certain environments, such as medical facilities or schools.

Hiring and managing cleaners

Your cleaners are the face of your business, so hiring reliable, professional staff is key to your success. Some agencies hire cleaners as employees, offering regular hours and set wages. Others use self employed cleaners who are paid per job. Whichever model you choose, it is important to have clear contracts, expectations and systems in place.

You will need to provide training, especially around health and safety, cleaning standards and customer service. Uniforms, ID badges and branded equipment can help create a consistent and professional image. Regular communication and supervision will also help maintain standards and retain good staff.

Finding clients and marketing your services

Attracting clients is one of the biggest challenges for any new cleaning agency. You can start by building a simple website, listing your services and making it easy for potential customers to get in touch. Local advertising, social media and online directories are also useful tools.

Word of mouth is powerful in the cleaning industry. Asking satisfied clients for reviews and referrals can help build your reputation. Offering introductory discounts or referral rewards can encourage new customers to try your service.

You should also be prepared to visit clients’ homes or premises to provide quotes and explain your services. This helps build trust and gives you a better understanding of the job before assigning a cleaner.

Managing quality and client expectations

Successful cleaning agencies deliver consistent results and respond quickly to any issues. This means having clear processes in place for scheduling, feedback and handling complaints. Regular check ins with clients, either in person or via phone or email, can help ensure they are happy with the service.

Using job sheets, checklists or mobile apps can help cleaners understand what is expected and keep track of their work. Offering a satisfaction guarantee or regular quality checks shows that you take your work seriously and builds confidence in your service.

Expanding your agency

Once your business is established and running smoothly, you may wish to expand by taking on more clients, hiring additional staff or offering new services. Many agencies grow by winning commercial contracts, partnering with letting agents or offering one off deep cleans alongside regular bookings.

As your team grows, you will need to focus more on management, systems and leadership. Investing in scheduling software, staff training and strong customer relationships can help you scale without losing quality or personal touch.

Some agencies also expand into related areas, such as carpet cleaning, window cleaning or property maintenance. Diversifying your services can help boost income and increase client loyalty.

The rewards and challenges

Starting a cleaning agency offers independence, low start up costs and the chance to build a business with long term value. It can be deeply satisfying to deliver a helpful service that makes a real difference to clients. With the right systems in place, it also offers strong recurring revenue and potential for growth.

However, it is not without challenges. Managing staff, meeting client expectations and responding to last minute changes can be demanding. The work is fast paced and often time sensitive. You must be highly organised, resilient and focused on delivering consistent quality.

With hard work, professionalism and strong customer service, a cleaning agency can become a trusted and profitable local business. Whether starting small or aiming to grow nationwide, the path is open to those who are prepared to put in the effort and deliver outstanding results.