Thinking of starting a window cleaning business? There are several phases you need to complete to achieve your goal. But the good news is that when you have the right plan and information, things can go smoothly.
So, if you’re wondering how to start a window cleaning business, the answer is that it begins with research and planning. Yet, what else do you need to do, and which tools are required? Our article will make this clear. Discover how to begin your business with the tips, steps, and equipment below.
4 Steps for Starting a Window Cleaning Business
You’ll need to start with a plan and then consider a few steps to start a profitable window washing business. Here’s what you need to do.
Create a Comprehensive Business Plan
When you have a solid business plan, your window cleaning business has the right foundation. The plan will help you determine who your clients will be, which services you want to offer them, the amount you will charge them, and how you will market the business.
This means you will want to include a few elements in the plan, such as your mission and target market, your pricing approach, and your marketing plan. You can additionally set smart goals for the next six months to determine the number of recurring clients you’re aiming for, the number of jobs you want to take on each month, the time you need to hire your first employee, and the specific window cleaning services you’ll offer.
Understand Licensing and Obtain Permits
Since licensing varies from state to state, it’s important to consider how they work. The good thing is that most window cleaners just need a general business licence plus business insurance.
Keep in mind that some cities will expect permits or documentation if you aim to complete commercial or multi-story work. So documentation for rope descent systems might be required.
Create a Budget for the Business
Though most companies in the window cleaning industry don’t require a substantial amount of money upfront, you will need to budget for the equipment, insurance, marketing, and operating expenses.
Many window cleaners pay up to $1,000 on supplies, depending on the brand. For ladders and gear, you may spend up to $500. Marketing may cost up to $1,000, while insurance can cost up to $1,000 per year. It’s worth setting aside funds for this or setting up a business bank account to keep business finances separate, and seeking a small business loan to cover the cost.
Register the Company and Choose a Business Structure
At this stage, you’re almost ready to launch the business, but it’s essential to pick a business structure and ensure it’s legally set up. Check the local guidelines in your state and municipality to register the business and select one of the business structures below:
Sole proprietorship - This is a starting point for you if you have no employees. It’s not expensive and easy to run. But this business structure doesn’t come with personal liability protection.
LLC - Limited Liability Companies are a good choice for you if you also want personal liability protection. It’s easy to set up and handle - easier than a corporation.
Corporation - Corporation business structures work if you want to scale quickly or gain investors. They offer liability protection, but need you to consider and accept compliance requirements.
Partnership - This is an easy option if you have business partners with whom you share profits, liabilities, responsibilities, and more. A clear partnership agreement is therefore important in this context.
With the business structure decided upon, you can think ahead to purchasing the right equipment for your own window cleaning business.
4 Supplies Needed for a Window Cleaning Business
Check the items below to determine which equipment is required for a successful window cleaning business.
1) Window Cleaning Kits
Purchase a window cleaning kit from the cleaning tools category, and you can make light work of the window cleaning process. Our kits make it easy to reach otherwise inaccessible areas that are higher up.
With a window cleaning kit, you can also use microfiber pads to polish the glass after using a microfiber washing pad. You will not need a squeegee when you buy our window cleaning kits, and you will achieve exceptional cleaning results with the tools in the kit.
Ideal for :
2) Squeegees
Buy from our range of squeegees in the janitorial and sanitation category , and you can clean window surfaces with a simple swiping action. Squeegees ensure there are no streaks on the windows after you have wiped them with a cloth and a window cleaning solution.
Some of the best squeegees have rubber blades and handles, which make them easy to grip and will not scratch the surface of the glass of the window. Browse squeegees at BuyDirect to find a vast range of durable, rust-resistant options.
Ideal for :
Relying on a durable, long-lasting tool for window cleaning.
Avoiding streaks on the glass of the windows.
Preventing scratches on the surface as you clean.
3) Extension Poles
Purchase extension poles and combine them with a squeegee to facilitate the window cleaning process and reach the highest point of each window.
When you choose extension poles from BuyDirect, you will find that many feature a comfortable grip, ideal for completing multiple window cleaning jobs. Buy extension poles to also get the right angle when cleaning windows for clients.
Ideal for :
Handling several window cleaning jobs with a comfortable grip.
Getting the right angle for window cleaning work.
Ensuring the squeegee reaches the top of the window.
4) Buckets
Add a bucket to your inventory from the mops and equipment category at BuyDirect, and you will be equipped to dip window cleaning cloths and sponges into your chosen cleaning solution. The buckets we stock are sturdy and have a large capacity for water and window cleaner.
Many feature molded-in graduations and spouts that make accurate measuring a simpler process, and pouring away used liquid a simpler process. It’s ideal for cleaning windows for commercial clients.
Ideal for :
Carrying large amounts of water or window cleaner.
Relying on a sturdy bucket handle to avoid wasting water.
Making it easier to dispose of used water.
Find Window Cleaning Supplies to Start Your Window Cleaning Business
Having the right equipment for your window cleaning business can facilitate your workload and ensure you’re prepared to complete window cleaning jobs for a range of clients. You may be looking to make bulk purchases and save money when buying supplies, and that’s where BuyDirect can help.
We offer free shipping to our Mission customers as well as discounts and deals. We also sell window cleaning supplies at wholesale prices. Ready to start your window cleaning business? Place your order at BuyDirect so you can get started and be your own boss.
FAQs
Discover more about how to start a window cleaning company in these FAQs.
Do You Need a Business License for Window Cleaning?
Absolutely, a business license is needed in most locations. There’s no specific window cleaning license to get started, but a general business license will be needed in most states.
You should check with your local licensing offices and state licensing offices to learn what you’re going to need.
Do You Need Insurance to Be a Window Cleaner?
If you’re in charge of a window cleaning business, it’s important to have insurance that will protect three key things: your customers and their home or premises, as well as your employees.
This is needed to mitigate risks, to gain financial protection, to protect your workers’ medical bills, and more.
What Tools Do Professional Window Cleaners Use?
The tools you’ll need as a professional window cleaner include T-Bars and sleeves, microfiber towels, extension poles, squeegees, pure water systems, and more.
These items make the window cleaning process easier and produce high-grade cleaning results that impress clients.