The Pros and Cons of a Home Cleaning Business
Tips to Help You Decide if a Cleaning Career is Right for You
Apr 19, 2009
A home cleaning business is an attractive proposition for many would-be entrepreneurs. Not only is there is little start-up cost involved, but it is one of the best examples of how word-of-mouth advertising can work well. Below are some of the pros and cons of starting a professional home cleaning business to help those considering this career for themselves.
Home Cleaning Business Pros
- As stated, there is usually very low start-up cost. Sometimes, prospective clients will even provide their own cleaning products.
- Products bought, mileage, and other expenses can be claimed on taxes.
- Cutting out the middleman. There is the advantage of being paid directly rather than through a maid service.
- Business builds quickly by word-of-mouth, so initial advertising cost is low.
- Depending on the area, this can be a lucrative career even to the point of being able to hire other people.
- Clients usually leave the cleaner alone to do the job.
Home Cleaning Business Cons
- Possible insurance and bonding costs.
- This can be a physically demanding job. Full-time hours might not be possible for health considerations, though this could also be considered an advantage.
- Possible allergies to cleaning products. More natural products can be used, but the client may or may not be agreeable to this.
- Some clients might hover over the cleaner making it stressful to do the job. There may also be children or pets that get in the way.
- Family and friends may expect to be hired for overflow work.
- This is not a good job for those who dislike solitary work.
Other Cleaning Business Considerations
Professional home cleaners are considered self employed. Therefore, the responsibility for paying taxes and filing all appropriate business paperwork is theirs. The benefit of being able to claim business expenses is also theirs however.
One or two clients can quickly become more if they appreciate the work and price. This can be great to build up business, but if bad referrals are made, difficulties may arise if not dealt with delicately. It's best to make it clear that the initial meeting is for the cleaner and prospective client to get to know each other and no expectations of further work are guaranteed.
Whether cleaning is begun as a side business or full-time work, it needs to be approached with a professional attitude to reap the most benefits. People considering the cleaning profession as their entrance into the entrepreneurial world need to assess each of these pros and cons to decide if it's the right career for them.
 |
