How to Start a Cleaning Business (2026 Guide)
Start a residential or commercial cleaning business with low startup costs and high demand. Estimated startup costs: $2,000 - $10,000.
Insurance You'll Need
- ✓ General Liability Insurance — Covers third-party bodily injury and property damage claims against your business
- ✓ Workers' Compensation Insurance — Covers employee injuries and illnesses that occur on the job
- ✓ Surety Bond — Guarantees your business will fulfill contractual obligations to clients
Start a Cleaning Business by State
Getting Started
Opening a cleaning business involves several key steps: choosing a legal structure (most owners choose an LLC), registering your business with the state, obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, and securing adequate insurance coverage. Startup costs for a cleaning business typically range from $2,000 - $10,000, depending on your state's filing fees, equipment needs, and initial marketing expenses.
Each state has different requirements for licensing, registration fees, and insurance minimums. Select your state above to see a detailed breakdown of everything you need to open and operate legally. Our guides include specific filing links, cost estimates, and step-by-step instructions so you can complete the entire process without hiring an attorney.
Ready to form your business entity? Visit our LLC formation hub to compare the top filing services by price, features, and reviews. Already registered? Make sure you have the right business insurance in place before serving your first customer.