“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” – Benjamin Franklin

A house cleaning service business plan can help you get a loan. It’s also a roadmap to a successful cleaning company. But — 

There are seven key elements every business plan must have. It’s not hard to write one, but you’ll need to know the answers to some questions before you start.

See how to write a cleaning business plan below, along with tips, advice, and a sample cleaning business plan to get you off on the right foot.

What is a cleaning business plan?

A cleaning business plan is a document that shows why your business should exist, what it will do, how you’ll do it, and who you’ll do it for. It maps out your path to success, including financial projections, a market analysis, your services, and a description of your organizational structure.

Most banks will want to see a business plan before they’ll lend you money. Even if you don’t need a loan, a plan can guide you as you start and scale your business.

Pro Tip: If you’re just looking for the steps to create a successful cleaning company, one of the most important is to set your prices higher than you think. See our article on how to start a cleaning business for more.

The 7 parts of a cleaning business plan

Each cleaning service business plan has seven important parts. The best way to write your own plan is to read this article, then come back with a pen and notebook and jot down your best answers and to-do items. Writing the plan will be a lot easier if you’ve answered all the questions first.

1. Executive summary

Since you haven’t written your house cleaning business plan yet, you’ll skip this part for now. Then when you’ve finished writing the rest, you’ll come back and summarize your plan at the top.

Include:

• Your business name
• Location
• A very brief overview of your services
• Your mission and vision statements (see examples here and here)
• Why you’re writing the plan (for example, to get a loan or to increase your odds of success)

2. Company description

What is your company all about, and how will it be structured? Write about 100 words on:

• Your business structure (LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship)
• The types of consumers you’ll serve
• A complete list of your service offerings (for example, cleaning homes and Airbnbs)
• Your business goals

3. Cleaning services you’ll offer

Re-list your service offerings, and this time, write a short description of each one. Include:

• Benefits to the customer of each service
• Why your services are better than the competition’s

4. Market analysis

This is where you show how much you understand the cleaning industry. Include:

• A list of your different types of customers (like property managers and homeowners)
• How many customers are in your area
• A detailed description of the other cleaning companies near you and their strengths and weaknesses

Pro Tip: Make it easier by introducing yourself to a few cleaning company owners and asking how-to questions. (You can find them by searching “cleaning business owner” on LinkedIn.)

5. Strategy

Describe your sales and marketing plan and how you’ll put it into action, including:

• Your operating hours and locations
• Your service area
• How many employees you’ll have, and where you’ll find them
• How you’ll find and connect with customers
• Your pricing
• Your costs, both fixed and per cleaning
• How the company will function (from getting a new customer to doing a cleaning and invoicing)

6. Leadership

Who’s in charge of your cleaning company, and what are they responsible for? Make:

• A list of your company’s leaders and job descriptions
• Names of the owners, what percent of the business they own, their background, and how much they’ll be involved
• Names and bios of any advisors or mentors who will help, including attorneys or other professionals

7. Financial plan and projections

You’ll most likely need to pay an accountant to help with creating financial projections. Create 3-year projections of:

• P&L statement
• Balance sheet
• Cash flow statement

You can see examples of all three projections below, at the bottom of the cleaning company business plan template below.

Pro Tip: Writer’s block? Tell ChatGPT the answers to the questions above, then ask it to write your plan up for you. Then read and adjust it to fit it to your business goals.

Example cleaning business plan

You can copy, paste, and edit this sample cleaning service business plan template to get started:

1) Executive Summary

Business Name: [Your Business Name]

Owner: [Your Name]

Location: [City, State]

Business Structure: Sole Proprietorship / LLC

Services Offered: Residential Cleaning, Deep Cleaning, Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning, Seasonal Cleaning

Mission Statement: Our mission is to provide high-quality, reliable, and affordable cleaning services that make our clients’ homes healthier and more comfortable.

2) Business Description

A) Company Overview:

[Your Business Name] is a residential cleaning service committed to offering top-tier cleaning solutions to homeowners. We specialize in maintaining a clean, organized, and hygienic living space that enhances the well-being of our clients. Our services cater to a variety of needs, from regular upkeep to deep cleaning sessions.

B) Target Market:

Our primary target market includes busy professionals, families, and elderly individuals who require assistance with maintaining their homes. Our services are also ideal for property managers and real estate agents in need of cleaning services for move-in/move-out or post-renovation scenarios.

C) Unique Selling Proposition (USP):

We stand out by offering personalized cleaning plans tailored to each client’s specific needs. Our commitment to using eco-friendly products and methods sets us apart, ensuring a safe environment for children, pets, and allergy-sensitive individuals.

3) Market Analysis

A) Industry Overview:

The residential cleaning industry is a growing market with increasing demand due to busy lifestyles, dual-income households, and an aging population. The shift towards eco-friendly cleaning solutions is also driving growth.

B) Competitor Analysis:

• Competitor A: Offers basic cleaning services at low prices but lacks personalized service.
• Competitor B: Focuses on high-end clients with premium pricing but limited availability.
• Competitor C: Uses eco-friendly products but charges extra for this service.

C) Market Trends:

• Increasing demand for green cleaning services.
• Growing preference for personalized and flexible cleaning schedules.
• Rising use of online booking platforms for convenience.

D) Target Customer:

• Demographics: Ages 25-65, middle to upper-middle income, homeowners, renters, and property managers.
• Geographic: Residential areas within [City/Region].
• Psychographics: Value convenience, cleanliness, and a healthy living environment.

4) Services Offered

1. Standard Residential Cleaning: Regular cleaning services including dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and bathroom/kitchen cleaning.
2. Deep Cleaning: Comprehensive cleaning, including areas not typically covered in standard cleaning, such as baseboards, inside appliances, and behind furniture.
3. Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning: Specialized cleaning service for homes being prepared for new occupants or post-move-out.
4. Seasonal Cleaning: Deep cleaning services tailored to specific seasonal needs, like spring cleaning or pre-holiday preparation.
5. Customized Cleaning Plans: Tailored cleaning schedules and services based on individual client preferences.

5) Marketing Strategy

A) Branding:

Develop a professional brand image with a clean, modern logo, and a user-friendly website. Emphasize your commitment to eco-friendly products and personalized service.

B) Marketing Channels:

• Online Presence: Develop a website with online booking options, service descriptions, and testimonials. Use SEO strategies to increase visibility.
• Social Media: Engage potential clients on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn with before-and-after photos, cleaning tips, and promotions.
• Local Advertising: Distribute flyers, post ads in local newspapers, and participate in community events.
• Referral Program: Offer discounts or free services for clients who refer new customers.

C) Pricing Strategy:

• Competitive Pricing: Set prices based on market research, offering competitive rates that reflect the quality and value of your services.
• Package Deals: Create cleaning packages for regular clients, offering discounted rates for long-term contracts.

6) Operations Plan

A) Location and Equipment:

• Location: Operate from a home office with a storage area for supplies and equipment.
• Equipment: Invest in high-quality cleaning tools, vacuum cleaners, mops, and eco-friendly cleaning products.

B) Staffing Plan:

• Initial Staffing: Start as a sole proprietor or with a small team. As the business grows, hire part-time cleaners or contract workers.
• Training: Provide thorough training in cleaning techniques, customer service, and safety protocols.

C) Operations Workflow:

1. Client Consultation: Discuss client needs, schedule, and pricing.
2. Service Delivery: Perform the cleaning service based on the agreed plan.
3. Quality Control: Conduct follow-up checks to ensure client satisfaction.
4. Billing and Payment: Use an invoicing system for easy payment processing.

7) Financial Plan

A) Startup Costs:

• Initial Equipment: $2,000
• Supplies (3 months): $500
• Marketing Materials: $1,000
• Website Development: $1,500
• Legal and Licensing Fees: $500
• Total: $5,500

B) Revenue Projections:

• Year 1: $50,000
• Year 2: $75,000
• Year 3: $100,000

C) Break-Even Analysis:

• Monthly Fixed Costs: $2,000
• Variable Costs per Job: $50
• Average Revenue per Job: $150
• Break-Even Point: 14 jobs per month

D)) Funding Requirements:

Seeking $5,500 in startup funding, which will be used to cover initial costs and establish the business.

Appendix

• Legal Documents: Business license, insurance, contracts.
• Sample Cleaning Checklist: Detailed checklist for standard and deep cleaning services.
• Client Testimonials: Positive reviews from early clients to build credibility.

This house cleaning business plan template outlines the key steps and strategies for launching and growing [Your Business Name], positioning it as a trusted and reliable cleaning service provider in [City/Region]. With a focus on quality, customer satisfaction, and eco-friendly practices, we aim to build a loyal client base and achieve sustainable growth.

Cleaning Business P&L Projection
Statements	Year 1 (USD)	Year 2 (USD)	Year 3 (USD)
Revenue
Total Cleaning Jobs	$30,000	$45,000	$60,000
Package Deals/Recurring Clients	$20,000	$30,000	$40,000
Total Revenue	$50,000	$75,000	$100,000
Direct Costs
Cleaning Supplies	$1,500	$2,250	$3,000
Equipment Maintenance/Replacement	$500	$750	$1,000
Transportation (Fuel, Vehicle)	$2,000	$3,000	$4,000
Total Direct Costs	$4,000	$6,000	$8,000
Gross Margin	$46,000	$69,000	$92,000
Gross Margin %	92%	92%	92%
Operating Expenses
Salaries & Wages	$20,000	$30,000	$40,000
Marketing & Advertising	$3,000	$4,000	$5,000
Insurance	$1,200	$1,200	$1,200
Website Hosting/Maintenance	$500	$500	$500
Office Supplies	$300	$400	$500
Utilities (Phone, Internet)	$600	$700	$800
Total Operating Expenses	$25,600	$36,800	$48,000
Operating Income	$20,400	$32,200	$44,000
Interest Incurred	$0	$0	$0
Income Taxes	$4,080	$6,440	$8,800
Total Expenses	$29,680	$43,240	$56,800
Net Profit	$16,320	$25,760	$35,200
Net Profit/Sales	33%	34%	35%

 

Cleaning Business Balance Sheet Projection
	Year 1 (USD)	Year 2 (USD)	Year 3 (USD)
Assets
Current Assets
Cash & Cash Equivalents	$3,000	$8,000	$15,000
Accounts Receivable	$5,000	$7,500	$10,000
Prepaid Expenses	$500	$500	$500
Total Current Assets	$8,500	$16,000	$25,500
Fixed Assets
Equipment (net of depreciation)	$2,000	$2,500	$3,000
Total Fixed Assets	$2,000	$2,500	$3,000
Total Assets	$10,500	$18,500	$28,500
Liabilities & Equity
Current Liabilities
Accounts Payable	$2,000	$3,000	$4,000
Wages Payable	$1,500	$2,000	$2,500
Total Current Liabilities	$3,500	$5,000	$6,500
Long-Term Liabilities
Loan Payable	$0	$0	$0
Total Long-Term Liabilities	$0	$0	$0
Total Liabilities	$3,500	$5,000	$6,500
Equity
Owner’s Equity	$7,000	$13,500	$22,000
Retained Earnings	$0	$0	$0
Total Equity	$7,000	$13,500	$22,000
Total Liabilities & Equity	$10,500	$18,500	$28,500

 

Cleaning Business Cash Flow Projection
Cash Flow Statement	Year 1 (USD)	Year 2 (USD)	Year 3 (USD)
Operating Activities
Net Profit	$16,320	$25,760	$35,200
Adjustments for Non-Cash Items
Depreciation	$500	$500	$500
Changes in Working Capital
Increase in Accounts Receivable	-$5,000	-$2,500	-$2,500
Increase in Prepaid Expenses	-$500	$0	$0
Increase in Accounts Payable	$2,000	$1,000	$1,000
Increase in Wages Payable	$1,500	$500	$500
Net Cash from Operating Activities	$14,820	$25,260	$34,700
Investing Activities
Purchase of Equipment	-$2,000	-$1,000	-$1,000
Net Cash from Investing Activities	-$2,000	-$1,000	-$1,000
Financing Activities
Owner’s Equity Contribution	$7,000	$6,500	$8,500
Repayment of Loans	$0	$0	$0
Net Cash from Financing Activities	$7,000	$6,500	$8,500
Net Increase in Cash & Cash Equivalents	$19,820	$30,760	$42,200
Cash & Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	$0	$19,820	$50,580
Cash & Cash Equivalents at End of Year	$19,820	$50,580	$92,780

Once you’ve used the cleaning business plan template above to start your company, it’s time to grow it fast. Start by breaking up with bad customers. See our article on how to grow a cleaning business for more tips.

Grow your company with cleaning business software

To grow, you need an efficient system to schedule cleanings, plan your routes so you don’t spend all your time driving from place to place, and create fast quotes and invoices. So — 

Use a cleaning business CRM like GorillaDesk to handle it all for you. GorillaDesk is a full-featured field service software tool to trim your workload, tame your schedule, and handle your invoicing.

GorillaDesk is the highest-rated cleaning company software on top review sites like Capterra for good reason. Our exemplary customer service chats with you in three minutes on average, and our interface is legendary for its ease of use and full-featured power. Call for a free demo today.

★★★★★

“Man am I so glad I went with GorillaDesk. Can’t wait to see what this year holds for our company after seeing what the program did for us last year.”

-Tawndra F., Business Owner

Try GorillaDesk Now