Many people want to start a cleaning business but think it is too expensive or too difficult. Starting a cleaning company in Canada is very simple. You don’t need a lot of money or a big office.
You can start with basic tools and a clear plan. To start this business, you also don’t need to hire staff right away. If you’re looking for extra income or a full-time business opportunity, this blog can help.
In this blog, I will explain to you each step clearly. You’ll learn how to select your services, find clients, and obtain the necessary licenses. If you’re ready to begin, this blog will help you understand and follow it easily.
Let’s begin this discussion with a step-by-step process for starting a cleaning company in Canada.
A Step-by-Step Process to Start A Cleaning Company in Canada
You don’t need a lot of money, a fancy office, or a big team to start a cleaning company in Canada. With some basic tools, a plan, and the willingness to work hard, you can start earning and building something that belongs to you.
Let’s learn the step-by-step process to start a cleaning company in Canada:
Step 1:Decide What Type of Cleaning You Want to Offer
The first step is to determine the type of cleaning you want to perform. This helps you stay focused and know exactly who your services are for.
Here are a few common types of cleaning:
- House cleaning: This includes regular or deep cleaning for houses, condos, or apartments.
- Move-in or move-out cleaning: Ideal for renters or landlords who need a property cleaned before a new tenant arrives.
- Office cleaning: Usually done in the evenings when offices are empty.
- After-renovation cleaning: For homes or buildings that have been recently renovated and need a proper cleanup.
- Specialty cleaning: This may include carpet cleaning, window washing, or the use of eco-friendly products.
Start with one or two services that you feel confident offering. You can always add more later after you gain some experience.
Step 2: Think About Who You Want to Work With
Next, decide who your ideal customers will be. This makes it easier to determine where to find them, what to charge, and how to promote your business effectively.
Would you prefer to clean family homes, small offices, or short-term rental properties? When you know who you want to help, it becomes easier to set your prices and reach out to them.
Step 3: Look Around Your Area
Take some time to see what is already available in your neighbourhood. You can search online, check local ads, or review customer feedback.
Look for gaps or problems that you can solve. For example, if people are saying, “The cleaners were late” or “They didn’t clean properly,” then you could focus on always arriving on time and doing a thorough job.
Try to notice what others are missing. That can be your opportunity to do something better.
Step 4: Make a Simple Business Plan
You do not need to write a long or complicated plan. A concise one-page outline is sufficient to help you stay organized. Include things like:
- What services will you offer?
- Who will your customers be?
- How much do you plan to charge?
- What supplies do you need?
- How will you find customers?
Step 5: Choose a Name and Register Your Business
Select a name that is easy to say and easy to remember. Try to keep it short and related to cleaning.
After you choose your name, check if it is available using the NUANS search tool online. Then you can register your business. In most cases, a sole proprietorship is the simplest and most affordable way to begin.
Step 6: Get the Right Licenses or Permits
Depending on where you live, you may need a local business license. Some cities also require special permits, especially if you will be using specific cleaning chemicals. Visit your city or town’s website or call them directly to inquire about what you need.
Step 7: Register for Taxes
If your business earns more than $30,000 in one year, you must register for a GST/HST number through the Canada Revenue Agency. This allows you to charge sales tax on your services.
Even if you are not making that much yet, you should still keep track of what you earn and spend from the beginning. It makes things easier later.
Step 8: Get Insurance for Your Business
Cleaning involves working in other people’s homes or offices. It is essential to have insurance in case something gets damaged or someone gets hurt.
You should consider:
- General liability insurance: This protects you in the event of an accident or property damage during a job.
- Bonding: This helps build trust with customers if something goes missing.
- Insurance for equipment: This is Useful if you are using expensive tools.
Step 9: Buy Your Cleaning Supplies
Start with basic tools. You don’t need the most expensive items when you’re just beginning. Buy only what you need to get started. As your business grows, you can upgrade your equipment or purchase uniforms.
Some essentials include:
- Microfibre cloths
- Mop and bucket
- Broom and dustpan
- Vacuum cleaner
- Scrub brushes
- All-purpose cleaner, disinfectant, and glass cleaner
Step 10: Find Your First Customers
Start small and keep it simple. Offer your services to people you know—friends, family, or neighbours. Ask them for feedback and, if they are happy, see if they will give you a review or recommend you to others.
Even a few good jobs can help you build confidence and create a small portfolio to show new customers. In this business, people talk. If you do a great job, your name will begin to spread naturally through word of mouth.
Step 11: Let People Know About Your Business
You do not need to spend a lot of money to promote your services. If you can afford it, consider building a simple website that showcases your services, contact information, and prices. This makes you look more professional and makes it easier for people to reach out.
Here are some easy ways to start:
- Create a Google Business Profile so people can find you online.
- Make simple pages on Facebook or Instagram and post photos or cleaning tips.
- Print flyers or business cards and leave them at local coffee shops or stores.
- Join local Facebook groups and introduce your services.
- Offer small discounts to people who refer you to new customers.
Step 12: Grow at Your Own Pace
When you begin to get more jobs than you can handle, it may be time to get help. You can start by hiring a friend or someone on a part-time basis.
Teach them how you like things done, and ensure they treat your customers with care and respect. The quality of your service is crucial because it significantly impacts your reputation.
What Licenses Are Needed to Start A Cleaning Business in Canada?
You will need some licenses to start a cleaning business in Canada. Let’s learn about the licenses here:
1. Business License
Every cleaning business needs a basic business license to operate legally. This license confirms to the government that your business is officially registered. The requirements and fees vary depending on your location, but the cost typically ranges from $50 to $200.
How to Get It: Check with your city or municipality’s office for local rules. In some places, you can apply online.
2. Doing Business As (DBA) Registration
If you plan to run your cleaning business under a name other than your own, you’ll need to register it. This step ensures that no one else uses your business name.
How to Get It: Visit your local municipal office or online portal to file for a DBA registration. The fee typically ranges from $10 to $100.
3. Sales Tax Permit
If you sell any cleaning products or supplies separately from your service, you’ll need a sales tax permit. This helps you collect and remit sales tax to the relevant government authorities.
How to Get It: Apply for a sales tax permit through your province’s tax authority. The process is simple and usually doesn’t take long.
4. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
If you plan to hire employees, you’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This number helps you with payroll taxes and reporting employee wages.
How to Get It: Apply for an EIN online through the CRA’s website. It’s free and only takes a few minutes.
5. Specialized Licenses (If Needed)
Depending on the type of cleaning you perform, you may require additional licenses. For example, if you clean industrial or commercial spaces, your province might require a specific license.
How to Get It: Check with your local authorities to see if your cleaning services need any special licenses.
6. Insurance
While not a license, insurance is crucial for protecting your business. General liability insurance helps cover damages or accidents that might happen during cleaning jobs.
How to Get It: Contact an insurance provider to discuss the best plan for your business.
End Note
You don’t need much to get your cleaning business going in Canada. Here, you just need a plan, some basic tools, and a good work ethic. Focus on doing a great job and treating your customers well; things will grow from there.
Follow my suggested step-by-step process to begin your cleaning company. Laos, arrange all the required licenses and insurance to start this business journey in Canada.
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