Start a Cleaning Business in Ohio in 7 Steps

A residential cleaning business is a great way to become a business owner. According to research from Jobber, residential cleaning industry trends show 20% growth year over year, with 80% of households being expected to use house cleaning services by 2024. An aging population and increased household income are driving the need for residential cleaning.

At Two Maids®, we offer residential cleaning franchises in Ohio, and you may find it is an easier and more secure way to get your cleaning business established. First, here's a look at the key steps to start a cleaning business.

Checklist to Start a Cleaning Business in Ohio

The Ohio Government Secretary of State has a list of steps you will need to follow to start a cleaning business in Ohio. Below is a quick synopsis:

1. Establish your business entity: How you intend to operate the business will dictate the type of business entity to establish. This will be an LLC, S-Corp, or other legally formed business.
2. Choose a business name: Ensure your business name is not already being used or is trademarked. Use an Ohio business name search to check your business name.
3. Register with the Ohio Secretary of State: You need to complete the registration from or call 1-877-SOS-FILE to register your business.
4. Register for an EIN: Obtain a federal Employee Identification Number through the IRS.
5. Open a bank account: You will need your EIN to open a business bank account. This will also be necessary for paying your business expenses.
6. Taxes: Register with the Ohio Department of Taxation.
7. Worker's compensation: Apply for workers compensation coverage.
8. Licensing: Apply for a vendor's license which is your cleaning business license in Ohio.

You may also need a municipal business license or permit, depending on where you are located in Ohio so be sure to check with your county.

Additional Resources to Start a Cleaning Business in Ohio

To ensure your business is well thought-out and you have a strategy to attract customers, you will need to write a business plan. If you plan to obtain financing for your business, a business plan will be required. Even if you plan to self-finance, having a document to guide your startup in business is a good plan to keep you on track in the critical starting days.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers a business plan guide you can reference.

Business Made Easier with Two Maids

Two Maids is a residential house cleaning franchise. By joining our franchise, we guide you through the startup tasks and registrations necessary to start your business.

Working with Two Maids, your estimated initial investment of $93,440 to $149,890 will cover the following:

• Franchise fee and territory fee
• Location lease, utility deposit, security deposit, and signage
• Leasehold improvements, fixtures, and equipment
• Software programs, phone, and internet service
• Uniforms and startup inventory
• Business licenses and insurance
• Legal and accounting fees to establish your business
• Initial training for the owner plus on additional employee
• Local advertising
• Three months of additional funds

These are fees you’ll incur when starting your business independently as well, but with our franchise model, we package these expenses so you can be sure everything you need is covered. We can also work with you to convert your established cleaning business to a Two Maids franchise. All Two Maids franchisees get their own protected franchise territory where you can grow your business without competition from other franchisees.

Contact Us to Get Started

A residential cleaning business is a great way to get established as an entrepreneur and build the lifestyle you want in owning your own business. Inquire with us and get connected to a member of our franchise development team who can walk you through the steps of launching your Two Maids business.