How to Start a Cleaning Business in Virginia: Step-by-Step Guide

Business success comes down to a number of factors, some of which are out of your hands. One thing you can control, however, is where you start your business.

Virginia has a business-friendly reputation. The state’s corporate tax rate has remained a flat 6% since 1972 and consistently ranks among the top states for business, coming in at #4 for 2025. Beyond that, the Old Dominion is home to some of the fastest growing metro areas in the nation, including Northern Virginia and Richmond. Providing in-demand cleaning services to Virginia’s busy families could be a prime opportunity for savvy entrepreneurs.

Before you start a cleaning business in Virginia, there are steps you’ll need to follow. Let’s take a closer look.

7 Steps to Start a Cleaning Business in Virginia

1. Register Your Business Entity in Virginia

Wondering how to register a cleaning business in Virginia? The first step is to register with the State Corporation Commission. You will need to provide them with the name of your business, the type of business you plan to open (i.e., a sole proprietorship, a limited liability corporation, or a limited partnership), and the name of a registered agent.

2. Research Cleaning Business Permits and Requirements

While Virginia doesn’t require statewide licensure for cleaning services, you’ll need to obtain a business license. Your locality may have its own permitting or zoning requirements, especially if you plan to operate your business from home. If you’re new to the Commonwealth, keep in mind that all Virginia cities operate independently, rather than as part of a county.

3. Obtain Business Insurance

In order to protect your business and establish trust with customers, you will need business insurance. As a rule, most home services businesses have general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, and commercial property insurance. You’ll also want to obtain a surety bond. For Virginia-specific insurance questions, reach out to the Bureau of Insurance.

4. Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

You’ll get this from the IRS. Use this number when you file your business taxes.

5. Make Hiring Decisions

You’ll need to register your staff with the Virginia Employment Commission. If you plan to have more than two employees, you'll also need to register with the Virginia Worker's Compensation Commission.

Be sure to conduct thorough background checks. When you start a cleaning business in Virginia, your customers are inviting you into their homes and placing their trust in you. Ensuring that your staff is composed of high character individuals is one of the simplest ways to retain that trust.

6. Follow Health and Safety Regulations

If you plan on branching out from residential cleaning and may move into cleaning medical facilities, or other locations where biohazard materials are present, contact the local health department to learn the safety guidelines you'll need to follow. If your cleaning business uses chemicals or processes that could impact the environment, you'll need to contact the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality to learn about any special environmental regulations.

7. Build Your Community Network

Joining local and state professional organizations is a great way to grow your network, increase credibility, and attract new customers. These can include the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, your local business association, or industry-specific groups like the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International (ARCSI).

Why Franchising is Better Than Starting Your Own Business

Starting a business can be overwhelming when you’re trying to navigate state and local regulations, especially if you’re new to the area. That’s why instead of starting a cleaning business in Virginia on your own, you should invest in a low-cost mobile franchise like Two Maids.

Franchising with Two Maids gives you the name recognition you need to stand out in the residential cleaning market. We already have a strong presence in Virginia, and we know what you need to get started in this opportunity-rich state. Two Maids’ proven model and low cleaning business startup costs have made us stand out as one of the top franchises under $100k.

Beginning with our franchise onboarding process, our commitment to you is clear. Two Maids’ robust training, helpful software and systems to improve operational efficiency, and enviable work-life balance give you the tools to grow a business that’s both profitable and fulfilling. Our unique Maid to Shine incentive program makes it easier to attract top-quality staff members and motivate them to perform consistently excellent work. And with backing from Home Franchise Concepts, an industry franchising powerhouse, you’ll benefit from brand power and trust that independent businesses can’t match. It’s clear to see why bringing Two Maids to your Virginia community is a smart investment.

Get Started with Two Maids

To start a cleaning business in Virginia the right way, franchise with Two Maids. Request information today, and one of our franchise advisors will reach out to start a conversation about next steps.