How Do I Start a Cleaning Business in Florida? A New Owner’s Guide

Starting a cleaning business in Florida is a smart move for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to build a stable and rewarding company. The demand for residential and commercial cleaning services remains strong throughout the state, fueled by growing populations, busy lifestyles, and an ongoing focus on health and hygiene. If you’re considering launching your own cleaning business, this guide will walk you through the important steps to get started with confidence.

Research and Planning

Before you take action, it’s important to plan thoughtfully. Identify the types of cleaning services you want to offer: residential, commercial, specialty cleaning (like post-construction or move-in/move-out services), or even eco-friendly cleaning. Florida’s diverse economy gives you many options, but niching down early can help you stand out.

Next, research your target market. Look into the demographics of the areas you want to serve. Are you focusing on busy families in suburban neighborhoods, vacation rental owners in tourist areas, or corporate offices in business districts? Understanding who your ideal clients are will help you design your services and marketing efforts more effectively.

Writing a business plan is a crucial part of this early phase. Your business plan should outline your services, pricing structure, startup costs, marketing strategies, and growth goals. This document will guide your decisions and can also be useful if you ever seek financing.

Legal and Administrative Setup

Florida requires businesses to meet specific legal standards. Begin by choosing a business name that is easy to remember and reflects your services. After selecting a name, register your business with the Florida Division of Corporations. Most cleaning businesses operate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) because it protects your personal assets while offering tax flexibility.

You’ll also need to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, even if you don’t plan on hiring employees right away. An EIN is necessary for opening a business bank account and filing taxes.

Check if you need any local licenses or permits. Requirements can vary by county and city, so it’s smart to contact your local business office. Some areas require a general business license or an occupational license to legally provide cleaning services.

Insurance is another must-have. General liability insurance protects you in case of property damage or accidents while on the job. If you plan to hire employees, workers’ compensation insurance is required by Florida law.

Building Your Brand and Services

A strong brand will help you win trust and loyalty. Design a professional logo, create a basic website, and set up profiles on key social media platforms. Your website should highlight your services, service areas, pricing (if possible), and easy ways for customers to contact you.

When developing your service menu, consider offering different packages to meet varied customer needs. For instance, a “basic clean,” “deep clean,” and “recurring service” options can give clients more flexibility. Many successful Florida cleaning businesses have added eco-friendly options to meet the growing demand for green living solutions.

This is one of the reasons BlueJay Cleaning offers a turnkey “business in a box” model for new owners. We not only help franchisees hit the ground running with a ready-made brand and systems, but we also emphasize eco-friendly practices and community involvement — two factors that Florida residents value.

Pricing Your Services

Setting the right prices is key to staying competitive while making a profit. Start by calculating your costs: supplies, equipment, transportation, insurance, licensing fees, and marketing expenses. Then, research what other cleaning companies in your area are charging.

Hourly rates for residential cleaning in Florida typically range from $25 to $50 per hour, while commercial cleaning services may be charged per square foot. It’s a good idea to offer free consultations so you can provide customized quotes based on the size of the property and specific client needs.

Transparent, fair pricing builds trust with customers. Avoid underpricing just to win business — it can make it hard to grow sustainably. Instead, highlight the value you offer through quality, reliability, and customer care.

Getting the Right Supplies and Equipment

Investing in professional-grade cleaning supplies and equipment will help you deliver excellent results efficiently. Your basic starter kit should include:

• Vacuum cleaner (preferably with HEPA filters)
• Mop and bucket
• Microfiber cloths
• Eco-friendly cleaning solutions
• Protective gloves
• Disinfectants
• Glass cleaner
• Specialized tools for different surfaces (tile, hardwood, upholstery)

If you decide to go the green cleaning route, make sure your supplies meet environmental standards. Many Florida customers prefer cleaning services that use non-toxic and biodegradable products.

Another benefit of joining a brand like BlueJay Cleaning is that we streamline access to approved supplies and offer ongoing training to keep owners updated on best practices.

Marketing and Customer Acquisition

Effective marketing can make or break a new cleaning business. Start by building a strong local presence. Create a Google Business Profile and list your services on local directories. Encourage early customers to leave positive reviews online — referrals and testimonials are incredibly powerful in the cleaning industry.

Social media is another important tool. Share before-and-after photos, cleaning tips, and special offers to engage with your audience. Consider partnering with local realtors, property managers, and businesses to offer your services for move-in/move-out cleanings or office maintenance.

Offering promotions, like a discount on the first cleaning or a loyalty program for repeat customers, can also help you build momentum in the early months.

Hiring and Training Staff

Once your business grows beyond what you can handle alone, hiring trustworthy staff becomes essential. Look for candidates who are detail-oriented, punctual, and professional. Conduct background checks and provide clear training on your cleaning standards and customer service expectations.

Written checklists for each type of job help maintain quality control and consistency. Regular staff meetings and refresher training sessions will also keep your team motivated and aligned with your business goals.

Staying Compliant and Growing Over Time

Florida requires businesses to renew certain licenses and permits annually. Stay on top of deadlines and maintain good records to avoid any disruptions.

Tracking your business performance is key to smart growth. Use simple accounting software to monitor your finances. Pay attention to which services and marketing methods are bringing the best returns.

As your client base expands, you might want to add additional services like carpet cleaning, pressure washing, or organizing services. Expanding thoughtfully allows you to meet more of your customers’ needs without overextending your resources.

Finally, if you’re aiming for faster growth with built-in support, consider franchise opportunities. With BlueJay Cleaning’s proven model, you can leverage branding, training, and marketing systems that help eliminate much of the guesswork — giving you more time to focus on building strong customer relationships.

Starting a cleaning business in Florida can be one of the most rewarding steps toward independence and success. With careful planning, smart investments, and a focus on quality service, you can build a business that not only supports your goals but also makes a positive impact in your community.