Garage, basement and attic cleaning

NOTE: Before you start your business, you should read the page on this website entitled “things to think about before you get started.” After you have taken the preliminary steps for starting any business, you can take the specific steps outlined below.

Many homeowners have garages, basements and attics that are crowded with clutter they’ve collected over years, or even decades. So, many people would be thankful and willing to pay you to rescue them from clutter.

PROS:
— No specialized skills required
— No expensive equipment required

CONS:
— It’s not a glamorous job. After all, you’re often dealing with dirt, dust, etc.
— Likely includes at least some lifting of heavier items

How to Get Started:

Your cleaning business can start close to your home. Offer your cleaning services to friends, family and neighbors.

When it comes to equipment, you can start with basic cleaning tools including brooms, mops, and trash bags. But you also want to consider getting some other items if you will be running this business for a longer amount of time. This can include a hand truck and/or a dolly to move large items; and personal protective gear, such as gloves, dust masks and goggles.

How Much to Charge:

An hourly rate of $25 to $30 is competitive in the garage/basement/attic cleaning business, where some professional cleaners charge hundreds of dollars per cleaning project.

Taking it to the next level:

Ready to upgrade your cleaning business? Here are some tips.

You have several choices for marketing your cleaning services.

• Try Craigslist, as well as other online sites.
• Pass out some fliers in your area promoting your services.
• Don’t forget to talk. Tell everyone you know on the fact that you clean garages, basements and/or attics. Ask for their help in finding some work.