How do I start a janitorial business?

Question

I have transportation, tools(vacuum cleaner, etc.). My questions are:
1. Do I charge a certain margin i want on top of my employees wages?
2. What does an effecient cleaning schedule consist of?
3. Do I charge hourly, monthly, or yearly?
4. How do i figure the supplies(soaps, cleaners,etc.) into the picture?
5. Do I supply all the toilet paper and garbage bags?
6. What should I be expected to supply and what should I expect to be already supplied by the customer?
7. And last but certainly not least, what were some unexpected surprises, both constructive and unpleasant in running your own business?

Thank you very much, I am very determined and can use all the help I can get!

Answer 1

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* Cleaning Up for a Living: Everything You Need to Know to Become a Successful Building Service Contractor by Don A. Aslett, Mark L. Browning
* Jump Into Janitorial: How To Build A Cleaning Business Netting Over Six Figures A Year by Ron Piscatelli
* Commerical & Residential Cleaning Services: A Resource Guide To Developing And Maintaining Your Own Janitorial Or Home Cleaning Business by Walter Fenix

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!