If you’re looking to start a cleaning business, there’s plenty of opportunities to go around. In fact, the role of professional cleaning specialist is slated to be the fastest growing occupation for the next ten years. Whether you plan to buy an existing franchise cleaning service or go out on your on, there are a few things you need to take care of before you can start accepting clients.

1. Get Licensed and Bonded

Whether you will be the sole cleaner of personal or commercial properties, or whether you plan to hire a team, you absolutely must be licensed and bonded. Your state may or may not require this, but doing so also helps you build confidence with customers. If they know you’ve gone to the effort to get a cleaning license and be bonded, they may feel they can trust you to do the work.

In the event that you don’t provide the services your client paid for, your bond will cover that expense for the client. Consider it peace of mind. Make sure you include your license number on any marketing collateral so that potential customers know you’re covered.

2. Get Insured

Another way to help clients feel comfortable with you working in their homes or offices is by getting liability insurance coverage. Should something get damaged or turn up missing, you won’t have to pay out of pocket. Your insurance will cover it.

3. Protect Your Personal Assets

Because it’s difficult to prove that you or an employee didn’t, for example, steal from a customer, you risk being sued should such a scenario arise. It’s wise to separate your personal assets from your business, which you can do by incorporating or becoming an LLC. Once you have your business as a separate entity, no one can seize your personal assets in case of a lawsuit.

4. Decide on Your Angle

Will you serve commercial, personal or both? Will you offer only eco-friendly cleaning products? How many cleaners will work on a given job? These are all components to consider before launching, as they’ll help position you in the market. If there are plenty of other “eco cleaners” in your area, maybe your special touch is that you also offer home organization. Find a way to stand out from everyone else.

5. Find Quality Employees

The cleaning business is notorious for high turnover, but clients like to have the same people come back to clean their homes or offices. Strive to find employees with experience in the industry who are committed to working for you for years to come. This helps build your brand and helps you connect with customers.