Starting Your Own Cleaning Business: How Much to Charge (UK)

If you are starting your own cleaning journey in the UK, one of the most important questions is: how much should you charge? Whether you want to start a cleaning business from scratch or you are already a business owner looking to refine your prices, setting your rates the right way can make the difference between a successful cleaning business and one that struggles.

This guide is a guide to starting a cleaning company that will walk you through the UK market, how to set prices, avoid pitfalls, and grow steadily.

Understanding the UK Cleaning Market: Guide to Starting a Cleaning Business and Setting Up a Cleaning Service for House Cleaning

The cleaning industry in the UK is huge. The British Cleaning Council reports that the cleaning industry employs hundreds of thousands of people, and the demand keeps growing.

Regional demand and competition

When you start a cleaning company in London, you will likely face much higher competition and demand than in smaller towns. In the capital, cleaning companies may charge more because of higher costs and the fast pace of life. In other regions, prices may be lower, but there can still be strong demand for domestic cleaning, commercial cleaning, and specialist cleaning.

When setting prices for your cleaning business, check what other cleaning business owners in your area are charging per hour or per job. This is part of your business and marketing research.

Differences between domestic and commercial pricing

Domestic cleaning service pricing is usually lower than commercial cleaning service pricing because the type of work is different. Residential cleaning often means regular house cleaning or a deep clean of specific areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Commercial cleaning involves cleaning offices, shops, or warehouses and may need more cleaning equipment, cleaning chemicals, and even specialised cleaning methods.

Specialist cleaning services like window cleaning, carpet cleaning, or oven cleaning often command higher rates. If you’re offering specialist cleaning services, you’ll need to factor in the extra cost of cleaning products and equipment and any extra training or qualifications.

Factors That Influence Your Rates

When setting up your rates, think about the following:

Location

Your location has a big impact on what you can charge. A cleaning company in the UK based in London might charge £20–£30 per hour, while a domestic cleaning business in a rural area might charge £12–£18.

Type of cleaning service offered

The type of cleaning service you offer changes your rates. House cleaning services and end of tenancy cleaning have different price points. Different types of cleaning – from specialist cleaning service to commercial or specialist cleaning business – need different pricing strategies.

Experience and qualifications

If you have years of experience or training from the British Cleaning Council, you can justify higher rates. Customers may pay more to a business owner who can prove they know the understanding of cleaning techniques and can guarantee quality.

Pricing Models Used in the UK

Hourly vs. per-job rates

Many cleaning businesses charge per hour, especially for ongoing domestic cleaning or house cleaning work. This is easy for clients to understand and for you to track.

Per-job rates are more common for deep clean, end of tenancy cleaning, or specialised cleaning businesses. You estimate the total cost for the type of cleaning business you’re doing, whether it’s commercial cleaning or specialist cleaning.

Flat fees vs. tiered pricing

Flat fees mean you charge the same amount for the same job every time, while tiered pricing changes based on the type of cleaning or the frequency of cleaning. For example, you might charge less for weekly domestic cleaning service than for a one-off deep clean.

Calculating Your Own Rate Step-by-Step: Cost to Start a Cleaning Company, Creating a Business Plan, and Running Your Cleaning Business

If you want to set up a successful cleaning company, follow these steps:

Estimating time and materials

Work out how long the job will take and how much cleaning products, cleaning supplies, and cleaning equipment will cost. If you need specialist cleaning tools like carpet machines or pressure washers, include these costs too.

Adding profit margins

Once you know your costs, add a profit margin. This ensures your cleaning business can grow. Think about how much you want to earn per hour after covering costs.

Factoring in travel and admin costs

When running your business, remember the extra time you spend travelling to jobs, doing admin, buying cleaning chemicals, or preparing a business plan. If you are setting up a cleaning business as a limited company, factor in accountancy costs and business insurance for cleaners.

Common Pitfalls When Setting Prices

Undercutting too much

When you start your business, it’s tempting to charge less than everyone else. But if you undercut too much, you may not make enough to cover costs. This can stop you from being able to grow your business or run a cleaning business successfully.

Overestimating market value

On the other hand, if you set your prices too high without the experience or customer base to back them up, you may struggle to get clients. This is why creating a business plan and doing proper research before starting a business is essential.

Example Rate Ranges Across the UK

London vs. other regions

In London, domestic cleaning rates often range from £20–£30 per hour. Outside London, you may see rates closer to £12–£18. Commercial cleaning may be £15–£25 per hour in London and £10–£20 in other areas.

Specialist cleaning services

Specialised cleaning businesses like carpet cleaning may charge £50–£100 for a full job. Oven cleaning can range from £40–£80 depending on size. Window cleaning may be charged per window or per visit, often £30–£60 for a small home. If you want to get a cleaning contract for commercial cleaning service, you may quote monthly rather than per hour.

Adjusting Your Rates Over Time

Inflation and demand trends

If you want to ensure your cleaning business remains profitable, raise prices when costs rise. Keep an eye on the cleaning industry news from the British Cleaning Council or other trade bodies to spot trends.

Seasonal adjustments

Demand for house cleaning services and end of tenancy cleaning often peaks in spring and summer. Use this to your advantage by adjusting rates slightly or adding premium services like specialist cleaning or offering specialist cleaning services.

Conclusion: How to Start a Cleaning Business, Create a Business Plan, and Get Your Cleaning Company Off the Ground

Setting the right price for your cleaning business isn’t just about covering costs. It’s about positioning yourself as a trusted business owner in the cleaning industry. By understanding the UK market, considering your type of cleaning service, avoiding pricing pitfalls, and adjusting your rates with experience, you can set up your business to succeed.

Whether you need to register your business with HMRC, write a creating a business plan, or simply get your business off the ground, the key is to combine fair pricing with excellent service. Use quality cleaning products, invest in the right equipment or cleaning tools, and protect yourself with business insurance.

If you follow this guide on how to start and market your business well, you can get your cleaning business running smoothly. Many new cleaning businesses fail because they don’t plan properly – but with careful pricing, you can ensure your business thrives.

The cost to start a cleaning company can be low, but your time, skills, and reputation are valuable. Price confidently, keep your customers happy, and your new business will grow into a successful cleaning business that you are proud to run.