Types of cleaning services you can offer

The professional cleaning industry covers all sorts of different types of cleaning services from house cleaning to carpet cleaning. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, we’re here to talk about the types of cleaning jobs you can take offer.

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Deciding on the right types of cleaning jobs is an important decision to make when running your own cleaning business. Luckily, there’s a lot of different options to choose from.

Perhaps you’re in the early stages of starting your own cleaning business, or maybe you want to make sure that your cleaning business name matches the services you offer? Just keep on reading to go through our list of cleaning services and the responsibilities involved.

House cleaning

House cleaning, sometimes referred to as domestic cleaning, is one of the most common types of cleaning services out there. Basically, you’re being brought into someone’s home to keep everything clean and tidy.

Responsibilities can vary depending on the specific job but here are a few examples of tasks you might take on as a house cleaner:

• Dusting and cleaning surfaces around the house

• Vacuuming and mopping flooring in all the different rooms

• Interior window cleaning

• Sanitising kitchen units and worktops

• Ironing

If you’re interested in finding out more about the earning potential, check out our blog on how much house cleaners make.

It’s also worth mentioning that as a house cleaner you could easily offer other cleaning services such as deep cleaning and curtain cleaning. This will also help to increase your wage and widen your potential customer base.

End of tenancy cleaning

Somewhat similar to deep house cleaning is professional end of tenancy cleaning. However, instead of being hired by homeowners living in the home, you’ll be brought in by a landlord.

Your main responsibility is making sure the property is completely clean before the next tenant moves in. Below are just some of the typical duties involved with end of tenancy cleaning:

• Dusting all surfaces and light fittings

• Vacuuming and mopping all floors

• Removing any obvious limescale staining

• Clearing out and cleaning cupboards, wardrobes, drawers, and large appliances (e.g. fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, etc.)

• Wiping down all surfaces, cupboards, wardrobes, and drawers

Carpet cleaning

Carpet cleaning is more than just a regular vacuum clean, and can be offered to both residential and commercial properties. Whilst it can technically fall under deep house cleaning, most choose to offer it as a separate service or business altogether.

This is because specialist equipment may be required in order to make the carpet seem new again. As part of carpet cleaning, you might offer:

• Steam cleaning

• Carpet repairs

• Stain and odour removal

Reckon carpet cleaning is the way to go? If you’re in the early stages of setting up, take a look at our guide on how to start a carpet cleaning business.

Window cleaning

Window cleaning is always going to be in demand so you’re not going to run short on customers. And if you combine this with a solar panel cleaning business as well, you'll generate even more leads. The only thing to remember is that you’ll be working outside for the most part.

For help getting started, you can read our guide on starting a window cleaning business. Or, if you’re curious about whether it’s profitable or not, our guide on window cleaner salaries should come in handy.

Office cleaning

Office cleaning is a type of commercial cleaning service which will see you cleaning common work areas and bathrooms. To get an idea of what’s involved, here are some typical tasks for office cleaners:

• Taking out any rubbish and recycling from the various areas

• Washing and sanitising toilets, showers, and sinks

• Refilling any soaps, hand towels, and toilet paper

• Wiping mirrors and glass fixtures

• Wiping surfaces, door handles, and light switches

Want to see how it compares to other types of cleaning services from an earning perspective? Our guide on office cleaner salaries breaks down average salaries for a business owner per hour, day, and year.

Pressure washing

Starting a pressure washing business involves using powerful water to remove dirt and ultimately clean surfaces. Below are some of the jobs that pressure washing businesses perform:

• Paint removal

• Driveway cleaning

• Patio cleaning

Think this sounds like a good business idea but have no idea where to start? Not a problem. We’ve got a whole guide on how to start a pressure washing business which talks you through everything you need to know.

Eco-friendly cleaning

Sometimes called green cleaning, eco-friendly cleaning is becoming increasingly popular as people try do their part for the planet.

The main draw of this compared to other types of cleaning services is the fact that you’re using more eco-friendly solutions. So, having this type of cleaning service on offer will ultimately help you stand out from the rest.

Chimney sweeping

If you’re looking for types of cleaning services apart from the obvious, chimney sweeping may be the way to go. It may come as a surprise, but it can certainly be a good idea with less competition than other options.

However, it’s worth noting that you’ll do more than just basic chimney sweeping including:

• Chimney relining

• Chimney repairs

• Fireplace cleaning

• Inspect chimneys and fireplaces

For more information on this type of cleaning job, you can read our in-depth guide on how to start a chimney sweep business.

Build your cleaning business with Checkatrade

Here at Checkatrade, we want to help you build your cleaning business and achieve success. Just check out Elaine’s cleaning business story, and her favourite parts about being a Checkatrade member.

Alternatively, you might already be a member and just not using your membership to its fullest! Whatever the case may be, below are some of the benefits that you can get once you become an official Checkatrade member.

Take advantage of our membership options

We know that not everyone has the same business needs which is why we offer membership options to suit everyone.

Our fixed membership option lets you build the plan that’s perfect for you and your business needs.

With our membership designed to suit your needs, you can budget your marketing spend accordingly, resting in the knowledge of a guaranteed volume of work coming your way.

Exclusive membership discounts

We know that running your own business isn’t cheap. That’s why we’ve got all sorts of exclusive partnerships and discounts with brands like Selco, Fiat, Workwear Giant, and more.

Now you can everything from tools and workwear to insurance and building supplies for less.

We can help you get noticed online

Nowadays, having an online presence is crucial for any type of business. Each month, thousands of potential customers search the Checkatrade website. That’s thousands of business opportunities for you to get noticed.

Being a Checkatrade member means you get a profile page on our website which can lead to you getting more work. Why? Homeowners recognise and trust our tick of approval as they know this means you’ve passed our checks.

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