Clean houses for a few regulars

It is plain work with repeat customers. No one needs to sell you a cleaning business system.

The first month is finding four people who want the same slot every week. Cancellations happen. A cancellation rule, said kindly at the start, saves the relationship.

The household pays per visit or monthly, in advance or on the day. Do not hold a key until you have been paid for a first visit and you are comfortable.

1. Pick two weekdays you will protect.
2. Decide a price for a typical two-bed and what “typical” does not include (ovens, outside windows).
3. Ask people you know who already pay a cleaner, in case they need another day.
4. Do one paid trial before you take a key.

• A household you know that is about to go back to the office.
• A neighbour who has a new baby and will say so if asked, not if hinted at.
• A short, specific post: area, price, days, what is included.

Price by the visit for a described home, not “from £10 an hour” which attracts the wrong brief. Extras — oven, fridge, after a party — are a separate number you say in advance.

Keep a note of every payment and every cost from the first job. In the UK this is usually self-employment; tell HMRC when your income reaches the point they set. In the US it is often self-employment tax, sometimes with quarterly estimates. Other countries have their own registration. This is not tax advice — an hour with an accountant beats any course.

• Companies that charge you for “cleaning leads” often resell the same lead.
• Do not pay for a branded apron starter pack.
• If a client wants you to receive parcels that are not theirs, or to “test” a card, leave.