How to Start a Window Washing Company
If you want to start a window washing company, the first step is to identify potential clients. Landing commercial clients is not an easy task, especially for new businesses. It usually involves several contacts, especially for larger businesses and franchises. Therefore, you need to be comfortable with cold-calling and pitching. Read on for some ideas.
Costs of starting a window-washing business
A window washing business is a great choice for those who want a flexible, low-cost business venture. The initial start-up costs of a window washing business are relatively low, although you will need to pay for insurance and training, as well as hire equipment and supplies. As a window washing business, you can work from home or rent a commercial space.
If you’re looking to hire employees, you’ll need to pay about $25,000 per year. You’ll also need a business license, which can cost $300 or more, depending on the location you choose. Once your business has started, you may also need to join an association, which costs about $250 annually and offers discounts on products and services. Additionally, membership provides access to training, support, and certification programs.
The most expensive part of starting a window cleaning business is the lease. Depending on the location and region, rent for a storefront can be less than $1,000 per month. Other start-up costs include forming a business entity and sorting out copyrights and trademarks.
Insurance is also necessary to protect yourself and your employees from injuries and accidental damage. Window washing insurance is not mandatory, but it’s a good idea to purchase it if you hire employees or use a water-fed pole approach.
Tools and gear needed
One of the most important tools you’ll need to start your window washing business is a bucket. A bucket is a great way to collect water and make a solution for your window washing. You can use this solution to wash a variety of windows, from large panes of glass to smaller ones. Make sure you choose a bucket with a wide enough opening for the T-bar.
Another important tool is a squeegee. This tool works by gliding across the window to remove soap and debris. A classic brass squeegee has a weight that applies pressure to the window. The weight helps provide a clean, firm stroke. However, if you want to save money, you can also get a lighter-weight plastic squeegee. These tools are cheaper and easier to change, and they do the same job as the traditional rubber squeegee.
Other tools you’ll need to set up a window cleaning business include a ladder and extension poles. These tools are necessary if you’re working on high-rise windows. These poles help you work more efficiently, and they also allow you to do more appointments in a day. In addition, some extension poles have removable attachments that are designed to remove fine particles from windows. You can also use them on smaller window cleaning jobs for home customers.
Other tools you’ll need to start your window washing business include a telescoping pole for first-floor windows and a ladder for high-floor windows. Despite the fact that a ladder is essential for window washing, many people are uncomfortable with the height of a ladder. A telescoping pole, which can be adjusted to fit any height, is ideal for those who aren’t used to standing on ladders.
Insurance required
When you start your own window washing company, you must ensure that you have the appropriate types of insurance coverage. This will protect your business from accidents, property damage, and employee injuries. In addition, it will protect you financially from lost income. There are several ways to get insurance coverage for your business, such as joining a crowd-sourced window cleaning company such as Gigly.
It’s a good idea to ask the window washing company to show proof of their insurance policies before signing a contract. This will protect you and other property owners in case something goes wrong. If you are not covered, you can end up being sued for injuries caused by the window washing contractor. You can also check to see whether the window washing company has worker’s compensation insurance to protect you in case of an accident.
While it’s not always possible to insure everything, you can choose to purchase general liability insurance. This type of insurance will cover lawsuits and cover the legal fees of the person who filed the suit. It can also cover the costs of repairing or replacing damaged property. If you hire employees, you can also get workers comp insurance to cover the expenses of their medical treatment.
Depending on your state’s regulations, you may need to purchase workers’ compensation insurance to cover any employees you have. The cost of this insurance varies by state, but it can make a big difference. It may also cover any equipment you use to wash windows. Read next.