Gutter cleaning for shops and flats

Managing agents, housing associations, schools, small businesses, landlords with several properties.

Quoted per building or per visit, often with a yearly or twice-yearly contract. Larger buildings mean bigger jobs, and a second person lets you take on more per day.

• Working safely at height
• Writing clear quotes and risk assessments
• Dealing with property managers
• Planning routes and schedules

• Working at height rules: check current Health and Safety Executive guidance before taking on higher jobs
• Public liability insurance with a suitable level of cover, as commercial clients often ask to see it
• Employer's liability insurance if you take on staff
• Larger clients may want references, method statements and payment terms of 30 days or more, so plan your cash flow
• Check what you need to carry and dispose of debris legally

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on the access gear you choose, such as vacuum poles, ladders or a small access tower, and on your insurance. These are estimates, so price your own kit list before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,500 to £7,000, depending on how many repeat contracts you win, the buildings you cover and the hours you work. The estimate assumes at least about 20 hours a week.

Check current Health and Safety Executive guidance on working at height before taking higher jobs. Also check public liability cover, which commercial clients often ask to see, employer's liability if you hire staff, and how to carry and dispose of debris legally.