Start a tile and grout cleaning business

Homeowners, landlords, letting agents and end of tenancy cleaners who want a better finish than normal mopping.

Priced per room or per square metre, with extra charges for sealing, grout colouring and heavily soiled floors. Repeat work comes from landlords and agents.

• Knowing different tile types and which products suit them
• Careful, patient physical work
• Clear quotes and friendly customer service

• Public liability insurance, and check whether your policy covers damage to floors
• Natural stone such as marble can be damaged by acidic products, so test first and check the tile type
• Check how to store and dispose of cleaning chemicals and dirty wastewater safely
• Check you have a vehicle suitable for carrying equipment and water

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on the machines you buy, the cleaning products you carry, your insurance and whether you already have a suitable vehicle for equipment and water.

Monthly revenue is typically around £600 to £3,500 as an estimate, depending on how many jobs you take, the size of each job and any extras you offer. Time needed is typically at least 8 hours a week to start.

Check you have public liability insurance and whether it covers damage to floors. Natural stone such as marble can be damaged by acidic products, so check the tile type and test first. Also check how to store and dispose of chemicals and wastewater safely.