Residential gutter cleaning route

Homeowners, especially those with trees near the house, older homeowners and busy families. Property managers and real estate agents can also be steady customers.

Flat price per home based on size and height, with add-ons like downspout unclogging, minor repairs or gutter brightening. Offering a twice-a-year plan brings repeat work.

• Comfortable working at height
• Physical fitness
• Reliable and tidy
• Basic pricing and scheduling

• Ladder falls are a leading risk, so train on safe setup and consider whether you want to do steep or three-story roofs at all
• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire anyone
• Check whether your city or county or state requires a business license, and whether any contractor license applies if you do repairs
• Work is seasonal in many areas, so plan for slower winter months
• Roof and gutter damage claims, so take before and after photos

Estimates suggest startup costs typically run around $400 to $3,000, depending on the equipment you choose and how you set up. Insurance and safety gear are worth including in your budget.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,500, depending on how many homes you serve and how many hours you work. Work is seasonal in many areas, so plan for slower winter months.

Check whether your city, county or state requires a business license, and whether a contractor license applies if you do repairs. Also check general liability insurance, workers' compensation once you hire, and ladder safety training.