Home cleanout and junk removal service

Families handling an estate or a loved one's move, landlords and property managers, real estate agents getting a house ready to list, and people downsizing.

A flat quote per job based on the volume of items and the time needed, plus disposal fees. Some owners also resell or consign valuable items, or earn a bit from scrap metal.

• Physical fitness and safe lifting
• Sorting and organizing
• Sensitivity with grieving families
• Quoting jobs accurately

• General liability insurance, and commercial auto coverage if you use a truck for work
• Disposal rules for hazardous items like paint, chemicals, electronics and mattresses, which vary by county and state
• Some states or cities may require a waste hauler registration or license, so check with your local authorities
• Heavy lifting injuries; use proper technique and gear, and consider workers' compensation once you hire helpers
• Valuables, documents and personal items in estates; agree in writing what you may keep, sell or dispose of

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on whether you use your own pickup truck or rent one, plus equipment, insurance and marketing. Treat this as an estimate.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on the number and size of jobs, your pricing, disposal costs and the hours you work. These are estimates, not guarantees.

Check what insurance you need, including general liability and commercial auto if you use a truck. Check disposal rules for hazardous items, which vary by county and state, and whether your area requires waste hauler registration or a license.