Start a cistern and rainwater tank cleaning business

Rural homeowners on cistern or hauled water, homes with rainwater systems, farms and ranches, and small campgrounds or rental properties.

A flat price per tank based on size and condition, with add-ons for sediment removal, inspection photos and yearly repeat service plans.

• Comfortable with dirty, physical work
• Careful with chemicals and safety rules
• Reliable and good at explaining the work to customers

• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire anyone
• Entering a tank can count as confined space work, so check OSHA guidance and get training before anyone climbs inside
• Check which disinfectants are suitable for drinking water tanks and how to dispose of wastewater under your county and state rules
• Check whether your state or county requires any registration for work on drinking water storage
• Check your city or county for a local business license

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on the pump, wet vacuum, pressure washer and safety gear you buy, plus insurance. This is an estimate, so get quotes for your own equipment list.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many tanks you clean, your price per tank and how far you travel. These are estimates, not guarantees, and the idea assumes at least about 10 hours a week.

Entering a tank can count as confined space work, so check OSHA guidance and get training first. Check which disinfectants suit drinking water tanks, wastewater disposal rules, any state or county registration, general liability insurance, and your local business license.