Start a commercial water storage tank cleaning business

Property managers, apartment and office buildings, food producers, farms, campgrounds, schools and small water systems.

A quote per tank on a yearly or twice-yearly service contract, with extra charges for repairs, sediment removal and inspection reports.

• Safety-minded, especially with confined spaces
• Able to write clear quotes and service reports
• Comfortable dealing with property managers and facility staff

• Higher liability risk, so check general liability limits with your insurer, and workers' compensation once you hire
• Confined space entry rules under OSHA and your state, including training, air testing and rescue plans
• Licensing varies by state and locality: check with your state and local health department whether tank cleaning for drinking water needs a specific license or certification. A general business license or registration is usually needed in any case
• Check that cleaning and disinfection products and methods are approved for potable water contact
• Many commercial clients want proof of insurance and references before signing, so allow time to build trust

Startup costs are typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on equipment, safety gear, training and insurance. This is an estimate, so get quotes for your own setup before you plan your budget.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many contracts you win, tank sizes and how often you service them. These are estimates, not guarantees, and the idea assumes at least about 20 hours a week.

Licensing varies by state and locality, so check with your state and local health department whether drinking water tank cleaning needs a specific license or certification. Also check OSHA confined space rules, approved potable-water products, insurance limits, and general business registration.