What to know before considering ownership
Before investing in a franchise, it's important to understand what's expected of you as an owner. At ServiceMaster Clean®, we welcome entrepreneurs who are ready to build a local business with the backing of a nationally recognized cleaning network. While every owner brings different experience to the table, there are a few requirements to consider before moving forward.
1. Be financially prepared for the investment
Opening a ServiceMaster Clean® franchise requires an estimated initial investment of $111,800 to $187,500. This includes the $40,000 initial franchise fee and expenses for equipment and working funds. We also require all owners to have $50,000 in liquid capital and $100,000 minimum net worth. Beyond initial costs, you should also consider your ability to manage ongoing business expenses as you establish your client base. Reviewing your financial position early can help you determine whether you're prepared for the responsibilities that come with ownership.
2. Be ready to complete the required training
You don't have to enter franchising knowing everything about commercial cleaning, but you do need to be willing to learn. Our training program through ServiceMaster University currently includes two weeks of in-person instruction, with online coursework completed beforehand. The program introduces owners to the practices they'll use to manage their franchise. Training helps establish an understanding of our standards so you can make the right decisions when leading your local business.
3. Be prepared to take an active leadership role
Owning a ServiceMaster Clean® franchise means taking responsibility for how your business operates. You'll oversee your team and make decisions that affect daily performance. Our franchise model requires full-time attention to management and operations, either through your direct involvement or a trained manager who supervises the business. For prospective owners, that means being prepared to dedicate time and resources to building a thriving operation.
Explore the next step
Meeting the initial requirements is an important part of deciding if franchise ownership is right for you. The next step is understanding how your experience and financial position align with the opportunity. Connect with our development team to learn what it takes to become a ServiceMaster Clean® owner.