Skip to main content
Home

Main navigation

  • Why ServiceMaster Clean Toggle submenu
    • About Us
    • Franchise Training & Support
    • Franchisee Testimonials
    • Franchise Leadership
    • Janitorial Industry
  • Franchise Process Toggle submenu
    • Franchise Conversion
  • Franchise Costs & Investment
  • Available Markets
  • FAQs
  • Blog & News
  • Get Started
Commercial Cleaning Business

Commercial Cleaning Business for Sale: What to Know Before You Buy

2023-12-01

Venturing into the world of commercial cleaning can be a lucrative opportunity, especially if you’re considering purchasing a commercial cleaning company for sale. Understanding the dynamics of profitability, operational requirements, and market strategies is crucial in making an informed decision as you explore the opportunities available to you.

Profitability and Revenue of a Commercial Cleaning Business for Sale

Commercial cleaning is a highly sought-after service and essential for many businesses to maintain a standard of cleanliness and sanitary conditions. At ServiceMaster Clean, we service healthcare businesses, office buildings, event centers, government buildings, schools, churches, banks, recreation, shopping centers and more.

The commercial cleaning industry is attractive due to its low overhead and absence of typical operating costs, allowing for quick operation with minimal capital. The profitability of a cleaning business depends significantly on the scale of operations and the local market dynamics. Specialized services, such as industrial cleaning, window cleaning, or carpet cleaning can offer higher returns, but may require additional skills and equipment. In general, cleaning services can prove to be profitable with diligent management and effective marketing strategies. 

While gauging how much a commercial cleaning business will typically make is difficult due to many market variables, the industry itself is seeing definite growth. According to Statista, the market size of the janitorial services industry in the United States was about $90 billion as recently as 2022.

Market Research and Choosing Your Niche

In order to have profit potential, a recent Forbes article advises that whether you’re starting a business from scratch or acquiring a business or franchise, it’s important to have a thorough understanding of your competition, customer base and demand for services. Identifying your target market is critical to success. Commercial cleaning encompasses various niches, from small office cleaning to large industrial sites. Market research helps in understanding local demands and competition , allowing you to tailor your services accordingly. 

If you’ve decided to acquire a commercial cleaning business for sale, or you’re considering a janitorial franchise for sale like ServiceMaster Clean, be sure to study the financials of the current ownership to determine if there is a good profit margin, healthy income potential and a need for services. Look for growth possibilities and your expected ROI. For a franchise, you’ll need to examine the franchise disclosure document (FDD) which outlines operations and financials.

Licensing and Regulation

Before embarking on a commercial cleaning venture, it’s crucial to understand the regulatory landscape. Licensing requirements vary by location, but typically a business license and possibly a cleaning-specific license are required. Research local regulations to ensure compliance. Additionally, you’ll want to consider liability insurance to protect against potential damages that could occur during cleaning operations.

A Few More Considerations

Starting or acquiring a cleaning business usually requires funding for supplies, equipment, insurance, and marketing. Budgeting for these expenses is vital for a sustainable operation. Remember, the cleaning business is scalable; you can start small and expand as revenue increases. Investing in quality supplies and equipment up front can lead to long-term cost savings. 

Client acquisition and retention are the lifeblood of any service-based business. Utilize online platforms and word-of-mouth referrals to build your clientele. Offering exceptional service leads to repeat business and referrals, which are critical for growth. Setting competitive rates, based on local market research, will also help in attracting and retaining customers. If you choose to become part of a franchise like ServiceMaster Clean, our team of experts can help you effectively market your business online. 

As your cleaning business grows, consider diversifying services or targeting larger commercial clients. Online marketing and a strong digital presence can significantly aid in business expansion. Utilize social media and digital platforms to showcase your services and gather customer reviews to enhance your business's credibility.

Consider Franchising with ServiceMaster Clean

If you’re ready to get started in the cleaning business as quickly and efficiently as possible, you can streamline the process through a turnkey franchise opportunity with ServiceMaster Clean. As a franchise owner, you’ll have access to a proven model that is designed to scale. You know all your costs from the get-go, and we provide training, marketing assistance and keep you in the loop with the latest innovations in the commercial cleaning industry. 

Exploring the option of taking on a franchise opportunity with a well-established brand like ServiceMaster Clean can provide you a vital head start with brand recognition, established policies, and operational procedures, while allowing you to leverage a proven business model. We’ve built a trusted name as a leader in the commercial cleaning industry for more than 65 years. As a franchise owner you’ll be part of an essential business with a low initial investment, recurring revenue opportunities, strong training and ongoing support and use of our proprietary products to provide the best service to your customers. 

If you’re ready to get started , we’d like to tell you more. Get in touch today!

Get Started on Your Future in Franchise Ownership Today

Name
Address
Phone
Email
Available Capital Container
*We at ServiceMaster view liquidity generally as an asset or investment can be quickly converted into cash or traded in the market without causing a significant change in its price. Examples of liquid assets include cash, checking or savings accounts, highly traded stocks, government bonds, and money market instruments like CD’s. By clicking submit, you agree that ServiceMaster Clean and/or its franchisees may call, email, and/or send text messages to you, including via automated technology, with marketing content related to franchise ownership. The content of your conversations may be recorded. Data and message rates may apply. Your understand that your information will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Home

ServiceMaster Clean Franchise services provided by independently owned and operated franchises or by a corporate owned branch. Prices and services vary by location.

Footer

  • Why ServiceMaster Clean
  • Franchise Process
  • Franchise Costs & Investment
  • Available Markets
  • FAQs
  • Blog
  • Consumer Site
A ServiceMaster Company

© 2025 All Rights Reserved.

Site Links

  • Accessibility Statement
  • Privacy Policy

Social Media Links

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter