Starting a commercial cleaning business requires fulfilling a handful of legal requirements. One of the most crucial is getting the proper licenses.
Operating without a license puts you and your commercial cleaning business at risk of fines and legal penalties. It also undermines your business’ credibility and professionalism. But more importantly, it can drive away potential customers as well.
That’s why obtaining the necessary licenses is crucial when launching your commercial cleaning business.
But what licenses are needed to start a commercial cleaning business? How to get a commercial cleaning services business license in your area? These are the types of questions we’ll answer in this article. So, let’s dive right in!
Contents
How Do I Get a Commercial Cleaning License?
To start a commercial cleaning business, you need a cleaning company license. The requirements for obtaining a commercial cleaning license vary from area to area. However, there’s a general roadmap to follow when looking to acquire a commercial cleaning license:
- Research Your Local Requirements
The first thing you want to do is to conduct some research. Learn about the local requirements for registering your business and obtaining a commercial cleaning license.
Most states have a dedicated agency for business licensing. Look for their website or contact them directly to learn about the specific licenses and permits required for commercial cleaning businesses in your state.
The local city or clerk’s office can also tell you about all the requirements for licensing.
- Complete Applications & Submit Fees
Once you learn about all the requirements, it’s time to get down to business. Complete all necessary information and submit relevant fees to acquire commercial cleaning licenses.
Make sure you have registered your commercial cleaning business as a separate legal entity. So, when obtaining commercial cleaning licenses, you can get them in the name of the company.
Cleaning Company License: Must-Have Licenses To Operate
While there are different legal licenses to acquire, two core licenses are essential for you to operate as a cleaning company.
- Business License
Also called a Vendor’s License, this permit allows you to collect sales tax on your cleaning services.
Obtaining a business license is usually a straightforward process. You can contact your local county administration office or city hall, fill out an application, and pay a nominal fee.
- DBA License
If you decide to register your commercial cleaning business as a separate legal entity, you must acquire a DBA – Doing Business As – license. This license registers the name of your business and allows you to publicly operate under that name.
- Insurance
Proper insurance will protect your business from financial burdens if someone gets injured (employee or client) or property is damaged while you’re working on a client’s site.
Moreover, you might struggle to find clients if your cleaning company isn’t insured. Most clients ask about the insurance policy of their cleaning business to protect themselves from any future liability.
You must consider the following types of insurance for your commercial cleaning business:
- General Insurance.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance.
- Commercial Auto Insurance.
- Errors and Omissions Insurance.
How To Get an LLC License for a Commercial Cleaning Business?
There’s no such thing as an LLC License. LLC stands for Limited Liability Company, and it is a business structure. Companies/businesses registered as LLCs get certain tax benefits and offer protection from business-related liabilities.
You can structure your commercial cleaning business as an LLC and get it registered with the relevant authorities. This tells your clients and the general public about how your company works.
Again, there’s no way of obtaining an LLC License because it’s not a thing.
Can I Start A Cleaning Business Without A License?
While it is possible to start a cleaning business without a license, it is not recommended. There are many drawbacks and risks associated with operating a commercial cleaning business without proper licensing.
- Fines & Penalties
Operating a business without acquiring relevant licenses can result in fines and legal penalties. Some states might even start legal suits against you or your commercial cleaning business. To avoid such problems, it’s best to obtain relevant licenses and get your business registered with the authorities.
- Credibility and Professionalism
Unlicensed businesses lose credibility, especially in the commercial cleaning industry. Plus, operating without a license projects an unprofessional image of your business. This can drive away potential clients, especially the corporate giants who work with professionals only.
Similarly, most insurance companies won’t provide their services to unlicensed commercial cleaning companies. Factors like these can affect your business greatly.
How To Get A Commercial Cleaning License in Austin, Texas?
If you’re interested in starting a cleaning business in Austin, Texas, here are some resources to check out. These will teach you how to obtain a license for commercial cleaning services in Austin.
- Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts: https://comptroller.texas.gov/ (for Business License).
- City of Austin Business Tax Office: https://www.austintexas.gov/business/taxes (for general business licensing information).
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/ (for industry-specific licensing requirements).
Conclusion
While it is not necessary to obtain necessary licenses for your commercial cleaning business, it is highly recommended. It presents a professional image to your clients and shows your commitment to credibility.
We hope this guide answers all your questions about the licensing requirements of operating a commercial cleaning business. But remember, this is a general guide. It’s best to contact local authorities to find specific requirements for obtaining a commercial cleaning business license to operate in your area.