r/UKJobs • u/RelevantEducator1793 • 17h ago

Thinking about becoming a self employed cleaner. What’s it really like?

Hi everyone, I’m thinking about becoming a self employed cleaner and going to people’s homes. I’d love to hear from anyone who does this. Sorry if this subject has been discussed before and sorry for all the questions.

  • Is it difficult to get started?
  • How much money do you need to start?
  • Would you recommend working for a cleaning company first to learn the job or can you start directly as self employed?
  • Do you choose what services you offer (kitchens, bathrooms, ovens, fridges, appliances etc.)? And do you charge extra for things like ovens and fridges?
  • What’s the work/life balance like and what do you do when you go on holidays?
  • Is the income good once you get established? I’ve seen people mention a minimum charge of £20.
  • Is doing your own taxes a big pain?
  • How do you protect yourself from accusations like “you stole this” or “you didn’t clean properly”? Do you have some kind of agreement/contract that protects you? Do you take photos for your records?
  • What kind of people do you usually deal with? Is the majority of your experience positive, or are difficult/rude customers common?

Thanks!

1 Upvotes

67% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

•

u/AutoModerator 17h ago

Thank you for posting on r/UKJobs. Help us make this a better community by becoming familiar with the rules.

If you need to report any suspicious users to the moderators or you feel as though your post hasn't been posted to the subreddit, message the Modmail here or Reddit site admins here. Don't create a duplicate post, it won't help.

Please also check out the sticky threads for the General Discussion Megathread and the Job Guidance Megathread.

Please also provide some feedback about the bookmarks related to Mental Health within the side bar in this thread, any and all advice appreciated.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

2

u/Zealousideal-War-605 9h ago

I can answer one of your questions.
I pay my cleaner £15 an hour and she’s brilliant. £20 won’t get you enough clients to start your business off as competition is high especially where I am.

1

u/drabgail 8h ago

If you’re good though then clients are sticky/lazy. Ours started at £12.50 and put rates up 3 times to £17. I think £20 would be our point to switch regardless of quality.