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How to Start a Construction Clean Up Business

Building a house is messy work. Drywall and paint get splattered on windows, counters and floors during construction. Saw dust coats every inch of a new home, and outside dust and dirt are blown or tracked into the dwelling. Although a house must be spotless before it can be turned over to a client or Realtor, most contractors do not have the inclination to perform cleanup. You can make money starting your own construction cleanup business.
Obtain cleaning supplies. Buckets, brooms, vacuum cleaners, mops, and razor blades along with a wide variety of chemicals are all on the shopping list. Consider every aspect of the job you will perform and obtain the supplies to do them all. Buying too many supplies is better than running out in the middle of a job. You will look unprofessional if you have to leave several times to pick up materials. Having the necessary supplies makes the project go quickly and smoothly. It allows you to make the most profit in the least amount of time.
Buy a few heavy duty, contractor grade ladders. Having the proper ladders not only gives your company a professional appearance, it helps ensure the safety of your workers.
Buy a reliable truck for your company. Don't skimp on this asset. Hauling trash and leftover construction material from work sites is part of the job and it means extra money. License and insure your truck in the company name and check the license and driving record of anyone who will have access to the vehicle.
Purchase a business license and liability insurance. Visit your local licensing authority to get all of the information on regulations for your area. Buying $500,000 of liability insurance will shield you from most claims. Accidental damage to property belonging to your client or others on the job site could cost you money and even bankrupt you personally if you are not covered. Do not forget to obtain state and federal tax identification numbers for your business.
Find a cell phone or pager plan for your business. Communication is key in any business environment. Staying in touch with your clients and employees will help your business thrive.
Hire skilled, reliable workers. Take applications for the positions you wish to fill. Read the applications, call references and conduct thorough interviews to insure the quality of your employees. Hiring employees with experience means paying slightly higher wages, but these workers will not require the basic training that is necessary with unskilled helpers.
Find clients for your business. Every contractor, subcontractor and Realtor is a potential client. Call, email and visit potential clients and distribute business cards and flyers at local construction trade functions. Spreading your company name is the best way to drum up your first jobs.
Writer
After learning electronics in the U.S. Navy in the 1980s, Danny Donahue spent a lifetime in the construction industry. He has worked with some of the finest construction talent in the Southeastern United States. Donahue has been a freelance writer since 2008, focusing his efforts on his beloved construction projects.