Cleaning Business Startup Costs in Canada (2025 Breakdown + Free Budget Template)
Introduction
If you’re considering starting a cleaning business in 2025, one of the first questions you’re probably asking is: How much does it cost to start a cleaning company in Canada? The good news is that compared to other businesses, a cleaning service requires a relatively low initial investment, making it one of the most affordable and profitable small businesses to start.
However, success depends on knowing your numbers. Without a clear understanding of startup costs, monthly expenses, and hidden fees, it’s easy to run into financial roadblocks. That’s why we’ve created this complete breakdown of cleaning business startup costs in Canada, along with a free Cleaning Business Startup Budget Template you can download and customize for your own company.
One-Time Startup Costs (Canada, 2025)
Before you start cleaning homes or offices, there are several one-time costs to set up your business properly. On average, starting a cleaning business in Canada in 2025 costs between $3,500 and $7,500, depending on the size and scope of your services.
1. Business Registration and Licenses
Cost: $50–$500
Registering your business is the first legal step. Costs vary by province and city. For example, registering in BC might cost $100, while incorporating federally can range up to $500.
2. Insurance and Bonding
Cost: $500–$2,000 annually
Liability insurance protects you if something goes wrong on a job. Many clients—especially commercial contracts—require proof of insurance. Some cities also recommend or require bonding for added trust.
3. Cleaning Supplies and Equipment
Cost: $500–$1,500 (basic kit)
At minimum, you’ll need:
Microfiber cloths
Mop and bucket
Vacuum cleaner
All-purpose and specialty cleaners
Gloves, sponges, and scrub brushes
For specialized services like carpet cleaning or post-construction cleaning, expect higher equipment costs.
4. Branding and Uniforms
Cost: $200–$800
A polished appearance builds trust. Branded shirts, aprons, or hats with your logo make your business look professional.
5. Website and Domain
Cost: $500–$3,000
A modern, mobile-friendly website is no longer optional. With most clients searching online, your website should showcase your services, pricing, and booking options. (This is where River Design helps cleaning businesses stand out and attract clients quickly.)
6. Marketing Materials
Cost: $100–$500
Flyers, business cards, door hangers, and early social media ads can help land your first clients.
7. Vehicle Setup (Optional but Common)
Cost: $500–$5,000
If you need a vehicle for transporting supplies, budget for gas, insurance, and possibly adding decals for brand visibility.
Monthly Operating Expenses
Once your business is launched, you’ll have ongoing expenses. These vary depending on your location, client base, and whether you operate solo or hire a team.
1. Cleaning Supplies
$50–$200/month
Consumables like detergents, disinfectants, and gloves need replenishing.
2. Transportation Costs
$150–$500/month
Fuel, insurance, and maintenance if you’re servicing multiple neighborhoods.
3. Software Subscriptions
$30–$100/month
Tools like Jobber, ZenMaid, or QuickBooks help with scheduling, invoicing, and bookkeeping.
4. Marketing and Advertising
$50–$300/month
Social media ads, Google Ads, and local promotions keep your client pipeline full.
5. Phone and Internet
$50–$150/month
A dedicated phone line and reliable internet for client communication and software.
6. Payroll (if hiring)
$1,500–$3,500/month per cleaner
Payroll is your biggest expense once you grow beyond solo operation.
Overlooked or Hidden Costs
When budgeting for your cleaning business, don’t forget about:
Taxes and accounting — bookkeeping software or an accountant can save you headaches.
Legal fees — contracts, liability waivers, or consultation with a lawyer.
Uniform replacements — wear and tear adds up over time.
Gas and mileage — especially if covering multiple service areas.
Sample Cleaning Business Budget in 2025
Here’s an example of what it might cost to start a small residential cleaning business in BC:
One-time startup costs:
Registration & licensing: $250
Insurance: $1,000
Supplies & equipment: $1,200
Website & branding: $1,500
Marketing materials: $300
Total one-time costs: $4,250
Monthly operating expenses:
Supplies: $100
Software: $50
Marketing: $200
Transportation: $300
Phone/internet: $100
Total monthly expenses: $750
If you charge an average of $150 per cleaning job and book 15 jobs per month, that’s $2,250/month revenue. Subtract expenses ($750), and you’re earning $1,500 profit per month as a solo cleaner.
At that pace, you’d recover your one-time startup costs in less than 3 months.
Free Cleaning Business Budget Template (Download)
Want to plug in your own numbers? We’ve created a free Cleaning Business Startup Budget Template for 2025. It includes:
One-time startup costs
Monthly operating expenses
Revenue & breakeven calculator
Editable in Excel or Google Sheets
👉 [Download the free template here] (insert your River Design link)
FAQ: Cleaning Business Startup Costs in Canada
-
Starting solo with basic supplies and no vehicle is the cheapest path. Many new owners launch for under $1,500.
-
Legally, it may not always be required, but most clients expect proof of insurance. It also protects you from liability.
-
Plan for $1,500–$3,500 per month per cleaner, including wages, payroll taxes, and training.
-
Yes. Many small cleaning companies operate from home, using their home address and storing supplies in a garage or closet.
Conclusion
Starting a cleaning business in Canada in 2025 is one of the most cost-effective ways to become your own boss. With startup costs typically between $3,500 and $7,500, it’s a low-barrier business that can turn profitable within months.
By planning carefully and using tools like our free budget template, you’ll know exactly what it takes to launch, manage your expenses, and grow sustainably.
👉 Ready to turn your cleaning business idea into reality? River Design specializes in branding, websites, and marketing strategies that help cleaning companies stand out and book clients fast.
