This information is general business guidance and is not legal, tax or financial advice. Requirements can change, so always check the latest information from official sources or a qualified professional.
Business registration Choose a structure and register it with the right body.
Sole traders register with HMRC for Self Assessment. Limited companies are registered with Companies House. GOV.UK explains deadlines and what each structure means for your responsibilities. Tax Keep records and understand which taxes may apply to you.
Income Tax and National Insurance may apply to your profits. Check GOV.UK for current rates and thresholds. VAT registration is required above a turnover threshold that can change — check the current figure. Keep receipts for allowable business expenses. Insurance Public liability cover is widely recommended for cleaners working in other people's homes.
Public liability insurance covers claims for injury or property damage. It's commonly expected by customers and agencies. Employers' liability insurance is an official requirement in most cases once you employ staff — see GOV.UK. Consider cover for equipment, keys, and business use of your vehicle. Speak to an insurer or broker. Health and safety Cleaning chemicals and manual tasks carry risks you should assess.
HSE guidance on COSHH covers working safely with hazardous substances, including many cleaning products. Read product safety data sheets and never mix products unless the manufacturer says it's safe. If you employ people, HSE explains your duties, including risk assessments. Data protection You will hold names, addresses, phone numbers and possibly key codes.
UK GDPR applies to customer personal data. The ICO explains your obligations. Many businesses that process personal data must pay a data protection fee — the ICO has a self-assessment tool. Store key codes and alarm details securely and separately from addresses. Contracts and terms Clear written terms prevent most disputes.
Set out what's included, cancellation notice, payment terms, keys, breakages and complaints. Consumer law gives customers certain rights, including in some cases cancellation rights for contracts agreed away from your premises. Check GOV.UK. DBS considerations Many customers ask whether you've had a background check.
Anyone can apply for a basic DBS check about themselves through GOV.UK. Higher-level checks only apply to specific roles and settings — don't claim one you can't legally hold. Employees or subcontractors Taking on help changes your legal responsibilities.
Employment status (employee, worker or self-employed) is decided by the working arrangement, not just the contract label. GOV.UK covers right-to-work checks, PAYE, workplace pensions and employers' liability insurance. Waste If you remove waste from customers' homes, rules may apply.
Check GOV.UK guidance on business waste before taking rubbish away from jobs. Your progress is saved on this device.
