How to Start a Cleaning Business in New York: Everything You Need to Know

Ready to take on a new adventure? Choosing to start a cleaning business in New York is just the thing. New York’s vibrant economy and limitless opportunity make it a uniquely great place to invest, and with access to small business grants and mentorship programs, it’s a supportive environment for hardworking entrepreneurs.

Learn more about how to start a cleaning business in New York – and how Two Maids can help.

A Look at New York Small Businesses

Each year, the Small Business Administration (SBA) breaks down the small business landscape in each state. Here’s the scoop on small businesses in New York for 2025:

• New York is home to 2.4 million small businesses, making up 99.8% of all New York businesses
• 46.6% of New York workers, or 3.9 million people, are small business employees
• Small businesses accounted for 42.4% of New York's job growth in 2024
• Women own almost 40% of the small businesses in New York

Should I Start a Cleaning Business in New York?

The short answer: yes! Cleaning businesses have long been popular investments, and it’s no wonder why: they meet a universal need. You can see this in the industry’s growth, with the global cleaning services market value currently estimated at $415.93 billion and a compound annual growth rate of 6.9% expected through 2030. Cleaning businesses are easy to start, have low startup costs and overhead, and don’t require much in the way of staff or equipment.

Take a closer look at the steps to start a cleaning business in New York.

1. Create a Business Plan

Your cleaning business plan should outline your services, target market, and pricing. If you offer residential cleaning services, what additional revenue streams will you offer to boost profits? Analyze your competition in the state to set your financial projects and goals.

2. Register Your Business

First, you’ll need to choose your business structure: either a limited liability company (LLC) or sole proprietorship. Sole proprietors aren’t required to register, but if you choose to open an LLC, you’ll file in your county or with the Department of State. You’ll also need to file a DBA with the New York Secretary of State if your business has a different name than your legal name.

3. Research and Obtain Licenses

To do business in New York, you need to obtain a business license from the Secretary of State, as well as a Certificate of Authority to collect sales taxes.

You aren’t required to have a cleaning business license in New York State, but your locality might have different requirements. Check with your city or county to be sure that you are in compliance.

4. Obtain Business Insurance

New York cleaning service regulations don’t require you to have business insurance, but it’s always a good idea to protect yourself, your employees, and your customers. As a rule of thumb, most cleaning business owners in New York will have general liability insurance, commercial liability insurance, workers compensation insurance, and commercial property insurance. You may also want to get a surety bond. If you have more insurance-specific questions, reach out to the NYS Department of Financial Services.

5. Get an Employee Identification Number (EIN)

You’ll need this number to file your business taxes. EINs can be obtained online through the IRS.

6. Develop Your Community Network

There’s no end to the benefits of maintaining a robust professional network. Joining state and local professional organizations can help you increase your credibility, attract new customers, and learn from your peers in the business community. Explore your opportunities with the Business Council, industry-specific groups like ISSA Residential, or your local business association.

7. Get Ready to Open

Although opening a cleaning business is not as complex as other business opportunities, you still have quite a lot of work to do. You’ll need to hire cleaners, purchase equipment and supplies, launch your marketing strategy, and set up your home office.

Cleaning Franchise Opportunities in New York

Rather than navigating state and local regulations on your own, invest in a proven cleaning franchise like Two Maids. As a Two Maids franchisee, you’ll have the turnkey model, outstanding support, and stellar name recognition you need to stand out in New York’s competitive market. We’re one of the top franchises under $100k, and it’s because our systems meet the needs of franchise owners and customers alike.

Two Maids’ franchise success stories make our commitment to you clear. From the moment you onboard, Two Maids gives you the resources to grow a business that’s not only successful, but that gives back to your community. Thanks to our Maid to Shine incentive program, Two Maids owners have an easier time attracting outstanding cleaners and motivating them to perform at their best. And because of our relationship with Home Franchise Concepts, the leader in home services franchising, we have brand power and trust that set us apart in any territory. There couldn’t be a better way to start a cleaning business in New York.

Start Your Two Maids Journey

Ready to join the best cleaning franchise opportunity in New York? Inquire now, and one of our franchise advisors will reach out to start a conversation.