Which Cleaning Business Licenses Do You Need in the UK?

Starting your own cleaning business is exciting and rewarding. However, there are some important tasks you need to prioritise before you begin operating, for instance, finding out which licenses and permits you need. Not every type of business in the UK needs a business licence, so you must check before you take on your first customer. In this guide, we'll look at the basics of a business licence, who needs one, how to apply and any other permits and licenses you may need to run a successful cleaning business.

What is a business license?

A business licence is a type of permit issued that permits certain business activities. The license may also come with specific requirements for carrying out these business activities. It's typically issued by your local authority. However, for some types of business activities, you may have to apply to a specific government body. The type of business license you may need will depend on the activities you plan to carry out, the industry your business operates in and where your business is based in the UK.

A business licence ensures the health and safety of business owners, employees, customers and the public. They also encourage best practices and keep your business accountable for its actions. In some cases, they can also help businesses stay on track with their finances. If your business requires a licence, it must be in place before it starts operating, or you could face penalties, fines or even closure. However, not all businesses require a license to operate.

The government's online licence finder tool will let you know whether you need a business licence, which one you need and how to apply for it.

Do I need a business license to start a UK cleaning company?

There is no specific business licence that you need to start a commercial cleaning business or offer a domestic cleaning service in the UK. However, there are certain requirements you may need to comply with. For example, register your cleaning business with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and take out the correct insurance to protect your business and employees.

Different types of licenses

There are different types of business licenses that you may need to consider for your cleaning business. However, this will largely depend on where you are in the UK and the nature of your cleaning business. For example:

• Waste carrier license
• Environmental permit
• Vendor licence
• DBA registration

Waste Carrier Licence

Businesses that carry waste on the public highway must have a Waste Carrier Licence. This licence ensures waste is transported and disposed of legally and safely and applies to anyone transporting waste as part of their business. This includes cleaning companies handling and disposing of waste generated by the business.

Environmental permit

Environmental permits require businesses to meet strict conditions to ensure their activities don't harm human health or the environment. If your cleaning business uses or generates hazardous substances or wastes, you may require a permit. For instance, if you use certain chemicals or solvents that emit pollutants, you need a permit to control the release of these pollutants and ensure they're disposed of or recycled safely.

Vendor's License

A vendor's license, more commonly known as a street trading license or a market trader's license, enables a business to sell goods or services in specific public areas legally. It ensures public safety, accountability and fair competition. A cleaning company may need to consider getting a street trading or market trader's license if it plans to sell cleaning equipment or products on the street.

DBA registration

DBA or "Doing Business As" is a business name that’s different from the legal name used to register your business. For example, if your business is registered under your name, DBA allows you to brand your business under a different name. A DBA registration is useful if you want to use a better name for your business or plan to expand, relocate or take the company in a new direction. You may also want it to protect your privacy.

How do I get a business license?

How to get a business license varies depending on the type of license you need and where your business is based within the UK. You will need to decide the type of business license you need for your business, complete and submit an application form and pay a fee. You may also be required to provide supporting documents such as insurance certificates and proof of identity. The relevant authority will then review your application and, if approved, issue a license.

How much does a cleaning business license cost?

The cost of a cleaning business license depends on the type of license or permit you need. Some factors that may affect the cost include:

• Type of license: A business may require several different types of licenses and permits, and the cost will vary depending on the type. For instance, a three-year Waste Carrier License costs around £154.
• Your location: As different councils can charge different fees for processing and issuing licenses, some licenses may cost more or less depending on the area.
• Application fees: Some licenses charge an application fee, which can vary considerably, from just a few pounds up to several hundred pounds.

Start your own cleaning business with Jani-King

Starting your own franchise cleaning business with an established and successful commercial cleaning business like Jani-King couldn't be easier. All you need to do is:

• Get in touch: Let us know if you're interested in starting a cleaning franchise business. We'll send you information on our available franchise opportunities, the costs involved and the support provided.
• Initial meeting: We'll invite you to a meeting with our team where you can find out more about the franchise opportunity and what we expect from our franchisees.
• Franchise agreement: If you're still interested, your next step is to sign the franchise agreement.
• Attend training: You'll be invited to attend training covering operations, marketing and sales and learn about our equipment, products and cleaning processes.
• Launch your business: With the necessary training from Jani-King, you can begin offering your commercial cleaning services to clients.

Jani-King ensures you have everything to help your cleaning business grow and thrive. You'll join our global network of 9,000 franchises benefitting from our 50 years of commercial cleaning experience. We offer a flexible business model, a dedicated local sales team, excellent business development opportunities and ongoing mentoring and guidance. If you're ready to become a cleaning franchise business owner, contact us today.