CLEANING PRICING GUIDE
How to price cleaning services without guessing
A step-by-step framework for building repeatable cleaning quotes that cover cost and protect a target profit margin.
1. Define the scope before naming a price
Write down the rooms, surfaces, frequency, add-ons, access conditions, and exclusions. “Standard clean” means different things to different customers. A written scope prevents unpaid extra work.
2. Measure your true labor time
Track arrival, setup, cleaning, inspection, and close-out. Include the time spent traveling between jobs when setting a route minimum. Your first estimates will be rough. Update them after every ten jobs.
3. Add supplies and equipment
Include consumables used on the job and a reserve for equipment repair or replacement. Do not treat a vacuum, mop system, or vehicle as free.
4. Recover overhead
Insurance, software, marketing, phone, administration, taxes, and vehicle costs continue even when the calendar is empty. Apply overhead as a percentage of revenue and review it quarterly.
5. Set your profit target
Profit is not a tip. It pays for risk, slow periods, future equipment, and owner return. Choose a target margin based on your financial plan, then use a calculator to keep quotes consistent.
6. Present a clear quote
State the price, scope, frequency, add-ons, payment terms, cancellation terms, and expiration date. A clean quote reduces disputes and makes the buying decision easier.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to quote house cleaning?
Use a written scope and calculate labor, supplies, travel, overhead, and target profit. Present one job price instead of exposing an uncertain hourly estimate.
How do I raise prices without losing customers?
Give advance notice, explain the value, keep service quality high, and apply changes consistently. Offer a lower-frequency option only when it fits your route economics.
NEXT STEP
Build the business from real numbers.
Use the free calculators first. The starter kit turns the same framework into reusable spreadsheets, checklists, and customer templates.
See the starter kit