Hello,
I am 17 years old just coming to the end of the school year (lower sixth) and I am interested in starting up a window cleaning business in my area. I came across the idea online and realised that no one currently offers that service in my area here in Slough, Berkshire as i havent seen any advertising, nor anyone actually doing it as i walk around the area. As the summer is coming up, I would much rather try to establish my own business and keep it running for the foreseeable future rather than work for someone else for £6 an hour for the summer.
Window cleaning is not something that i am particularly interested in, but its something which i have identified as a potential market which is achievable for me.
I came across this website
http://windowcleaningcoach.com/ and have been using it as a reference to get a bigger picture about what this type of thing is all about.
The reasons why i wanted to make a post on this forum are:
1) Does anyone have any recommendations for equipment I will need? From what I understand from the website linked above I need: a squeegee, a scraper, a few microfiber cloths, a t-bar, bucket, long pole and ladder as the bare minimum. What size of ladder is needed for mostly 2 story houses? Would this be suitable?
http://www.screwfix.com/p/lyte-trade-elt325-triple-extension-ladder-8-rungs-max-height-5-22m/197322) I don't have a car or a van and i am unable to drive. Because of this I am planning on only doing this locally where I am able to carry the equipment (i'm a pretty big guy so i think i should be fine to carry it all). Would this be fine for the short term until I am able to get a car or a van?
3) If i have the long pole, would i need a ladder? And the other way round.
4) I was thinking of charging around £15 per hour for my services. Would this be suitable?
5) Is there any tips that you have for me or any precautions because of my age?
In terms of marketing, I think i will be fine as I have a plan for that. I am planning on doing this as much as possible as i will have a lot of free time in the summer.
If there is anything big which i have not talked about please let me know.
Posted this in the FAQ section but was advised to post it here.
Thank you for any responses.