Starting a business in the Sunshine State is one of the best moves you can make. Florida is growing fast, and every new house or office building has one thing in common: glass. Between the salt air on the coast and the afternoon thunderstorms inland, windows down here don't stay clean for long.
If you're tired of working for someone else and want to get out from behind a desk or away from a boss, window cleaning is a solid path. You don't need a college degree or a bunch of fancy tech skills. You just need a good work ethic, a few tools, and a plan. This guide is that plan.
We’re going to walk through exactly how to get your Florida window-cleaning business off the ground. We’ll cover the costs, the rules, and how to find people who will pay you to make their view look perfect again.
What makes starting a window-cleaning business in Florida different
Florida isn't like other states. The first thing you’ll notice is the sun. It’s great for the beach, but it’s a challenge for window cleaners. In cooler states, you can take your time. In Florida, the sun will dry your cleaning solution onto the glass in seconds, leaving nasty streaks if you aren't fast. You have to learn to work in the shade or move like lightning.
Then there’s the salt. If you’re working anywhere near Miami, Tampa, or Jacksonville, you’re dealing with salt spray from the ocean. That salt sticks to the glass and eats away at the frames. Homeowners near the water aren't just cleaning for looks; they’re cleaning to protect their property. You can charge a bit more for "salt removal" because it takes a little extra elbow grease.
Finally, we have the "Florida afternoon." From June to September, you can almost set your watch by the 3:00 PM rain. This changes how you schedule your day. Most successful Florida cleaners start at sunrise and try to wrap up their outdoor work by early afternoon. It keeps you dry and keeps you from getting heatstroke.
What it costs to start
One of the best things about this business is that it doesn't cost a fortune to start. You don't need a $50,000 truck or a storefront. You can start out of the trunk of your car if you have to. But you do need to handle the legal side first to make sure you’re protected.
In Florida, the first big step is setting up an LLC. This keeps your personal stuff—like your house or your car—safe if the business ever gets into trouble. To file your Articles of Organization with the state (they call the website "Sunbiz"), it costs $125 (source). This is a one-time fee to get started, but remember that Florida requires an annual report every year by May 1st, which costs $138.75 (source).
Next, you’ll need your gear. A professional squeegee, a T-bar (the fuzzy thing that puts the soap on), a bucket, and some good microfiber cloths will run you about $150 to $200 for high-quality stuff. Don't buy the cheap stuff at the big-box stores; it won't last a week in the Florida heat. You’ll also want a decent ladder or a "reach pole" to get to those second-story windows.
Lastly, don't forget insurance. Even if the state doesn't force you to have it, most homeowners will ask. In Florida, General Liability insurance usually costs between $45 and $60 a month. If you’re working in areas that get hit by hurricanes, like the Keys or the Panhandle, some companies might charge 20% to 30% more because the risks are higher, but it’s still very affordable.
Florida-specific regulations you need to know
Florida is pretty friendly to small businesses, but they do have rules. First, let's talk about the "UPL" risk. Florida is very strict about people giving legal advice without a license. This also means you need to be careful with the contracts you sign with big commercial buildings. Before you sign a complex multi-year service contract, it is very wise to have a licensed attorney look it over. Spending a little money on an attorney now can save you a massive headache if a customer tries to get out of paying later.
When it comes to taxes, Florida is great because there is no state income tax. That means you keep more of what you earn. However, you still have to deal with the IRS. You’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The good news is that an EIN is completely free and only takes about five minutes to get on the IRS website.
As for sales tax, Florida generally doesn't charge tax on "service labor" like cleaning windows. But there are weird exceptions for things like pest control or certain types of commercial cleaning. Most of the time, you won’t need to add sales tax to your bill for residential window cleaning, but it’s always smart to double-check the Florida Revenue website just to be sure.
How much window-cleaning pays in Florida, by city
Pricing is where most people get nervous, but the numbers in Florida are actually pretty good. For a basic residential house, many operators charge between $150 and $400 — actual rates vary by market. If the house is huge or the windows are really detailed (like those old-school French panes), that can go up to $700 per job.
If you prefer steady work, you can look at "storefronts." This is where you clean the windows for a local coffee shop or a pizza place every week or two. These jobs pay less per visit—usually $50 to $150—but they give you a guaranteed check every month.
Here is a look at what people are charging in different Florida hubs:
- Miami: Prices are higher here because the cost of living is up. You can easily hit the high end of the $400 range for a standard home.
- Orlando: There are thousands of vacation rentals here. These owners need the windows perfect for every new guest, so you can stay very busy.
- Tampa: A mix of old homes and new condos means you can offer different types of cleaning, like track cleaning and screen washing.
- Jacksonville: Because the city is so spread out, you’ll want to group your jobs by neighborhood so you aren't spending all your money on gas.
- Sarasota: This area has a lot of retirees who take great pride in their homes. They are often your best customers and will pay for a "detailed" clean.
Dealing with Florida's hard water and salt spray
This is the technical part that will make you a pro. In Florida, a lot of people use well water for their sprinklers. That water is full of minerals like calcium and iron. When the sprinklers hit the windows and the sun bakes them, it leaves white, crusty spots that won't come off with regular soap.
To fix this, you’ll need a "hard water stain remover." It’s a mild acid or a polishing paste that breaks down the minerals. Being able to tell a customer, "I can get those sprinkler spots off," is a huge selling point. You can charge an extra $5 to $10 per window just for this service, and the results look like magic.
The salt spray near the coast is another beast. It doesn't just make the glass foggy; it can actually pit the glass over time. When you’re working in places like Naples or West Palm Beach, you’ll want to use a soap that helps neutralize the salt. Always rinse the frames and sills thoroughly. If you don't, the salt will just creep back onto the glass the next time it gets humid.
Licensing and permits
At the state level, Florida doesn't require a specific "window cleaning license." This makes it much easier to start than being an electrician or a plumber. However, almost every county and city in Florida will require what’s called a Business Tax Receipt (BTR).
This used to be called an "occupational license." It’s basically a small fee you pay to the local government for the right to do business in that city. It usually costs between $30 and $80 a year. If you’re working in multiple cities, you might need one for each, though some counties have a "county-wide" version that covers everything.
When you go to get your BTR or open a business bank account, they’re going to ask for your paperwork. Florida banks like Seacoast Bank or Chase Business will want to see your Articles of Organization from Sunbiz and your EIN letter from the IRS. They might also ask for an "operating agreement," which is just a document that says how the business is run. Even if you’re the only employee, having this makes you look professional and helps you get that bank account open fast.
Getting your first 10 customers
The hardest part is getting started, but in Florida, word travels fast. Your first 10 customers are the most important because they will lead to the next 100. The easiest way to start is by looking at your own neighborhood. Put out a few yard signs (if your HOA allows it) and post on the Nextdoor app.
A great trick is the "Free Demo." If you see a neighbor outside, offer to clean their front door or one large window for free. Once they see the difference between their "dirty" window and your "professional" clean, they’ll usually ask you to do the whole house.
Facebook groups are also huge in Florida. Every town has a "Mom’s Group" or a "Community Word of Mouth" page. Join those and be helpful. Don't just spam your link; answer questions about cleaning or home maintenance. When someone asks for a window cleaner, your name will be the one that pops up. Once you have a few happy customers, ask them to leave you a review on Google. In the service world, a 5-star review is worth its weight in gold.
Seasonal calendar for Florida
Your business will change with the seasons. Florida has a very specific rhythm that you need to learn to maximize your income.
- October to April (Peak Season): This is "Snowbird Season." Thousands of people move back to Florida for the winter. They want their homes looking perfect for the holidays and for guests. This is your busiest time. You should be booking out weeks in advance.
- March and April (Pollen Season): In many parts of Florida, everything turns yellow for a few weeks. That oak pollen sticks to windows like glue. Everyone wants a clean once the pollen stops falling.
- June to November (Hurricane Season): This is when the heavy rains come. While you might lose some days to storms, you’ll also get a lot of work cleaning up after them. Wind-blown rain carries a lot of dirt and debris that sticks to glass.
- July and August (The Slow Down): It is incredibly hot during these months. Many residents go on vacation to get away from the heat. This is a good time to focus on commercial storefronts or interior-only jobs where the air conditioning is running.
Frequently asked questions
Q? Do I need to buy an expensive van to start? You definitely don’t. Many successful cleaners in Florida start with a small SUV or even a reliable sedan. As long as you can fit your ladder on a roof rack and your buckets in the back, you are good to go. Most customers care more about the quality of your work and your punctuality than what kind of truck you drive.
Q? Is an LLC really necessary in Florida? While you can technically work as a "sole proprietor," it is very risky. Florida is a litigious state, meaning people like to sue. If you accidentally break an expensive custom window or someone trips over your ladder, an LLC protects your personal savings. For $125, it is the cheapest "peace of mind" you can buy for your new business.
Q? How do I handle the extreme Florida heat? Start early! Most Florida pros are on their first job by 7:00 or 8:00 AM. Drink twice as much water as you think you need and wear moisture-wicking clothes. A wide-brimmed hat is also a lifesaver. If you feel dizzy, stop. No job is worth a trip to the hospital for heat exhaustion.
Q? What is the "late fee" for Florida annual reports? Florida is very strict about their May 1st deadline. If you forget to file your annual report for your LLC by then, the state hits you with a $400 late fee. They don't give warnings, and they don't waive it. Put a reminder in your phone for April 1st every year so you never have to pay that extra $400.
Q? Can I clean windows while it’s raining? In Florida, "rain" usually means a 20-minute downpour followed by steam. You can't clean in a tropical storm, but light rain doesn't actually make windows dirty—dirt does. If it’s just a drizzle, you can keep working. But if there is lightning, you must get off the ladders immediately and wait it out in your vehicle.
Q? What should I bring to open a business bank account? Florida banks are pretty standard. You will need your Articles of Organization from Sunbiz, your EIN confirmation letter, a photo ID, and usually a small deposit of $25 to $100. Some banks, like Seacoast or Wells Fargo, might also ask for your Operating Agreement. It’s always best to call ahead and ask for their "business account checklist" so you don't waste a trip.
Q? How much should I charge for screen cleaning? In Florida, screens get filthy with dust and bugs. Many cleaners include a basic wipe-down for free, but a "deep clean" of screens using a specialized machine or a brush and hose should be an extra charge. Most pros charge $2 to $5 per screen. It adds up fast on a house with 30 windows!
Q? Do I need a permit to use a pressure washer? If you decide to add pressure washing to your window cleaning, be careful. Some Florida counties have strict "water runoff" rules to protect the local environment. You might need a special permit or a way to catch the soapy water before it hits the storm drain. Always check your local city ordinances before you start spraying.
Starting a business is a big step, but you don't have to do it all alone. At Ruunly, we help people like you handle the boring stuff like billing, professional websites, and scheduling for just $19/mo. This lets you focus on cleaning windows and making money while we handle the back-office tasks. It’s like having a business partner who never sleeps.