Start™How to Start a Cleaning Company in South Africa
Here's everything you need to register your Cleaning Company, stay compliant, and hit the ground running.
Why Start a Cleaning Company?
Starting a cleaning company in South Africa is a promising venture due to the consistent demand for cleaning services across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. With relatively low startup costs and the flexibility to scale, it's an accessible business for many entrepreneurs. The cleaning industry is expected to continue growing, offering ample opportunities for new entrants.
🪜 Step-by-Step: How to Start Your Cleaning Company
Follow these steps to launch your Cleaning Company successfully.
1Register Your Company
Register Your Company
Registering your business makes it official and gives you the documents you need to:
- Open a business bank account
- Hire employees
- Sign contracts
- Apply for tenders and government work
It’s the first step to running your company legally.
2Get a Letter of Good Standing
Get a Letter of Good Standing
Register with COIDA to protect your employees if they get injured or sick on the job. Once you're registered and up to date, you’ll get a Letter of Good Standing—often needed for tenders.
3Register with the CSD
Register with the CSD
The Central Supplier Database (CSD) is where businesses register to supply goods or services to the government. Signing up makes it easier for you to be seen and considered for government tenders.
4Get a B-BBEE Affidavit
Get a B-BBEE Affidavit
Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) is a government program that supports economic transformation. If your company earns less than R10 million a year, you’ll likely qualify as an Exempt Micro Enterprise (EME), which means you only need a simple B-BBEE affidavit.
5Get a Tax Clearance Certificate
Get a Tax Clearance Certificate
A Tax Clearance Certificate shows you're in good standing with SARS. It’s often needed when applying for tenders, funding, or doing business across borders.
6Register with the NCCA
Register with the NCCA
The NCCA (National Contract Cleaning Association) is the industry body for cleaning companies in South Africa. It sets standards, promotes professional practices, and helps businesses stay compliant with industry regulations.
Why register? If you register your cleaning company with the NCCA, it:
- Boosts your credibility with clients and government institutions
- Helps you qualify for contracts and tenders (especially with the government)
- Keeps you informed about legal and health & safety requirements
- Connects you with training and industry support
It’s not legally required, but it’s highly recommended if you want to grow and compete professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about starting a Cleaning Company.
Every great company starts with a first step.
We'll help you register, stay compliant, and get your business moving—without the stress.