FAQs

Do I need window cleaning experience?

No experience is required.
We provide comprehensive training in both field operations (like window cleaning methods and safety) and back-office systems (admin, customer service, invoicing, and software). Many of our franchisees had no prior experience before joining Millhouse - and are now running successful, growing businesses. We would say some experience in a manual job would be advantageous - so you know you like being on the road and being active every day.

How long does it take to launch?

Depending on the package you choose, you could go from discovery call to launch in 30 days! Time barriers may include accessing funding, sourcing equipment and forming your company - but with our help, you could be up and running in no time.

How much does it cost to get started?

The total initial investment ranges from £12,000 to £25,000, depending on your chosen package and territory. Our packages can include a leased van and equipment, or you can source your own (subject to minimum specifications). Our full business-in-a-box set up is the most popular.

Need finance? We can help you apply for the UK Government Startup Loan Scheme, and we’ll guide you through building your business plan.

What’s included in the Franchise Package?

We offer three flexible options to suit your budget and goals. All our franchise packages include:

  • an exclusive territory with a pre-established window cleaning round with a minimum value of £25,000 per year in revenue (with many far higher than this)

  • comprehensive training

  • access to our exclusive Franchise Hub, including our manual to guide you on all aspects of running your business and various resources, tools and templates

  • van livery

  • a dedicated webpage

  • a starter marketing package for you to hit the streets hard and start growing from day one.

  • ongoing central marketing support, including Google ads and social media

  • one-to-one business support

We offer three flexible equipment options to suit your budget and goals:

  1. Lease a van from Millhouse but source your own equipment

  2. Use your own van and buy equipment from us

  3. Full Business-In-a-Box service (van lease + fit out + equipment ready to go)

These options will impact your initial franchise fee, and you can build your own bespoke package. So we can’t give you a price without knowing what you need!

Do I get an exclusive territory?

Yes.
Each franchisee is assigned a geographically exclusive territory within Kent. You’ll have free rein to canvass, flyer, market and serve customers within your zone — and your area will be featured on your own SEO-optimised franchise webpage.

What tools and systems will I use?

You’ll get access to our round management software, used to:

  • Plan and schedule rounds

  • Invoice customers and accept payments

  • Send SMS reminders and updates

  • Track revenue, customer details, and performance

  • Manage your business from phone or desktop

You’ll also benefit from marketing templates, compliance tools, and central support from our management and marketing team.

Will I really be my own boss, or will I have a manager?

This is a true business ownership opportunity.
You’ll set up your own limited company and operate independently, under the Millhouse brand and with full support. You’ll be responsible for your business performance, finances, and customers - with our training and mentoring to guide you every step of the way.

While there won’t be a “boss” breathing down your neck, there are minimum performance standards to stick to. These are simply common sense - an expectation for you to protect the Millhouse brand, dedicate yourself to looking after the business you’ve been given properly, and completing the value of the work booked on the system each month as a minimum (in reality, you’ll end up doing LOTS more!).

How much can I earn?

There is no simple answer to this - but we work hard to provide you with realistic individual earnings forecast calculators before you sign your franchise agreement.

Your earnings will vary based on how fast you work, the size of your round and whether you’re working yourself or hiring staff.

For example, in month one based on a £35,000 round package, you should expect to clear almost £2,000.

Our franchisees with round values in excess of £100,000 have personal incomes of more than £70,000 per year. It all depends on how fast you grow and how much work you can do!

Most franchisees will break even on their initial investment within their first 12 months (which is a THIRD of the time of most successful startups) and if you’re hungry for growth, this could be even sooner than that.

Can I take time off?

Yes - in fact we encourage it! Our franchise manual includes guidance on managing holiday absence and arranging cover. We provide a floater service if you’d like to take a proper break from work, or you can get ahead/catch up on your own. You’re in control, but we’re here to help you manage your workload when needed.

Do I have to deal with tax and accounting?

Yes, but you’re not alone.
We provide guidance on:

  • Setting up your limited company

  • Paying yourself as a director

  • VAT registration and compliance

  • Working with an accountant

  • Managing tax obligations

  • Working with an accountant

All of this is covered in your Franchise Manual and during your training.

Can I hire employees?

Yes - and we encourage it when you’re ready to scale.
We provide advice on recruiting, managing, and training team members or subcontractors so you can grow beyond being a one-person business if that’s your goal.

Will you help me find customers?

Absolutely.
We support you with:

  • Central digital marketing campaigns

  • Your own dedicated SEO-optimised webpage

  • Canvassing training

  • Printed flyers and business cards

  • Access to our professional canvassing team

  • Subsidised round purchase scheme

But all franchisees start with paying customers from day one.

What makes Millhouse different from other franchises?

  • Real-world experience from founder Neil Miller

  • Proven reputation via our commercial/residential business millhousecleaning.co.uk

  • 5-star reviews and Kent Trusted Trader status — adopted by all franchisees

  • Ongoing admin and compliance support, not just cleaning training

  • Flexible startup packages

  • Comprehensive Franchise Operations Manual

  • Honest, fair approach to franchising — no gimmicks or empty promises

What’s in the Franchise Manual?

Everything. Seriously.
Our Franchise Manual is your go-to guide for running every part of your business. Topics include:

  • Business setup

  • Legal and compliance obligations

  • Equipment lists and maintenance

  • Customer service and communication

  • Pricing, quoting, and upselling

  • Credit control and invoicing

  • Cleaning guides (domestic, solar, conservatory, etc.)

  • Scaling, marketing, and staff management

  • Health & safety, vehicle policy, and KPIs

  • Resale, renewal, and exit strategy

It’s your operations bible - and it’s updated regularly.

How do I get started?

It’s simple:

  1. Fill in the Interest Form and receive the Franchise Brochure

  2. Schedule a call with us

  3. Choose your territory and package

  4. Complete training and setup

  5. Launch and start earning

We’ll be with you every step of the way.

Still have questions?

We’d love to chat.
Call Neil on 01622 962 133.