Business ideas
8 min read

How to Start a Profitable Crime Scene Cleanup Business [11 Steps]

Learn how to start a crime scene cleanup business with our 11+ step guide. Discover the best practices, equipment, and marketing strategies to succeed.
Newfoundr

By Nick Cotter
Updated Feb 05, 2024

image of a crime scene cleanup business
This page may feature products from our affiliate partners, which could influence the products we discuss due to potential compensation. Despite this, our evaluations are impartial, based solely on our independent analysis. The content here is intended for informational purposes and should not be seen as legal advice. For professional guidance, consulting with a legal expert is recommended.
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1. Perform market analysis.

Starting a crime scene cleanup business involves a deep understanding of the market to ensure the services provided meet the needs of the community and adhere to regulatory standards. Market analysis is the cornerstone of your business plan, guiding you through the competitive landscape and consumer demand. Here's how to perform an effective market analysis:

  • Research competitors: Identify existing crime scene cleanup companies in your area. Analyze their services, pricing, market share, and customer reviews to understand the competitive landscape.
  • Understand regulations: Investigate the local, state, and federal regulations that govern biohazard cleanup. This will help ensure your business is compliant and may reveal market gaps.
  • Analyze demand: Assess the demand for crime scene cleanup services by examining crime rates, demographic data, and potential partnerships with local law enforcement, property managers, and funeral homes.
  • Identify target audience: Determine who your primary customers will be, such as commercial properties, residential clients, or government agencies, and tailor your services to their specific needs.
  • Examine pricing strategies: Study how your competitors price their services and consider your cost structure to develop competitive yet profitable pricing strategies.
image of a crime scene cleanup business

Are crime scene cleanup businesses profitable?

Yes, crime scene cleanup businesses can be profitable when run efficiently and with a good business plan. Crime scene cleanup requires specialized services and procedures, so businesses that specialize in this area can often reap the rewards of their expertise. Additionally, crime scene cleanups are often covered by insurance, which can help to cover any costs associated with running the business.

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2. Draft a crime scene cleanup business plan.

Starting a crime scene cleanup business requires a well-crafted plan to navigate the unique challenges of the industry. Your business plan will serve as a roadmap for starting and growing your business, ensuring you cover all necessary aspects to operate effectively and in compliance with regulations. Below are key points to consider when drafting your business plan:

  • Executive Summary: Begin with an overview of your business, its mission, and the services you will offer.
  • Market Analysis: Research your target market, demand for services, competition, and pricing structures.
  • Services: Detail the types of cleanup services you will provide, such as homicide, suicide, accidental death, and biohazard remediation.
  • Regulations: Outline the regulatory requirements for crime scene cleanup in your area, including permits, certifications, and training requirements.
  • Operations Plan: Describe your operational workflow, equipment, and supplies needed, as well as procedures for safety and disposal.
  • Marketing Strategy: Develop a plan to reach potential clients through online marketing, networking with law enforcement, and community outreach.
  • Financial Projections: Include projected income, expenses, and cash flow for at least the first three years to understand funding needs and profitability.

How does a crime scene cleanup business make money?

A crime scene cleanup business makes money by providing services to clean up crime scenes to the families and organizations affected. This can include private homeowners, government agencies, businesses, and other organizations who need these services due to a tragedy. For example, a target audience for the 11 Steps To Starting a Successful Crime Scene Cleanup Business could include law enforcement, who may require assistance in quickly and thoroughly cleaning up a crime scene. Additionally, this business could earn money from insurance companies that cover the costs of cleanup in certain incidents. Finally, they can gain income from commercial clients such as funeral homes or hospitals that require cleaning after dealing with traumatic situations.

3. Develop a crime scene cleanup brand.

Creating a distinctive brand for your crime scene cleanup business is essential in establishing trust and recognition in this sensitive industry. Your brand should communicate professionalism, empathy, and expertise. Below are key points to guide you in developing your brand:

  • Define your brand message: Craft a clear and concise message that conveys compassion and professionalism. Your message should reflect the sensitive nature of the work and your commitment to helping clients during difficult times.
  • Choose a memorable name and logo: Select a business name and design a logo that are both memorable and indicative of your services, ensuring they resonate with the nature of crime scene cleanup and reassure potential clients.
  • Establish a color scheme and visual elements: Opt for colors and visuals that evoke cleanliness, calm, and reliability. Soft blues, greens, and whites can be comforting and associate your brand with a sense of peace and order.
  • Develop a professional website and marketing materials: Invest in a user-friendly website and high-quality marketing materials that reflect your brand's values and service promises, making sure all elements are consistent in design and message.
  • Emphasize your unique selling proposition (USP): Highlight what sets your service apart, whether it's your rapid response times, specialized cleaning techniques, or compassionate customer service approach.
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How to come up with a name for your crime scene cleanup business?

When it comes to coming up with a name for a crime scene cleanup business, it is important to focus on two key aspects: professionalism and trustworthiness. First, a good name needs to evoke a feeling of trust and professionalism. Consider merging the words ‘clean’ and ‘service’ or using a phrase such as ‘safe return’ or ‘safe cleaning.’ Secondly, the name should be concise and easily memorable. This will help potential customers find and remember your business. Lastly, consider adding in some element of location, such as the city or state you are providing services in. This will make it easier for people searching for crime scene cleaning services in that region to find your business more quickly. With these tips in mind, you can come up with a unique and fitting name for your crime scene cleanup business.

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4. Formalize your business registration.

Once you've laid the groundwork for your crime scene cleanup business, formalizing your business registration is a critical step. It provides you with legal recognition and helps to protect your personal assets. Follow these steps to ensure your business is properly registered:

  • Choose an appropriate business structure (e.g., Sole Proprietorship, LLC, Corporation) that best suits your needs for liability protection and tax purposes.
  • Register your business name with the state. This could either be your legal name, a fictitious DBA (Doing Business As), or the name of your LLC or corporation.
  • Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which is necessary for tax administration for businesses.
  • Apply for the necessary business licenses and permits specific to crime scene cleanup services in your state or local jurisdiction. This often includes a business license, a special waste hauler permit, and OSHA certifications.
  • Register for state and local taxes to ensure you can legally operate and are set up to pay any necessary sales tax, payroll tax, and worker's compensation.
  • If your state requires it, make sure to file a business personal property tax form to tax the assets owned by your business.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore vital resources designed for crime scene cleanup entrepreneurs, offering insights on market trends, best practices, and growth strategies:

  • The American Bio-Recovery Association (ABRA): Provides industry standards, certification programs, and networking opportunities for crime scene cleanup professionals. ABRA Website
  • Cleaning Up After Crime Scenes: A comprehensive guide on the essentials of crime scene cleanup, operational challenges, and how to navigate the regulatory landscape. Link unavailable.
  • Entrepreneur Magazine: Offers articles, guides, and case studies on starting and growing a cleanup business, with industry-specific insights. Entrepreneur Magazine
  • IICRC S540 Standard for Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup: The go-to standard for professionals in the sector, detailing best practices for biohazard remediation. IICRC S540 Standard
  • Crime Scene Cleanup Business Growth Webinars: Series of webinars focusing on marketing, operations, and expanding your cleanup business. Link unavailable.

5. Acquire necessary licenses and permits for crime scene cleanup.

Starting a crime scene cleanup business requires adherence to strict regulations to ensure safety and compliance with legal standards. Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is a critical step in establishing your business. Follow these guidelines to ensure you have the proper documentation:

  • Research Local Regulations: Investigate the specific licenses and permits required in your area. This can vary by state and municipality, and may include a business license, hazardous waste disposal permit, and an occupational safety and health administration (OSHA) permit.
  • OSHA Compliance: Obtain certification in blood-borne pathogen handling, as OSHA requires this for all employees who are potentially exposed to hazardous materials.
  • Environmental Permits: Depending on your location, you may need to acquire permits related to the handling, transportation, and disposal of biomedical waste.
  • Insurance: Secure appropriate insurance coverage, which may include general liability, professional liability, and workers' compensation insurance.
  • Training and Certification: Look for specialized training programs that offer crime scene cleanup certification, which can be an asset in demonstrating professionalism and expertise.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a crime scene cleanup business?

In order to run a crime scene cleanup business, you will need to obtain a variety of licenses and permits from your local and state governments. Examples of these may include a business license, hazardous waste disposal permit, and the appropriate safety certifications for workers in the field. In some areas, additional training or certifications may be required in order to handle biohazards. Additionally, it is important to research any local ordinances that may pertain to the operation of your new business.

6. Open a business bank account and secure funding as needed.

Embarking on the journey of starting a crime scene cleanup business entails ensuring you have the financial foundation to support your operations. A dedicated business bank account is crucial for managing your finances effectively, keeping personal and business expenses separate for tax and tracking purposes. Additionally, securing adequate funding is essential for covering initial costs such as equipment, supplies, and marketing. Here are some steps to guide you through this process:

  • Research banks and choose one that offers business banking services with favorable terms, such as low fees, easy access, and good customer support.
  • Prepare the required documents to open a business bank account, which typically include your business formation papers, EIN, and personal identification.
  • Explore various funding options, including small business loans, government grants, investors, or crowdfunding platforms, to find the best fit for your financial needs.
  • Develop a comprehensive business plan to present to potential lenders or investors, outlining your business strategy, financial projections, and how you plan to repay borrowed funds.
  • Consider applying for a business credit card to handle smaller, routine expenses and build your business credit history.

7. Set pricing for crime scene cleanup services.

Setting the right pricing for crime scene cleanup services is crucial for the sustainability of your business. It requires a balance between being competitive and ensuring profitability. Consider the following factors when determining your pricing structure:

  • Cost of Supplies and Equipment: Calculate the cost of cleaning materials, personal protective equipment, and specialized tools required for different types of cleanups.
  • Labor Costs: Determine fair wages for your staff that reflect their expertise, the risk involved, and the complexity of the job.
  • Disposal Fees: Account for the proper disposal of biohazardous waste, which can be expensive due to strict regulations.
  • Market Rates: Research what competitors charge to ensure your prices are in line with industry standards without undercutting your own expenses.
  • Job Complexity: Offer tiered pricing or adjust quotes based on the severity of the scene, such as the presence of hazardous materials or the size of the area to be cleaned.
  • Travel Expenses: Include the cost of travel to and from the cleanup site, especially for jobs that are far from your base of operations.
  • Emergency Service Premium: Consider charging a premium for rapid response or services outside of normal business hours.

What does it cost to start a crime scene cleanup business?

Initiating a crime scene cleanup business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $45000 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your crime scene cleanup business.

8. Acquire crime scene cleanup equipment and supplies.

Starting a crime scene cleanup business requires the acquisition of specialized equipment and supplies to ensure the safety of your team and the thorough cleaning of the site. The following list details the essential items you'll need to perform this sensitive work effectively and in compliance with health and safety standards.

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Including gloves, biohazard suits, shoe covers, face shields or goggles, and full-face respirators.
  • Professional-grade Cleaning Agents: Enzymatic cleaners, hospital-grade disinfectants, and deodorizers designed to tackle biological materials.
  • Biohazard Waste Containers: Properly labeled and sturdy bags and sharps containers for the disposal of contaminated materials.
  • Specialized Tools: Brushes, scrapers, foggers, and ozone machines for removal and neutralization of odors and stains.
  • Heavy-Duty Equipment: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums, steam cleaners, and carpet extractors for deep cleaning.
  • Transportation and Storage: Secure and labeled vehicles and storage units for safely transporting and disposing of biohazardous waste.
  • Legal Compliance Materials: Documentation kits, including permits, checklists, and regulatory manuals, to ensure adherence to local and federal guidelines.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a crime scene cleanup business:

  • Crime scene clean-up certification – variable cost, often between $500 and $3000
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) kit – usually under $100
  • Suitable cleaning materials and solutions – variable cost, typically between $25 to $50 for basic supplies
  • Chemical protective gloves – upwards of about $20 for a pair of gloves
  • Goggles and face masks – around $25 for both
  • High efficiency vacuum cleaner – around $300 for a suitable model
  • Overalls or coveralls – typically about $20 each
  • Shoes, boots or overshoes – around $30 per pair
  • Containment devices (plastic bags, bin liners etc.) – usually under $50 for a good selection of sizes
  • Heating and cooling equipment (fans/heaters) – usually around $200 each depending on the quality and size of the unit

9. Obtain business insurance for crime scene cleanup, if required.

Starting a crime scene cleanup business involves several crucial steps to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Among these steps, obtaining the right business insurance is essential to protect your company from various risks associated with crime scene cleaning. Here's what you need to know:

  • Research Insurance Providers: Look for insurance companies that offer policies tailored to cleaning or remediation businesses. They will understand the unique risks of crime scene cleanup.
  • Understand Coverage Types: Typically, you'll need general liability insurance, but also consider professional liability, workers' compensation, and pollution liability which covers biohazard disposal.
  • Assess Your Needs: Evaluate the scale of your operations to determine the amount of coverage needed. A larger business or one in a high-crime area might need more coverage.
  • Check Legal Requirements: Some states or local jurisdictions may have specific insurance requirements for crime scene cleanup businesses. Ensure you meet these legal mandates.
  • Consult with Professionals: Speak with an insurance agent or broker who can provide guidance specific to crime scene cleanup businesses and help you navigate the options.
  • Compare Quotes: Obtain multiple quotes to find the best coverage at a competitive price, but don't compromise on the essentials needed for your business's risk profile.
  • Review Policy Annually: As your business grows or changes, so too should your insurance. Review your policy each year to ensure it still meets your needs.

10. Begin marketing your crime scene cleanup services.

Marketing is a crucial step in launching your crime scene cleanup business as it helps establish your presence and attract clients. With a strategic approach, you can effectively reach your target audience, build relationships with key industry contacts, and demonstrate the professionalism and sensitivity required for this line of work. Here are some tips to get you started:

  • Develop a professional website that outlines your services, includes testimonials from past clients, and provides educational resources about crime scene cleanup.
  • Engage in local and online networking by joining professional organizations, attending industry conferences, and participating in community events to build relationships with law enforcement, funeral homes, and property managers.
  • Utilize social media platforms to share before-and-after cleanup photos (with permission and sensitivity), company updates, and educational content to raise awareness and establish your brand.
  • Invest in search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to ensure your website ranks well in search results for terms related to crime scene cleanup services in your area.
  • Consider paid advertising campaigns on social media or Google Ads to target individuals and businesses that may require your services immediately or in the future.
  • Offer workshops or informational sessions to local organizations to educate them about the importance of professional crime scene cleanup and foster trust in your expertise.
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What licenses and permits are needed to run a crime scene cleanup business?

  • Crime scene clean-up certification – variable cost, often between $500 and $3000
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) kit – usually under $100
  • Suitable cleaning materials and solutions – variable cost, typically between $25 to $50 for basic supplies
  • Chemical protective gloves – upwards of about $20 for a pair of gloves
  • Goggles and face masks – around $25 for both
  • High efficiency vacuum cleaner – around $300 for a suitable model
  • Overalls or coveralls – typically about $20 each
  • Shoes, boots or overshoes – around $30 per pair
  • Containment devices (plastic bags, bin liners etc.) – usually under $50 for a good selection of sizes
  • Heating and cooling equipment (fans/heaters) – usually around $200 each depending on the quality and size of the unit

11. Expand your crime scene cleanup business.

Once your crime scene cleanup business has established a solid foundation, expanding your services can help capture a larger market share and increase profitability. Here are some key strategies to consider when you're ready to take your business to the next level.

  • Diversify Services: Offer additional services such as hoarding cleanups, meth lab decontamination, or biohazard transportation to meet a wider range of client needs.
  • Geographical Expansion: Extend your service area by opening new locations or franchising your business model to cover more regions.
  • Invest in Marketing: Enhance your online presence with a professional website, SEO, and social media campaigns. Consider traditional advertising and attending industry events to increase visibility.
  • Networking: Build relationships with law enforcement, funeral homes, and property managers who can provide referrals.
  • Training and Certification: Ensure your team is trained in the latest techniques and holds relevant certifications, which can be a selling point for new customers.
  • Upgrade Equipment: Invest in the latest cleaning technology to improve efficiency and the quality of your services.
  • Customer Feedback: Use customer feedback to refine your services and address any areas needing improvement.