Merry Maids
Merry Maids offers cleaning services to residential and small commercial customers. Known for reliable home and office cleaning, it operates in the household and commercial cleaning services industry.
About Merry Maids
Merry Maids is an international franchisor which sells and supports residential cleaning services franchises throughout the United States and Canada, and the United Kingdom. Merry Maids was founded in 1979, and was acquired by ServiceMaster in 1988. In 2007, the company had 1,400 independently owned and operated franchises worldwide and over 8,000 employees.
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Merry Maids franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a Merry Maids® franchise ranges from $126,875 to $169,325, according to [p.1].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is $55,000 and it is payable upon execution of the Franchise Agreement [p.23]. This fee is nonrefundable and represents a contract liability recognized when cash payments are received in advance of performing services [p.162].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The franchisee must pay a weekly royalty of 7% of Gross Sales starting from the first week of service to customers [p.103]. Additionally, there is a mandatory minimum payment requirement for royalties or advertising funds, regardless of sales levels, which could result in termination if not met [p.4]. This isn't specified in the excerpts regarding the exact amount for advertising fees, but it does mention that advertising costs are expensed when incurred and include national advertising fund expenses [p.161].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to the FDD, the franchisor can refuse to permit the transfer of ownership of a franchise except for good cause [p.6]. Good cause includes but is not limited to unspecified factors. Therefore, you cannot freely sell or transfer your franchise without the franchisor's approval, which may be granted or denied based on their discretion and the reasons provided.
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor may terminate the agreement on any grounds available by law [p.254]. Additionally, according to [p.5], the franchisor can terminate the franchise prior to expiration for good cause, which includes failure to comply with lawful provisions of the franchise agreement and not curing such failures within a reasonable time frame, typically no more than 30 days.
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
To qualify as a franchisee, you must demonstrate that you and your Guarantors are not insolvent [p.85] and have the financial ability to continue investing in and growing the Franchised Business and the brand within your Marketing Area. However, specific net worth or liquid capital requirements are not detailed in these excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
You do not receive an exclusive territory [p.53]. However, you have limited protected rights within your territory while the Franchise Agreement is in effect, preventing the franchisor from establishing other Merry Maids businesses offering residential maid cleaning services using the System or Marks within your territory [p.53].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides initial and ongoing training that may vary based on the franchisee's experience. Initial Franchise Fee includes training for two people (one must be the franchisee or an approved manager) attending the same session, with additional fees for extra trainees or separate sessions [p.24]. Ongoing support is provided through SM Manager under a management agreement, which may include training, support, marketing, and other services [p.50, p.42]. This isn't specified in the excerpts regarding detailed ongoing support specifics beyond initial training.
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 27, 2025, there were a total of 768 franchised Take 5 outlets in the United States [p.16]. During the last three years, 268 outlets were terminated, not renewed, reacquired, or ceased operations for other reasons [p.4].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
Yes, the franchisor shares financial performance information. According to [p.63], Item 19 presents financial performance data for certain active franchises during a specific period. Additionally, [p.67] states that written substantiation can be provided upon request and that these figures are based on financial reports submitted by franchisees.
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are generally allowed to sell goods or services at reasonable prices you choose, unless specific pricing is set by the franchisor [p.101]. You must purchase an opening inventory of products from third-party vendors as specified by the franchisor, including cleaning products, equipment, and supplies; business cards, brochures, and printed materials; and uniforms [p.35]. This isn't specified in the excerpts for where you must buy supplies beyond these items.