We’ve seen a lot over our 20+ years in the janitorial cleaning industry. And we’ve realized that many frustrations can be avoided with prep. To help you find a great janitorial service, we’ve put together a few tips about how to hire a cleaning service for your office or building.
1. Decide on what kind of office cleaning services you need. Then set your budget.
Standard office cleaning includes: taking out trash, vacuuming, dusting, sweeping, mopping and wiping down counters. A few times a year, it’s ideal to deep clean. This can include high dusting, pressure washing, window cleaning, etc. It’s tempting to think your full time employees can just pitch in. But, something to consider: although paying for commercial janitorial services might seem expensive, it will likely save you time and money in the long run. For one thing, you don’t have to use your HR or Facilities team to find and train new cleaning employees, and fire them if they don’t work out. Learn more.
Keep other underlying business needs in mind during your search for an office cleaning service partner. Are you limited to only night cleaning? Do you want only eco friendly products used? Is it important that the janitorial service provider is licensed and bonded? Do you care whether the company has a quality assurance program?
2. Consider how frequently you need office cleaning.
You may want cleaning staff once a week or several times a day. If you need constant cleaning, a day porter is worth considering.
3. Get a list of company referrals from business associates and friends.
So, you know what you need and what you can pay. Now, the hardest part of how to hire a cleaning service: how to decide on a company. Recommendations are helpful, especially from businesses similar to yours. If you can’t find recommendations, try directories such as yellowpages.com and citysearch.com. Yelp and Google might also help you find cleaning companies, but cleaning business listings may have very few reviews.
4. Find a company that specializes in office cleaning.
They are experienced in routine cleaning maintenance and emergency situations such as spills on carpets. They also have the supplies and equipment necessary to do the job right.
The company should have staff with experience. A good company will have regular training for their employees on best cleaning practices and safety. Ask the company during your interview of their training process. Depending on your business, you may want a cleaning service the wears a uniform for professionalism in your office.
You can investigate the background of janitorial services. Ask for any references of current or former businesses. At least check if they have any testimonials on their website and other online review sites. You may also check with the local branch of the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints. If they have been in business for many years this usually means they have a good reputation and are qualified. The employee turnover rate in the janitorial service industry is high and most cleaning service companies don’t last over 5 years.
Make sure the company that you hire is the proper business licenses and adequate business insurance. If the company is not adequately insured you can be held legally liable for any workplace accidents or property damage.
You should have one point of contact at the cleaning company to address all your needs. It is important to have a clear line of communication should an emergency arise.
5. Consider a company that uses green cleaning products and eco friendly practices.
Not only will it reduce non-green waste, it will also lead to a healthier non-chemical environment for you and your employees.
One more tip for how to hire a cleaning service: consider a privately owned office cleaning service provider and not a franchise janitorial service provider. They often cost less and pay their employees more, motivating them to work harder.
Once you have a company the fulfills all your needs, get a written estimate. You should check at least three different companies. Do not go primarily with the lowest offer. There are variations in experience, references, level of professionalism, and your comfort level with the janitorial cleaning service provider.
If you need office cleaning or commercial cleaning in the Portland, Oregon metro area or Virginia/Washington D.C. contact us to learn more about how we can work together.