According to the experts over at All Pro Cleaning Systems, the first step in selecting a business cleaning service is clearly defining the scope of services you require. Make a list of all the areas and surfaces needing cleaning, like offices, restrooms, floors, windows, and kitchens. Consider service frequency needs: daily, weekly, monthly, etc. Factor in things like square footage, hours of operation, flooring types, and expected foot traffic volumes. Understanding your comprehensive cleaning requirements upfront is crucial.
Research Local Companies
Once you know what you need, start researching local commercial cleaning companies that can potentially fulfill those requirements. Browse company websites and read about their service offerings, areas served, experience levels, and specialties. Check customer reviews and ratings. Ask other businesses for recommendations on cleaners they use. Compile a list of 5-10 strong potential candidates in your area.
Compare Credentials
Ensure you only evaluate companies that are properly insured, licensed, and bonded for liability and worker protection purposes. They should have all necessary state/local operating permits and meet OSHA safety standards. Look for companies belonging to professional associations like ISSA, the worldwide cleaning association, which requires adhering to strict codes of ethics. Having relevant industry credentials shows credibility and commitment to best practices.
Inquire About Training
A major differentiator between cleaning services is the level of training their staff receives. Look for companies that have robust employee training programs which cover proper cleaning techniques, use of equipment/chemicals, surface specialties, safety protocols, customer service and more. Well-trained cleaners provide better quality results compared to undertrained teams. Ask about the frequency and depth of training provided to staff members.
Check Products and Equipment
Take stock of the cleaning products and equipment the company uses. It is best to choose those that use eco-friendly, green-certified products devoid of harsh chemicals, toxins, and pollutants to preserve indoor air quality and occupant health. Ensure they use modern, well-maintained tools and machinery like HEPA-filtered vacuums, auto-scrubbers, steam cleaners, etc. Using proper products and gear affects cleaning effectiveness.
Evaluate Value and Pricing
While pricing should not be the sole deciding factor, it’s still important to assess if companies’ costs represent a good value compared to the services provided. Get detailed pricing quotes that itemize costs for each service, frequency, square footage, additional fees, etc. Cheap prices can signal inadequate staffing or cutting corners, while excessive pricing may squeeze you. A fair, competitive rate respective of industry standards is ideal.
Seek Referrals and References
An easy way to gauge a cleaning company’s abilities and customer satisfaction levels is through referrals and references from existing clients. Any reputable company should be able to provide testimonials, reference letters, and even site visits showcasing their work in action.
Examine Industry Experience
When vetting companies, look at how long they have been operating and their depth of industry experience, particularly in serving businesses like yours. While new startups may be competent, opting for a well-established firm with extensive commercial cleaning expertise usually translates into more proven processes, knowledgeable staff, and higher service quality.
Review Documented Policies
Finally, ask companies to provide copies of documented policies and standard operating procedures that outline their cleaning methodologies, safety guidelines, hiring standards, quality control, customer service, billing, and more. Having these formalized institutional policies suggests a higher degree of professionalism, accountability and quality assurance compared to companies winging it without defined standards.
Conclusion
Selecting the right professional cleaning company to maintain your business facilities requires careful evaluation of many factors, not just pricing. Taking the time upfront to thoroughly vet companies’ credentials, training, processes, products, experience, and policies pays dividends through superior, consistent service. Do your due diligence to pick the best possible cleaning partner for your needs.
