If you’re new to shopping for commercial janitorial services, understanding what will get you the most accurate quote could save you thousands of dollars.  And it’s not all about money either, welcoming the right people into your building is important, and it can be downright tricky. We’ve all been there — wondering not just about cost, but also about value and trust. If you’ve ever found yourself questioning, “What’s really included in this quote?” or “Am I getting the best bang for my buck?” you’re not alone.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the ins and outs of commercial janitorial services.  Hopefully you’ll find some insights that will help you get a quote that reflects true value.

Understanding Commercial Janitorial Services

At its core, commercial janitorial services simply means keeping spaces clean and welcoming. The key difference is scale.  Keeping a large facility clean with it’s offices, work areas, garages, kitchens, large bathrooms and so on, takes a higher level of organization and professionalism. This is the goal of professional cleaning services.  They can cater to a variety of environments, from bustling corporate offices to quiet medical clinics.  They can maintain efficient and cost-effective inventories, direct and monitor dozens of employees, and deliver consistent quality and dependability day in and day out.

These services can encompass a range of tasks, including daily cleaning, deep monthly and annual cleanings, and more specialized offerings like carpet cleaning, window washing, and floor care. The key to getting an accurate quote, is identifying exactly what your unique property needs.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Janitorial Services

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into what really affects the cost of these services. Several factors come into play, and understanding them can help you avoid surprises when the quotes roll in.

1. Size of the Facility: Just like cooking for a large gathering takes more ingredients, cleaning a bigger space requires more time, supplies, and equipment. So a simple detail to know is the square footage of the facility that needs to be cared for.
2. Frequency of Cleaning: Think about how often you need the service. Is it a daily job, a weekly one, or perhaps monthly? Spaced services can help you save money, but the amount of traffic needs to be considered.  Large and heavily used bathrooms will likely require daily cleaning, sometimes multiple times a day.  An executive bathroom may only require weekly care.
3. Specific Services Required: Besides your typical office and facility cleaning, what features make your building unique?  Do you have a large amount of windows that will require regular washing?  What about lobbies with marble floors or chandeliers that need extra care?  Do you have warehouse areas or underground garages that need larger equipment to maintain?  Listing out these unique features and thinking ahead about how you would like them to be cared for will help you get more accurate quotes.
4. Location and Accessibility: Consider whether the location of your business is easy to access. Is parking tricky?  Will equipment and staff have to go through extra security or delays before getting to work?  You may already be accustomed to certain quirks about your property, but keep in mind that someone walking it for the first time may not notice those potential challenges.
5. Level of Cleaning Needed: Are we talking about a quick tidy-up or a deep cleaning that tackles every corner and crevice? The latter obviously usually comes with a heftier price tag.  It’s important to quantify your expectations when it comes to the level of service.  Of course, areas that are more customer-facing can be given more attention than others.

Importance of Detailed Requirements

You may be thinking “wouldn’t a professional cleaner be able to see all of those things when they walk through?”   It’s a fair question, but one of the biggest mistakes companies make is not providing enough specifics when asking for the initial quote. And there is a big difference between what can be offered and what you actually want  Think of it like ordering a coffee. If you simply say, “I’ll have a coffee,” you might end up with something you didn’t want. But if you specify, “I’d like a medium latte with almond milk and no sugar,” you’re more likely to get exactly what you desire.

Creating a checklist of your cleaning needs will make all the difference. Are you looking to keep the floors spotless, do you need someone to also tackle the windows? The more specific you are, the more accurate the quote will be.

Getting Accurate Quotes

So when reaching out for quotes, you can ensure you are comparing apples to apples, rather than apples to oranges, by having your details and needs organized.  Here are a few more tips to guide you through the process:

• Request Quotes from Multiple Providers: If you were shopping for a car, you probably wouldn’t settle for the first one you see on the lot.  In the same way, don’t settle for the first cleaning service quote you receive. Collect a handful of quotes to analyze them.  What is the cost difference for different aspects between different companies?  Does one charge more for waxing floors than another?  Why?  Can one match a lower price, or do they have better equipment and processes that produce a better result?  Comparing in this way can help you get the best value for your budget.
• Ask Plenty of Questions: What’s included in the quote? Are there any hidden fees? How do they handle special requests? Don’t hesitate to ask until you feel comfortable.
• Understand the Quotes: Sometimes, quotes can be confusing, filled with jargon and technical terms. Make sure you clarify these details to avoid any misunderstandings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While the path to finding a reliable janitorial service can be winding, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls.

Again, the most common misstep is neglecting to specify your cleaning needs. Admittedly, it’s not the most exciting process to walk the property with your managers to detail everything, but it is a part of getting the best service and value.  This process will also protect you from focusing solely on cost.  When you know exactly what your property needs, you’ll be more aware of the quality of service it demands.

Also, beware of ignoring reviews or recommendations. Ensuring you’re choosing a reputable service provider is crucial; after all, you wouldn’t hire someone without checking their references, right?  If a company is short on reviews online, ask them for reviews from verified current clients.

Building a Long-Term Relationship with Your Janitorial Service

Once you’ve landed a janitorial service, it’s not the end of the journey; think of it as the beginning of a partnership. Open communication is key.

Regularly assess how the service is meeting your needs. Are there areas where you’d like to see improvement, or perhaps changes in frequency or services? If you build a solid relationship with your service provider, they’ll be more likely to understand your evolving needs.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of commercial janitorial services may seem daunting at first, but with a bit of understanding and preparation, you can uncover the clarity you seek. Just as a well-kept garden flourishes under careful tending, your relationship with a janitorial service can grow and thrive when you communicate openly and honestly about your needs.

Are you ready to take the next step in obtaining accurate quotes? There’s no need to feel overwhelmed—CONTACT US for a consultation to see how we can help you create a cleaner, more inviting space without breaking the bank!