By It’s a familiar scenario in the janitorial services industry: you request cleaning quotes and receive a range of prices that can be startlingly different. If you’ve ever found yourself puzzled by these varying quotes, it’s important to understand the components that go into calculating these costs. Here’s a breakdown of the six key elements every comprehensive cleaning proposal should include:
1. Direct Staff Wages
Staff wages form the lion’s share of cleaning costs, often around 60%. Companies estimate the number of hours required for cleaning and multiply this by the market rate for their cleaning staff. The accuracy of these estimates hinges on the detailed information you provide about your specific cleaning needs.
2. Direct Staff Taxes and Benefits
Beyond basic salaries, there are additional expenses associated with the cleaning staff that should be factored in, such as payroll taxes, employee benefits (like health insurance and retirement plans), and other costs like background checks, drug tests, and uniforms. These can vary based on the company’s policies and the region.
3. Supplies
Two types of supplies are crucial for cleaning services: cleaning supplies (chemicals, rags) and consumables (toilet paper, soap). While cleaning supplies are typically included in the base price, it’s wise to ask for the costs of consumable supplies. Local companies often have competitive pricing for these items.
4. Equipment
Depending on the specific cleaning needs of your facility, specialized equipment might be necessary. The cost of this equipment and its maintenance is a factor in the overall quote. The extent and type of equipment used can significantly influence the final price.
5. Indirect Costs (Overhead)
The overhead costs for a cleaning company include various administrative expenses like billing, human resources, insurance, and supervision. These are relatively consistent across clients, so companies usually apply a standard percentage to each quote to cover these overhead costs.
6. Profit Margin
For a cleaning company to sustain and improve its services, a reasonable profit margin is essential. Companies with a healthy profit margin are often more reliable and can provide superior service. Longevity and positive references are good indicators of a company’s stability and quality.
When evaluating cleaning quotes, it’s crucial to ensure they encompass all these elements. Opting for a seemingly low-cost provider that misses any of these aspects could lead to inadequate service and ultimately, dissatisfaction with your choice. Make sure you understand what’s included in each quote to make an informed decision.
