Choosing a janitorial company can be similar to dating. There are good options and bad ones, and if you aren’t careful, you might find yourself looking for an exit strategy. How can you tell ahead of time if you’re about to partner with a cleaning contractor that won’t work out? What warning signs should you be aware of? What types of companies should you avoid?
There are three kinds of janitorial contractors you want to steer clear of. Avoiding these will save you the hassle of a messy breakup. So, when searching for potential bidders, keep an eye out for the following companies.
The “No Experience with Your Type of Facility” Janitorial Company
As a rule of thumb, it’s risky to hire a cleaning company without experience in maintaining facilities like yours. This is especially true if your building isn’t just a standard office space. Different types of facilities come with unique challenges that require specific knowledge. Medical buildings, manufacturing plants, public venues, retail spaces, and corporate offices all have their distinct demands. A janitorial company that isn’t prepared for these challenges could lead to a disappointing partnership.
The “We Aren’t Local” Janitorial Company
The cleaning industry is highly competitive, prompting many contractors to find new ways to grow their businesses. Sometimes, this means expanding into new areas. While it’s good when quality businesses enter a new market, problems arise when these companies lack local personnel to support their operations. Local management is crucial for a successful janitorial program. If an out-of-town company doesn’t have local support, they’ll likely struggle to meet your facility’s needs. The absence of local management often results in a failed relationship.
The “We’ll Take Anything” Janitorial Company
Picture this: you’re planning to build a new house. You have two options for contractors. The first is a custom home builder who constructs five or six homes each year. The second is a local handyman who has built a couple of houses and takes on any kind of job. Unless your primary goal is to save money at the expense of quality, you’d likely choose the first option. Why? Because the specialist offers confidence in the final product.
Similarly, some cleaning companies specialize in certain types of work. If a janitorial contractor is willing to “do anything,” they’re probably not the best choice for your facility. Some companies focus on small accounts, others on project work like floor care or carpet cleaning, and some on mid to large commercial facilities. Choosing the right company for your specific needs is crucial. Otherwise, you could be facing a quick breakup.
The Importance of a Good “Fit”
Selecting the right janitorial contractor is all about finding the right fit. Does the company in question suit your needs? Do they service facilities like yours? Do they have local management that can quickly address your needs and concerns? Do they specialize in the type of service you require? When you can confidently answer “yes” to these questions, you have a qualified bidder for your facility service needs.
By being mindful of these considerations, you can avoid the pitfalls of partnering with the wrong janitorial company and ensure a smooth and successful relationship with your cleaning contractor.
