Choosing a cleaning company for your building/project is an important decision. You want to make sure the company is qualified, responsive and trustworthy. Here are some tips on how to hire and what to require from your cleaning company.
1. Get price quotes from at least three companies.
It's not always best to hire the cheapest company. Be sure to compare the proposed scope of work and the quality of products used for the job. Do the price quotes include materials, labor and equipment? What will they charge for special requests outside the scope of work? Beware of deals which sound too good to be true, because they just might be!
2. Ask how long they've been in business.
Cleaning companies notoriously come and go. They often change their name to reset their reputation, but the company is run by same people. Be sure the cleaning company you choose has established a reputation for quality service in the community.
3. Are they licensed, bonded and insured?
Protect yourself and your property. Make sure your cleaning company is properly licensed for the work they are doing. If they are bonded, you have further assurance that you will not suffer a loss at their hands. And never hire a cleaning company who can't show you proof of insurance.
4. Ask if they guarantee their work.
Most companies will tell you that your satisfaction is guaranteed, but what do they mean? Will they return your money if you are dissatisfied? Will they return to the jobsite to make it right? Get the scope of work and price in writing before the work is done so you can compare what you were promised with what you received.
5. Ask for a list of references.
A good cleaning company will have a loyal client base. Ask for references who have projects similar to yours. And once references are provided, do your diligence and contact them!
6. Do they offer 24/7 emergency cleaning services?
In case of a flood, fire, icy sidewalk, clogged toilet or other calamity, can you call on your cleaning company for assistance? If your cleaning company can assist you with emergencies it will save you time and money, because they already know and have access to your building/project.
7. Is a customer service representative assigned to your account?
Once some cleaning companies get your business, it's difficult to get them on the phone. Or you talk to someone different every time you call, and they don't necessarily know your particular account. Before you hire, ask who will manage your account.
8. Will they track your issues and requests, from inception to resolution?
Ask how the cleaning company will handle your issues or requests. How will you know when the issue is resolved or the request is completed? Make sure they have a clear procedure in place to assess, address and follow up.
9. Can they provide all the cleaning services you need?
When choosing a cleaning company, ask about the full scope of services they offer. Why not hire a company who not only cleans your offices, but can also clean your carpets, floors, and windows? It will save you time when those special cleaning projects arise. And they can probably offer you a better price since they are already in your building.
10. Do they offer Green Cleaning products and practices?
The goal of today's green cleaning movement is to minimize impact on the environment, building occupants, and cleaning personnel. If these issues are important to you, ask if your cleaning company has experience with green cleaning.
11. Will they create a custom scope of work for your building?
Before a cleaning company provides you with a quote, they should come look at your building or project and ask questions about your needs so they can customize your scope of work. If they haven't done this, proceed with caution.
12. Do they have a deep/detail cleaning schedule?
Detail cleaning is often neglected by cleaning companies. High dusting, air vent vacuuming, edge vacuuming, etc. should be done at regular intervals to prevent buildup of dust and grime. Ask when your cleaning company performs deep cleaning tasks, and how they track when they are done. And how will they keep you in the loop?
13. Be certain they perform background checks on cleaning and management staff.
You are giving your cleaning company access to your property. Make sure they are diligently screening the cleaners they assign to your building/project.
14. Are the cleaners properly trained in best industry techniques?
Proper training will ensure you get the Gebäudereinigung Göttingen best quality of service for your money. Training is also important to prevent scratches on surfaces, vacuum bumps along walls, and other damage to your property. Ask your cleaning company how often they train and retrain cleaners in the best industry techniques.
15. Ask about their inspection process.
How does your cleaning company ensure the cleaners are continuing to provide you with quality service? It's important that they perform periodic walkthroughs with you, as well as more frequent post-cleaning inspections.
Take the time and care to choose the right cleaning company from the start. Establishing a long term relationship with a reliable cleaning company will not only save you time and money, but also peace of mind.
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