General Building Maintenance Corp.

Whether you are thinkingof changing janitorial companies or deciding to outsource cleaning serviceshere are a few things you should think about before you make either decision.Keep in mind that companies pay higher than average wages to inside cleaningworkers, and spend higher training cost.  Most companies will also payhigher prices on cleaning products and supplies.

Of course you want thebest possible service for the money you will be spending.  To ensure youwill be getting consistent, impressive results without compromising quality youmust examine a janitorial company from the inside out.

First, you should lookfor a company with experience.  A new or small company may not be able tooffer the same services that a larger, well-established company can bring toyour facility.  Seasoned employees and managers with years of experienceare certainly more reliable and efficient.  An experienced janitorialcompany can offer advice and suggestions for improving your facilities healthand appearance. A janitorial company that has been around will more than likelyhave a reputation and references.  Always take the time to call or visitjanitorial company's references.  A company with a good reputation willalmost always be the right company to choose.  Check the Better BusinessBureau to make sure the company is legitimate, if the company has any complaintsagainst them, and if they have a good rating. 

Second, look into ajanitorial company's employees.  Do they use their own employees orsubcontract?  Subcontractors may not be covered by insurance and may notbe getting a fair wage.  Companies using subcontractors may not be coveredby worker's compensation insurance and that means you can be held liable andfinancially responsible if any injury occurs at your facility.  Also, makesure the janitorial company is fully licensed, insured and bonded.  If ajanitorial company is not insured or under insured you may be liable which canend up costing your company an enormous amount in legal and medicalbills.  Another good indicator is when looking at a janitorial companiesemployees are whether or not the company does background and drug tests.

Third, how is thepotential janitorial company's communication?  Do they have an informativewebsite?  Do they offer sufficient contact information?  Are theyavailable to you 24/7?  If the answer is no to any of these questions youmay want to reconsider your options.  You should be able to find outeverything you need to know about the janitorial company from their companywebsite.  Contact information should be listed on their website, on theirbusiness card, brochure and contract or bid.  If you don't have sufficientcontact information how will you reach them should an emergency arise?  Areliable janitorial company should be available to you not only during businesshours but also after hours and on weekends.  Not all of your janitorialneeds can be accommodated during regular business hours. 

Fourth, when collectingprice quotes there are a few things you should keep in mind.  Are thepotential janitorial companies willing to make an on-site visit?  Youshould never consider a company that is not willing to come to you and providea free quote.  Companies that do not make on-site visits usually pricesbased on square footage and often overcharge. Plus do you really want to use a company too apathetic to visit yourfacility?  Another important aspect of the price quote is the terms of thecontract.  Janitorial companies should offer you no more than 30 daysnotice in order to cancel a contract and there should be no extra cost if thecontract is broken.  A contract should not be difficult to read andunderstand. 

Finally,every facility has different janitorial needs.  Evaluate your company'sindividual needs and select a janitorial company that offers all the servicesyou require at an honest, reasonable price.