Before working in the janitorial world, I managed a medical office. My days were packed—coordinating schedules, managing staff, keeping budgets balanced, and making sure patients were happy. Cleaning wasn’t something I wanted to think about. I just wanted to walk into a tidy, well-stocked building and know everything was taken care of.
Back then, I figured hiring a cleaning company was straightforward. Get three quotes, call a few references, and pick the company that seemed dependable and affordable. I learned later that choosing the right vendor isn’t just about price—it’s about understanding how they operate. The questions you ask up front can make all the difference between a smooth partnership and daily frustrations.
Here are four questions I wish I had asked much sooner.
1. Who’s making sure the job gets done right?
I assumed someone was regularly checking the quality of the cleaning—but I never verified it. Consistent inspections and field visits are what keep things on track. Without active supervision, small issues can turn into big complaints before anyone even notices.
2. How do you prepare and train your cleaners?
Employee turnover is common in the cleaning industry, but that doesn’t have to mean inconsistency. I never thought to ask what kind of onboarding process new team members went through. Companies with structured, hands-on training deliver more reliable results because every cleaner knows exactly what’s expected from day one.
3. What happens when there’s a problem?
Mistakes are inevitable—it’s how a company handles them that shows their true quality. Do they respond quickly? Keep you informed? Fix the issue without defensiveness or delay? I eventually learned that clear communication and accountability are just as important as the actual cleaning work.
4. What should we tell you about our facility?
The best janitorial partners ask good questions. They want to understand your schedule, building layout, and high-traffic areas before they start. I used to think that information didn’t matter much—but it’s what allows them to tailor their service so it truly fits your needs.
Looking back, I realize I wasn’t just buying a cleaning service—I was buying peace of mind. A good janitorial company doesn’t just clean floors and empty trash cans; it gives managers the confidence that those details are handled, every day, without extra effort or worry. When that happens, you’re free to focus on the bigger picture: keeping your business running smoothly.
