What to Look for in a Commercial Cleaning Company

There are tons of benefits of hiring commercial cleaning services. They get your workspaces cleaned, help increase productivity, and impress your stakeholders. But you want to ensure you choose the right professional cleaning service that gets the cleaning done with professionalism and safety.

So, you wonder, “What to look for in a commercial cleaning company.” What questions to ask when hiring a cleaning service for your workspace? Well, examine essential “criteria” such as licensing, equipment, and adaptability. Opt for companies excelling in “professional cleaning” practices and using eco-friendly products. Read on to find out more

What to Look for When Hiring a Cleaning Service for Workspaces & Buildings

Now let us talk about the important things to consider when hiring a cleaner for workspaces and commercial buildings. This guide also highlights what questions to ask when hiring a cleaning service for your commercial building or office. 

1. Level of Experience and Employee Training  

Experience matters, but training is what keeps standards high. A commercial cleaning company with years in the field might look great on paper. But if their teams aren’t receiving regular updates on the latest techniques and safety protocols, that experience can fall flat. 

Training boosts employee accountability and ensures your space is consistently cleaned to a professional level. Ask how often training is provided, who delivers it, and how long the company has been operating.

• How often do employees get training on updated cleaning techniques, equipment, or safety practices?
• Is the training done internally or by certified third parties?
• Are employees trained specifically for the type of facility you operate (For example, medical, educational, corporate)?
• Do new hires go through formal onboarding and shadowing?

The good news is that we convert your messy offices into spotless workspaces. H&M Maid has all the right qualities of a commercial cleaner in Toronto based on expertise, reliability, and customer reviews. Speak to our cleaning specialist to learn more about our custom cleaning plans.

2. Flexibility and Scheduling Availability  

Your office has a rhythm, cleaning shouldn’t disrupt it. Whether you need cleaning after hours or have strict blackout times, your cleaning partner should work around your business schedule. Emergencies pop up, too. 

So, ask about after-hours support, availability during weekends, and whether they assign a consistent point of contact for urgent needs. The more flexible they are, the less you’ll have to worry. Ask yourself these questions when hiring a cleaning service for your office:

• Can they schedule cleanings outside of your office hours or during low-traffic times?
• Are they available for after-hours or emergency cleanups (For example, spills, weather damage)?
• Do they offer recurring scheduling options, and can they pivot if your needs shift (like during busy seasons)?
• Will the same team clean your space consistently, or will it rotate?

3. Types of Commercial Cleaning Services and Custom Plans  

Not every workspace needs the same level of cleaning. Some buildings need simple, daily upkeep. Others require deep cleans, carpet extraction, or power washing after big events. 

A good cleaning company won’t force you into a rigid package, they’ll build one that fits your needs. Ask yourself these questions to confirm if you are hiring the right commercial cleaning company.

• Do they offer custom commercial cleaning plans, not just pre-set packages?
• Can they handle specialty services like carpet extraction, upholstery care, or high-touch disinfection?
• Are these extras included, or billed separately?
• How do they approach fluctuating needs (For example, event prep or post-construction cleanup)?

4. Commercial Facilities They Serve  

Not every cleaning team knows how to handle every environment. Offices, medical clinics, industrial spaces, each one has its own set of standards and requirements. That’s why it’s smart to ask if a company has experience cleaning facilities like yours. 

Also, get references. A cleaner who’s worked in similar industries is more likely to know the right products, methods, and compliance needs.

• Have they worked with businesses like yours before, by industry, square footage, or traffic volume?
• Can they name specific client examples or provide contactable references in your sector?
• Are their crews trained in industry-specific protocols (like Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations)

5. Clear Communication and Accountability  

You need more than a cleaning crew, you need a team that communicates. Clear expectations, fast response times, and a single point of contact make the process smooth.. 

Also, ask about their quality checks and how often they check in to ensure satisfaction. A cleaning company that values communication usually provides better, more consistent results.

• Do you get one dedicated point of contact for all communication?
• Are they reachable outside normal hours for emergencies or issues?
• Is there a formal process for reporting problems or requesting special services?
• How do they track and ensure quality? (For example, supervisor walkthroughs, customer feedback loops)

6. Compliance with Safety and Industry Standards  

Commercial cleaning involves chemicals, equipment, and privacy concerns. That’s why it’s critical the company you hire follows standards set by OSHA and PHAC. If they clean healthcare facilities, make sure they know HIPAA. And don’t overlook the basics: they should be licensed, bonded, and insured to protect your business from liability.

• Are they compliant with PHAC (if in Canada) and any other relevant agencies?
• Are they familiar with HIPAA protocols if they serve healthcare-related spaces?
• Do they follow written safety procedures and protocols?
• Can they share a copy of their safety or compliance manual?
• Are their employees trained in emergency response or spill control procedures?

7. Commercial Cleaning Tools, Equipment, and Green Options  

Outsourcing means bringing in expertise, and that includes the gear. Look for companies that use commercial-grade, quiet, and efficient equipment. If your business requires eco-friendly or low-allergen products, make sure those are part of their offerings.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do they bring their own equipment, and if so, what type (For example, low-noise vacuums, HEPA filters, etc.)?
• Are their commercial cleaning products certified eco-friendly or low-toxicity?
• Do they follow protocols for high-touch surface disinfection or cross-contamination prevention?
• Can they process requests for scent-free or hypoallergenic products?

8. Reputation and Client Feedback

Online reviews offer a peek into how a company really operates. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the BBB. Don’t stop there, ask for client references and speak with real people about reliability and professionalism. Companies with a strong track record and industry awards typically deliver higher standards and fewer surprises.

• Do they have consistently strong reviews on Google, Yelp, or BBB?
• Are any complaints recent or recurring (For example, missed cleanings, billing issues)?
• Can they provide 2–3 recent client references, ideally in your industry?
• Have they received any industry certifications, local business awards, or recognitions?

9. Hiring Policies and Employee Screening  

Cleaners will have access to sensitive areas, so vetting their hiring practices is a must. Ask if they perform drug tests and criminal background checks. 

Also find out how they monitor staff performance and whether they prohibit smoking on your property. The best cleaning services invest in their people and that protects your space.

• Are employees drug-tested and background-checked before hire?
• Do you evaluate team members regularly for performance?
• Are commercial cleaners trained in conduct standards (For example, no smoking, phone use, or distractions on-site)?
• Are professional cleaners full-time employees or subcontractors?

10. Licensing, Insurance, and Pricing Transparency  

Unexpected accidents can be costly. That’s why licensing and insurance aren’t optional, they’re essential. Ask for proof of insurance and licensing. And when it comes to pricing, don’t settle for vague numbers. Ask for detailed quotes with clear scope of work, billing frequency, and any additional fees. A company that’s upfront about costs is more likely to be professional in every other area too.

• Are they properly licensed and registered in Canada (or any other country)?
• Can they provide proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance?
• Will they provide a detailed quote with frequency, scope, and terms clearly outlined?
• Are there overtime, cancellation, or add-on fees?

FAQs: What to Look for in a Commercial Cleaning Company

1. When to Hire a Commercial Cleaning Service?

​​Daily cleaning matters in busy offices. Foot traffic increases dirt and germs. Signs like odd smells or visible grime mean it’s time you need to hire a commercial cleaning service. Dirty carpets and neglected restrooms need extra care. Overflowing bins and cluttered spaces demand attention too. A commercial cleaning service tackles these problems.

2. Is Hiring a Cleaner Worth It for Offices and Commercial Buildings?

Yes, hiring professional cleaners for your business is worth it because they keep your workplace clean, healthy, and welcoming. And this helps employees work better and take fewer sick days. Best of all; it also helps your furniture and equipment last longer. Compared to having your own cleaning staff, it’s cheaper and saves time. These services can work around your schedule and meet your cleaning needs.

3. How Often Should You Hire a Cleaner for Workspaces and Buildings?

We believe you should hire a cleaner at least once a week to maintain general areas such as reception desks, hallways, break rooms, and conference rooms. And less frequently used areas, like basements or storage rooms, can be cleaned on a monthly basis. Also, you should consider deep cleaning carpets and floors once a month.

Hire the Top Commercial Cleaning Company in Toronto

H&M Maid ticks all the things to consider when hiring a cleaner for workspaces and commercial buildings. Experience top-tier commercial cleaning services in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Schedule your cleaning appointment now and enjoy a spotless, stress-free work environment.

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