How to Choose the Best Janitorial Company
Have you ever purchased something because of its low price, only to realize later that an important feature was missing?
The same thing can happen when you’re reviewing cleaning proposals. A quote that seems like a bargain may be leaving out key services or details that are essential for properly maintaining your facility.
To make the best decision, it’s important to go beyond the price tag and understand what’s included in the proposal. If a quote is missing one or more of these six essential factors, it could end up costing you more in the long run:
1. Staff Wages
The majority of the cost in any cleaning proposal—typically around 60%—comes from paying the staff who will clean your facility. This depends on:
- The number of hours required to complete the job.
- The hourly pay rate for employees, which is determined by your local market.
Some companies estimate this more accurately than others. The most reliable vendors will take detailed measurements of your space and ask thoughtful questions about your needs.
TIP: Local or regional vendors often have a better understanding of area wage standards compared to national providers, leading to more accurate pricing.
2. Taxes and Employee Benefits
A complete proposal should also account for additional employee-related costs, such as payroll taxes, paid time off, health benefits, uniforms, and any necessary screenings, such as drug tests or background checks. These costs can vary depending on the vendor’s policies and location.
TIP: Vendors that invest in benefits for their employees often have happier, more reliable workers, which can result in better service for your facility.
3. Cleaning Supplies
The cost of cleaning supplies is another key part of any proposal. This includes both durable supplies, like microfiber cloths and scrubbing tools, and consumables, like toilet paper, hand soap, and paper towels. Many vendors include these costs in their base pricing.
TIP: Regional providers often secure discounts on consumable items through wholesale suppliers, allowing them to pass savings on to you while also managing your inventory.
- Equipment
The equipment required to clean your facility, such as vacuums, floor scrubbers, and other tools, should also be factored into the pricing. Vendors typically include equipment depreciation—representing wear and tear—in their quotes.
TIP: Companies that use high-quality or newer equipment often deliver better results and experience fewer interruptions due to breakdowns, which can improve efficiency.
5. Overhead Expenses
Overhead covers the behind-the-scenes costs of operating a business, such as insurance, recruiting, human resources, and administrative tasks like billing. These expenses are generally included as a percentage of the total price.
TIP: Regional vendors typically have lower overhead costs compared to large national companies, which can translate into more competitive pricing for you.
6. Profit Margin
A successful cleaning company must also include a reasonable profit margin in its pricing. Vendors who maintain healthy profits are more likely to provide consistent, high-quality service and remain in business long-term.
TIP: Look for providers with a proven track record, strong references, and several years of experience—they’re more likely to deliver reliable service.
Don’t Be Fooled by a Low Price
If a proposal seems unusually inexpensive, take the time to ask questions about what’s included. A quote that skips over one or more of these important components may result in additional costs or poor service down the road.
