Starting an Office Cleaning Business: Practical Guide

Thinking About Starting an Office Cleaning Business?

Picture this. The office is empty. The phones are quiet. You walk through a calm building, turn on a few lights, and start bringing the place back to order. By morning, everything is clean, stocked, and ready for another workday.

If that scene sounds appealing, an office cleaning business might be a strong fit. But before you start buying vacuums and printing business cards, step back and look at the bigger picture of owning a business, not just doing the work.

Running a business changes everything. You trade a regular paycheck for risk. You become the person who solves problems, deals with complaints, and makes the tough calls. That can be rewarding when this is the right path for you.

Is This the Right Business for You?

One of the most important steps is deciding whether owning any business is right for you, and then whether office cleaning is the right choice. It is easier to decide now than after you have spent time and money getting started.

Start by looking at your motivation. Are you moving toward something you want, or only trying to escape a job you dislike? That difference matters when things get hard, and they will at some point.

It helps to work through the questions in Points to Consider Before Starting Your Business. Use that as a reality check about commitment, risk, and responsibilities.

Are you ready to trade a steady income for uncertainty, at least for a while?
Can you take responsibility for every result, good or bad?
Are you willing to work long hours, handle unpleasant tasks, and keep going when you are tired?
Is your family on board with your plans and the sacrifices that may come with them?
Do you have access to the money you need to start and operate, or a plan to get it?

Why Passion Still Matters in a Practical Business

Office cleaning looks straightforward, but it still demands energy and care. There will be late nights, demanding clients, and detailed work that must be done right every time. Passion helps you push through those moments.

Passion in this context does not mean you love mopping floors. It means you care about running a reliable service, building a reputation, and creating a business that supports your life. Without that drive, it is easy to quit when problems stack up.

To go deeper, have a look at How Passion Affects Your Business. Use it to decide if this is something you truly want to build, not just something you are doing because you need income right now.

If you lost your main client, would you look for solutions or look for the exit?
Does the idea of building a small, professional service company interest you?
Are you prepared for slow periods, training, and constant improvement?

Get an Inside Look Before You Commit

You can avoid a lot of trial and error by talking to people who already work in office cleaning or commercial janitorial services. A short, honest conversation can save you months of guesswork.

Instead of asking general questions, focus on what you truly need to know: the hard parts, the profitable services, and the biggest surprises they faced. Many owners are willing to share if you approach them with respect and clear questions.

Use the guide at How to find Critical Information from the right people about the business you’re planning to start. It shows you how to contact the right people and what to ask for an honest inside look.

Ask what a typical night or early morning looks like in their business.
Ask which services bring the most profit and which feel like more trouble than they are worth.
Ask what they would do differently if they were starting again today.

What an Office Cleaning Business Actually Does

Before you plan your company, get clear about the services you will offer. Office cleaning is more than emptying a few trash cans. Clients expect a clean, safe, and professional environment for their staff and visitors.

You can design a simple starter service list and then add specialized options as you grow. The right mix will depend on local demand, your skills, and your equipment.

Start with a core package, then add optional services you can quote as upgrades or occasional work.

Core recurring services: general office areas, restrooms, and breakrooms or kitchens.
Empty and reline trash and recycling containers.
Dust desks and surfaces as allowed by client policy.
Vacuum carpets and rugs; sweep and mop hard floors.
Clean and disinfect restrooms, including toilets, sinks, counters, and fixtures.
Clean breakroom counters, tables, sinks, and appliance exteriors.
Wipe interior glass on entry doors and partitions; spot-clean walls and doors.
Sanitize high-touch surfaces like switches, door handles, and railings.

Optional and periodic services: offered as separate quotes.
Carpet spot cleaning and deep carpet extraction.
Floor stripping, sealing, waxing, and polishing.
Interior and some exterior window cleaning where safe.
Deep cleaning of restrooms and kitchens.
Post-construction or post-renovation cleaning for office spaces.
Targeted disinfection services during illness seasons or as requested.

Who Your Customers Are

Office cleaning focuses on nonresidential clients. The more clearly you define your ideal customer, the easier it is to build offers, pricing, and marketing that fit.

You do not need to serve everyone. You can start with a narrow group of office clients and add other types later if it makes sense.

Think about the buildings and office environments around you and how they operate.

Single-tenant and multi-tenant office buildings managed by property firms.
Professional offices such as law, accounting, insurance, and consulting firms.
Medical and dental offices, when you are ready to learn their extra requirements.
Corporate offices, call centers, and administrative facilities.
Co-working and shared office spaces that need frequent service.

Contract types you might see:
Monthly recurring service agreements with a single business.
Contracts through property management companies that control several buildings.
Subcontracting for larger janitorial companies that need extra help.

Pros and Cons of an Office Cleaning Business

Every business idea has strong points and weak points. You want to see both clearly before you commit. That makes it easier to design a plan that fits your goals and limits your risk.

Office cleaning can be flexible and scalable, but it is demanding. The work is physical and often done when other people are at home and resting.

Use this list as a quick check before you move on to planning.

Pros:
You can start small as an owner-operator and grow as you gain clients.
Most office accounts are recurring, so revenue can be more predictable once contracts are in place.
Formal education requirements for the cleaning work are low.
There is broad demand because many businesses outsource their office cleaning.

Cons:
The work is physical and can be hard on your body over time.
Most work is in the evening, at night, or very early morning.
You face risk from chemical use, slips and falls, and property damage.
Competition can be strong, from small independents to national chains.

Understand Demand, Competition, and Profit Potential

Next, you want to know if there is enough demand and enough room for you to earn a profit. You are looking for proof that businesses in your area pay for office cleaning and that they are not all locked into long-term contracts you cannot touch.

This does not require a complicated study. You simply need clear signs that real clients are buying what you plan to offer at prices that can cover your costs and pay you a fair income.

Use the ideas in Supply and Demand to think through these points.

Count how many office buildings, professional suites, and shared workspaces are in your target area.
Look for cleaning companies already serving those buildings and what they advertise.
Ask potential clients about their current contracts, pain points, and renewal dates.
Rough in your costs so you can see if typical contracts leave enough room to pay you, cover expenses, and still profit.

Choose Your Business Model and Role

Your business model sets the foundation for how you work and how fast you can grow. Take time to decide what fits your skills, finances, and risk tolerance.

There is no single right answer. You can start alone and stay small, or you can plan from day one to build a team and handle several buildings.

Think about ownership, staffing, and how hands-on you want to be with the cleaning work.

Will you start as a solo cleaner, doing all the work yourself to learn the business?
Will you partner with someone who brings money, experience, or access to clients?
Will you hire employees right away, or wait until your schedule is full?
Are you open to investors, or do you prefer to keep full control and grow step by step?

Remember you do not have to be good at everything.
You can learn skills over time or use the guidance in How and When to Hire to bring in people who are stronger in areas you would rather not handle.

Essential Equipment and Supplies You Will Need

Before you can quote jobs, you need a clear list of equipment and supplies. The exact brands and levels of gear will depend on your budget and the size of contracts you target, but the categories are similar for most office cleaning businesses.

Build your list first, then price each item. That way, you see your startup costs instead of guessing. A detailed list also makes it easier to compare suppliers.

Below is a structured list of typical equipment and supplies for an office cleaning startup.

Basic cleaning tools and equipment
Commercial upright vacuum cleaners.
Backpack vacuums for cubicle areas and tight spaces.
Wet/dry vacuum for spills and heavier cleaning tasks.
Dust mops and flat mops with handles and frames.
Microfiber cleaning cloths, color-coded by task or area.
High dusters and extension poles for vents and ledges.
Brooms and dustpans.
Mop buckets with wringers.
Cleaning carts with shelves and secure space for chemicals.
Step ladders rated for commercial use.

Floor and carpet care equipment
Floor machine (low-speed) for scrubbing and stripping floors.
High-speed burnisher for polishing finished floors.
Walk-behind auto scrubber for larger hard floor areas, if needed.
Portable carpet extractor for deep cleaning.
Wet floor signs and caution cones.
Floor pads and brushes for different floor types.

Restroom and breakroom cleaning tools
Toilet and urinal brushes.
Grout brushes and detail brushes.
Restroom-only mops and buckets (use separate colors).
Spray bottles for cleaners and disinfectants with proper labels.
Spare dispensers and replacement parts if clients expect you to provide them.

Surface and glass cleaning tools
Window squeegees, washers, and small extension poles.
Soft, lint-free cloths for glass and mirrors.
Non-scratch pads and sponges for various surfaces.

Waste handling
Trash can liners in multiple sizes and thicknesses.
Recycling liners in distinct colors.
Containers or carts to move waste to client dumpsters safely.

Chemicals and cleaning agents
Neutral floor cleaner for routine mopping.
Heavy-duty cleaner or degreaser for breakrooms and tougher soils.
Disinfectants suited to restrooms and high-touch surfaces.
Toilet bowl and urinal cleaners.
Glass and multi-surface cleaners.
Carpet spotters and extraction detergents.
Floor finish and floor stripper if you plan to offer floor care.
Stainless steel cleaner for elevators and fixtures as needed.

Safety and personal protective equipment
Chemical-resistant gloves.
Safety glasses or goggles.
Masks or respirators as required by product labels and local rules.
Slip-resistant, closed-toe footwear.
Protective aprons or coveralls for heavier work.
First aid kit and basic safety supplies.
Labels and binders for Safety Data Sheets for every chemical you use.

Transportation and storage
Service vehicle with room for equipment and locked storage for chemicals.
Shelving units and lockable cabinets for supplies at your base.
Key safe or key log system for managing client keys and access cards.

Software and Tools to Consider

Software does not have to be complex, but it should support your work instead of adding stress. Start simple and add tools as your workload grows.

Think about how you will schedule jobs, track time, send invoices, and keep records. These systems are easier to set up before you get busy.

Here are common types of software to review before launch.

Scheduling software to plan recurring visits and track special jobs.
Basic accounting or bookkeeping software to record income and expenses.
Invoicing and payment tools so clients can pay you on time.
Customer and contact tracking so you remember key details and contract terms.
Document storage for contracts, checklists, and safety information.

Estimate Your Startup Costs

Once your equipment and software lists are clear, you can estimate your startup costs. Your total will depend on the size of your operation and the level of equipment you choose, but the categories are similar for most new office cleaning businesses.

Do not guess. Take time to look up actual prices. That way you can see if your plan matches your budget or if you need to scale up or scale down at the start.

The article on Estimating Startup Costs can guide you through this process step by step.

Legal setup, registration fees, and any licenses.
Insurance costs and deposits.
Equipment purchases or leases.
Initial supply of chemicals, liners, paper products, and small tools.
Vehicle purchase, lease, or preparation if you already own one.
Branding items like website, business cards, and logo design.
First marketing activities and any advertising you plan to run.
Cash reserve for a few months of fuel, supplies, and other operating costs.

Choose Your Location and Storage Setup

Many office cleaning businesses start from home with a small storage area, as long as local rules allow it. Others lease a small warehouse or office for storage, especially once they have more staff and larger equipment.

Location matters for more than rent. You need a place that lets you store chemicals safely, load equipment into vehicles, and reach your clients without wasting time driving.

Use Choosing a Business Location to think through the trade-offs.

Check zoning and home-occupation rules before storing equipment and chemicals at home.
Look for a small commercial space with enough room for shelves, a sink, and secure storage if home use is not allowed or not practical.
Consider travel time from your base to your main cluster of clients.
Plan for safe loading areas, parking, and basic security.

Choose a Business Name, Brand, and Online Presence

Your business name and brand will appear on contracts, invoices, and vehicles. They should sound professional and be easy to remember. Check that your preferred name is not already in use locally.

Once you have a working name, look for a matching domain and social media handles. Even a simple online presence helps potential clients feel confident when they search for you.

Think of your brand as the package that presents your business to the world.

Brainstorm names that signal reliability and professionalism.
Check name availability with your state and local offices.
Secure a domain and create a basic website using How to Build a Website for guidance.
Design a simple logo and use the ideas in Corporate Identity Package to keep your look consistent.
Set up Business Cards and, if needed, a Business Sign at your base or office.

Handle Registrations, Licenses, and Risk

Legal and compliance steps can feel heavy, but you do not have to figure them out alone. Your goal is to operate in line with local rules and to protect yourself, your clients, and your staff.

Many small office cleaning businesses start as sole proprietorships by default and later form a limited liability company as they grow. The right choice depends on your risk level and future plans.

For a clear overview, see How to Register a Business and talk with a professional if you are unsure.

Choose a legal structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company, or corporation) and register it with your state where required.
Apply for an Employer Identification Number through the Internal Revenue Service if you need one.
Check with your state revenue department to see if cleaning services are taxable where you live.
Look into local business licenses for your city or county.
Confirm zoning, any home-based business rules, and whether you need a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) for a commercial space.
Speak with an insurance professional and review Business Insurance to discuss general liability, equipment coverage, and other relevant coverage.

If you feel uncertain, you can work with an accountant, attorney, or advisor. The guide on Building a Team of Professional Advisors explains how to put that group together.

Create Your Business Plan and Financial Setup

A written plan does not need to be complex, but it should be clear. Think of it as your practical guide for the first year. It helps you focus and gives structure when things feel busy.

You can use How to Write a Business Plan as a template. Even if you never show the plan to anyone else, it is worth doing for your own clarity.

At the same time, you will want to set up your financial base so money in and money out is easy to track.

Describe your target clients, services, and service area.
Outline your startup costs and expected ongoing expenses.
Estimate your monthly revenue based on realistic contract sizes.
Plan how many hours you can work and how many accounts you can handle.
Open a business bank account separate from your personal account.
Set up bookkeeping, even if it is simple software at first.
If you need outside money, review How to Get a Business Loan before you apply.

Set Your Prices, Packages, and Policies

Pricing is a key startup decision. You need rates that cover labor, supplies, travel, and overhead, while still staying competitive. Many office cleaning companies charge by the job based on size, scope, and frequency.

When you are new, it is easy to undercharge. Take your time and base your numbers on real estimates of time and cost, not guesses or what you think clients want to hear.

The guide on Pricing Your Products and Services can help you build a simple pricing system.

Define base services included in every routine cleaning visit.
List add-on services you will price separately, like floor care or carpet extraction.
Estimate how long each service takes at different office sizes.
Include travel time, supply use, and a margin for profit.
Write clear service descriptions so clients know what is and is not included.

Plan Your Physical Setup, Routes, and Storage

Even though clients may never see your base, it still matters. A tidy, safe storage area helps you work faster and reduces risk. It also makes it easier to train others later.

Think about how you will load vehicles, store chemicals, and keep your schedule efficient. Good planning here saves hours of time every week.

Start by planning your setup on paper, then adjust as you gather real experience.

Assign shelves for chemicals, paper products, liners, and tools.
Store chemicals in line with safety data sheets and local rules.
Set up a place to clean and maintain equipment.
Group client locations into logical service routes to save fuel and time.

Prepare Your Marketing and First Clients

You do not need a huge marketing campaign, but you do need a simple plan for how people will find you and why they should consider your service. Many office cleaning clients come through referrals and direct contact with property managers.

Think about how you will explain what you do, why you are reliable, and how to contact you. Then decide on a few simple marketing actions you can stick with.

The guides on Create a Marketing Plan and How to Get Customers Through the Door can give you a clear structure.

Build a basic website with your services, service area, and contact information.
Create a short company profile and a simple capabilities statement for property managers.
Set up business profiles on major online platforms where local businesses search for services.
Visit office buildings in your target area and introduce yourself to management.
Ask early clients for testimonials once you have completed work for them.
If you want a small launch event or promotion, see Grand Opening Ideas for ways to create a simple launch push.

Build Your Team and Support Network

Even if you start alone, you will not stay alone for long if your business grows. Eventually you may need cleaners, bookkeepers, or specialists to handle work you do not enjoy or do not do well.

You can prepare for that now by thinking about the roles you want to fill yourself and the roles you might delegate in the future. You do not have to become an expert at everything to run a sound business.

Use How and When to Hire and Building a Team of Professional Advisors as you plan.

Decide which tasks you will own, such as client contact or bidding.
List tasks you can later hand off, such as bookkeeping or routine cleaning on certain routes.
Build relationships with an accountant, insurance agent, and attorney before you need them.
Look ahead to training and safety practices for future employees.

Pre-Launch Checklist for Your Office Cleaning Business

Before you accept your first contract, work through a simple checklist. This keeps you from forgetting small but important pieces and helps you start with confidence.

You do not have to be perfect, but you want to be prepared. A little organizing now can prevent costly mistakes later.

Review your plans with the help of Avoid These Mistakes When Starting a Small Business to catch anything you missed.

You have confirmed that this business and lifestyle fit your goals and your family.
You have spoken with at least a few people already in the industry.
You have defined your core services, add-ons, and ideal clients.
You have a complete equipment and supply list and have priced each item.
You have estimated your startup and early operating costs.
You have chosen a legal structure and completed required registrations.
You have spoken with an insurance professional about coverage for your situation.
You have opened a business bank account and set up simple bookkeeping.
You have created a basic website, business cards, and simple marketing materials.
You have written a short business plan and know your first steps to find clients.
You have tested your cleaning checklists in at least one real office, if possible.

When you can check off most of this list, you are in a strong position to launch, learn, and improve as you go.

101 Tips for Running Your Office Cleaning Business

Running an office cleaning business is about far more than mops and vacuums. It is about systems, safety, communication, and long-term relationships with clients who trust you with their buildings after hours.

These 101 tips give you practical guidance you can apply whether you are still planning your company or already serving your first offices.

Use them to build a business that is steady, safe, and respected in your local market.

What to Do Before Starting

Clarify why you want to own an office cleaning business and make sure you are comfortable with evening and night work, since many offices are cleaned after normal business hours.
Spend at least a few nights shadowing another cleaning crew or working part-time in the field so you can see the real physical demands and pace of the work.
Assess your physical stamina and lifting ability honestly, because janitors and building cleaners spend long periods standing, bending, and moving equipment.
Decide which types of office spaces you want to serve first, such as professional suites or call centers, and make sure they exist in good numbers within a reasonable drive.
Talk with a few property managers and office administrators to ask how they handle cleaning now and what they wish their vendors did better, so you can spot real gaps in your market.
Decide early whether you will focus only on general offices or later add higher-risk environments such as medical offices that have stricter cleaning and disinfection standards.
Make a list of all startup needs, including equipment, initial supplies, insurance, and basic registrations, then gather real quotes so you start with realistic cost expectations.
Meet with an insurance professional who understands cleaning companies so you know what level of liability and other coverage is common in your area.
Discuss business structure and taxes with an accountant or advisor so you can choose a setup that fits your risk level and growth plans from the beginning.
Build a first-year budget that includes slower months, equipment repairs, and a cash buffer, instead of assuming every month will be fully booked.

What Successful Office Cleaning Business Owners Do

Use written cleaning checklists for each type of area, such as restrooms, lobbies, and cubicles, so every crew member knows exactly what “finished” looks like.
Invest consistently in training on cleaning methods, equipment use, and safety so crews can work faster without sacrificing quality or health.
Track how long each job actually takes and adjust bids, staffing, and routes based on real numbers instead of guessing.
Build strong relationships with a small group of reliable suppliers so you have support when equipment fails or national supply chains tighten.
Walk buildings regularly to spot issues before the client does and to verify that standards are being met every night.
Watch a few basic performance numbers such as revenue, labor hours, call-backs, and add-on work so they can react early to problems and opportunities.
Document every routine that works well and treat it as a standard operating procedure so new staff can learn it quickly.
Network with facility managers, property managers, and local business owners because many contracts come through these long-term relationships.
Protect their reputation by responding quickly and professionally to any complaint, then following up to confirm the fix worked.
Keep their safety program current with Occupational Safety and Health Administration and health guidance so they stay compliant and protect workers.

Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)

Create zone-based checklists for every client so crews know the exact sequence for restrooms, offices, breakrooms, and lobbies in that building.
Define which tasks are daily, weekly, or monthly, and tie those schedules to high-touch and high-traffic patterns inside the building.{index=10}
Use color-coded cloths, mops, and buckets to keep restroom tools separate from office and kitchen tools and reduce cross-contamination risk.
Train staff to measure, dilute, and label chemicals correctly and to store Safety Data Sheets where workers can easily see them.
Require personal protective equipment such as gloves and eye protection when using chemicals, and demonstrate the correct way to put it on, remove it, and dispose of it.
Build schedules around each client’s security rules, including when they allow access and how alarms and key cards must be handled.
Set up a simple incident report process so staff can log spills, damage, or near misses and you can review them and prevent repeat problems.
Follow manufacturer instructions and safety guidance when maintaining vacuums, scrubbers, and extractors so they stay efficient and safe to use.
Keep a central inventory list that tracks how quickly you use chemicals, liners, and paper goods so you can reorder before you run short.
Use timekeeping tools at each site so you can verify that crews are spending enough time to deliver the level of service you sold.
Create a structured onboarding plan for new staff that covers safety, cleaning standards, client rules, and your expectations in the first week.
Give each job a short, written site profile that lists special instructions, priority areas, and contact information for building staff.
Plan nightly routes to reduce driving time while still matching building access times and security needs.
Write specific procedures for handling body fluids or other potentially infectious material, and provide appropriate personal protective equipment and cleaning products.
Teach the difference between routine cleaning to remove dirt and disinfection to kill germs, and state clearly when each step is required.
Assign a working lead or supervisor to each crew who is responsible for final walkthroughs and quality before leaving a building.
Use simple check-in and check-out procedures, especially for staff working alone at night, to keep track of their safety and location.
Standardize how staff lock up, reset alarms, and handle lost or damaged keys so nothing is left to chance.
Encourage staff to stretch and take short breaks on longer shifts to reduce strain from repetitive motions and awkward postures.
Review all standard operating procedures at least once a year and update them based on client feedback, safety updates, and lessons learned.

What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)

Expect much of your work to happen in the evening or at night, which affects staffing, supervision, and your own schedule.
Recognize that common risks in cleaning include chemical exposure, slippery floors, lifting injuries, and working in nearly empty buildings.
Use Occupational Safety and Health Administration resources specific to the cleaning industry as a backbone for your safety training and written policies.
Understand that office cleaning demand is often steady, but losing or gaining a single large contract can change your schedule and revenue quickly.
Watch how flu seasons and other illness waves change client expectations for high-touch surface cleaning and disinfection frequency.
Follow Environmental Protection Agency guidance and product labels when you use disinfectants or specialized cleaners, and never improvise mixtures.
Keep an eye on the availability of key items such as gloves, masks, and disinfectants so you can adjust purchasing before shortages impact your service.
Remember that rules for chemical storage, hazardous waste, and wastewater disposal can change from state to state and city to city, so you must confirm requirements
Learn about cleaning industry standards and certifications, such as those promoted by ISSA, so you know what high-performing companies are measured against.
Review labor statistics for janitors and building cleaners so you understand job growth, wage levels, and competition for staff in your region.

Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)

Position your company as a specialist in offices, and show how your routines help keep spaces orderly and reduce disruptions for staff.
Share short stories about problems you solved, such as improving restroom cleanliness or reducing complaints after you took over a site.
Make it easy to contact you by listing a phone number, email, and simple quote request form, and answer every inquiry promptly.
Use your website to describe your cleaning process in plain language, including how you treat offices, restrooms, and breakrooms.
Highlight your training and safety program in marketing materials so prospects see that you invest in your people and manage risk carefully.{index=31}
Ask satisfied clients if they are willing to provide a short testimonial you can use in proposals and on your website.
Join local business associations, property management groups, or chambers of commerce where decision makers meet and share referrals.
Offer free building walkthroughs so you can see conditions first-hand and develop a quote that feels tailored, not generic.
Build a small menu of service packages based on frequency and scope so prospects can quickly see options that fit their building and budget.
Follow up with prospects who requested quotes but have not responded, since many are simply overloaded, not uninterested.
Teach prospects the practical difference between cleaning and disinfection so they understand why you recommend certain frequencies and products.
Explain in your background materials that you select safer cleaning products when possible, following Environmental Protection Agency Safer Choice and similar programs.
Keep business listings and profiles accurate with current services, office hours, and service areas so you do not miss inquiries.
Track which marketing actions bring real clients, not just clicks or conversations, and focus on those channels first.
Develop long-term relationships with a core group of facility managers and property managers instead of constantly chasing one-off jobs.

Dealing with Customers (Trust, Education, Retention)

Set clear expectations in writing before work begins, including which areas are included, how often they are cleaned, and what is outside the scope.
Walk each site with the client at the start and agree on “no touch” areas to avoid disturbing sensitive equipment or personal items.
Explain your chemical handling, safety practices, and personal protective equipment standards in simple terms so clients understand how you protect staff and building
Provide contact details for more than one person in your company so clients always have someone to reach if a concern arises.
Schedule regular check-ins, such as quarterly meetings or calls, to ask how things are going and to discuss upcoming changes in the building.
Use short, structured surveys or scorecards to gather feedback on quality, reliability, and communication, and compare results across clients.
Make it easy for clients to request extra services such as carpet extraction or floor work and provide clear prices before you begin.
When a client raises a problem, thank them for pointing it out, correct it quickly, and describe what you changed to keep it from happening again.
Keep basic notes on each client’s preferences, such as fragrance levels or preferred products, so any crew member can honor them.
Be open about what you can achieve within a fixed budget and time frame, instead of promising results you cannot sustain.

Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback)

Create a simple satisfaction guarantee that explains what steps you will take if a client is not happy with a cleaning visit.
Set specific targets for how fast you will respond to service issues or emergencies, and track whether you meet those targets.
Assign a primary contact person for each client so they always know who to reach with questions or requests.
Train staff to listen calmly when someone complains onsite, fix what they can immediately, and then report the situation to you before the end of the shift.
Use a central log for complaints, rework, and incidents so you can see patterns and address root causes instead of repeating quick fixes.
Notify clients in advance if staff changes, schedule changes, or route changes will affect their building.
After resolving a complaint, follow up to confirm the client is satisfied and note any new preferences in their file.
Review customer feedback regularly and use it to guide updates to your training, checklists, and service standards.

Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term)

Choose cleaning products that meet Environmental Protection Agency Safer Choice or similar standards when they perform well for the task, to reduce risk to workers and building occupants.
Use proper dilution systems or measured concentrates so you do not use more chemical than needed, which lowers exposure and reduces what goes down the drain.
Standardize on washable microfiber cloths and mop heads, which can improve cleaning performance and reduce use of disposable products when used correctly.
Train staff to follow each building’s waste and recycling rules so you support your clients’ environmental goals instead of working against them.
Stick to regular maintenance for equipment so machines last longer and consume less energy over their lifespan.
Explain your sustainability choices to clients who are working on their own environmental or health targets so they see how your service supports their goals.

Staying Informed (Trends, Sources, Cadence)

Follow at least one major cleaning industry association or training provider, such as ISSA, to stay informed about new tools, methods, and standards.
Check Occupational Safety and Health Administration and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health guidance a few times a year for updates on chemical safety
Review Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance when outbreaks or new illnesses affect how clients expect you to clean and disinfect their offices.
Monitor Bureau of Labor Statistics reports for building cleaning occupations so you understand wage trends and hiring conditions before they affect your staffing.

Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)

Build flexibility into your staffing plans so you can add shifts during peak illness seasons and adjust schedules as risk levels change
Write simple contingency plans for staff shortages, supply disruptions, or building access changes so you can respond quickly instead of improvising under pressure.
Test new equipment, tools, or software on a small scale first to confirm they truly save time or improve quality before you commit to larger purchases.
Reduce risk from the loss of any single large client by building a portfolio of accounts of different sizes and sectors over time.
After any major disruption, such as an outbreak or supply shock, meet with your team to review what worked, what failed, and what you will change going forward.

What Not to Do

Do not skip safety training or ignore personal protective equipment rules to save a few minutes, because accidents and exposures can cause serious harm to workers and your business.
Do not treat disinfectants as general-purpose cleaners or use them more often than needed, because they must be applied according to label directions and are meant for specific situations.
Do not accept contracts that are priced so low you cannot provide safe, thorough service, since that pressure often leads to cutting corners and increased risk of accidents and complaints.

Sources: OSHA, EPA, CDC, Bureau of Labor Statistics, NIOSH, ISSA, The Janitorial Store, Cleaning Is Caring, U.S. Small Business Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Florida Department of Revenue, Washington Department of Revenue, Minnesota Department of Revenue, Pennsylvania Business One-Stop Hub