What Is a Commercial Cleaning Contract?
If you plan to hire a cleaning company for your business, chances are you will have to sign a commercial cleaning contract. But what is included in such a contract? Here's all you need to know.
The Basics of a Commercial Cleaning Contract
A commercial cleaning contract is a kind of agreement wherein the business hires a contract with a cleaning company to perform a cleaning that outlines the terms of the scope of cleaning services, frequency or schedule, price, and other crucial elements.
It means coming out clearly on the expectations of both parties. The contract shields the interests of the cleaning company in securing assurance of payment for services rendered, while it also shields the client by holding the cleaners responsible for the agreed-upon services and standards of quality.
Common elements required in any commercial cleaning contract include:
A detailed list of cleaning tasks and frequency to be performed daily, weekly, monthly, etc.
Areas of the facility to be cleaned
Products and equipment to be used
Price and payment terms
Insurance and liability information
Termination clause
Having everything documented in a commercial cleaning agreement can help avoid misunderstandings or disputes later on. Both parties will be very clear about what services will be rendered and at what cost.
Benefits of Using a Commercial Cleaning Contract
There are several advantages of having a formal contract in place when outsourcing your company's cleaning:
Consistency/Reliability - Because the schedule for cleaning and the checklist are all in writing, you can assure yourself of the same kind of service every time. There is no need to remind cleaners what must be done.
Cost Savings: Signing a contract for ongoing cleaning will normally let you lock in better rates than one-off cleaning. It can also make budgeting more straightforward because you know how much the fixed monthly expense for cleaning is.
Higher Quality Clean: Most commercial contracts come with some sort of quality assurance steps, such as a supervisor's inspection. The cleaners will also be held to a professional standard for performance and will do a good job to maintain your business.
Flexibility to Meet Your Needs: Every business has special needs regarding cleaning. A contract allows you to tailor your services based on each facility's needs and preferences. You are not required to take a "one-size-fits-all" package.
What to Look for When Signing a Commercial Cleaning Contract
Not all cleaning contracts offer the same value. To get the best value for your money and protect your company, here's what you need to look at:
Get a contract that spells out terms of specifics. Avoid general phrases such as "clean offices" and instead use actionable terms like "vacuum carpets, dust surfaces, empty trash bins."
Look for a termination clause that will allow you to cancel the contract if you're not satisfied with the services on reasonable notice, such as 30 days.
Check that the cleaning service is bonded and insured. This will protect you in case of injury to a cleaner on your property or for theft.
Discuss the kind of products they use. If you are into greener living, ask for eco-friendly cleaning supplies.
Understand their pricing structure: what all is included and what may be an added extra for things like shampooing carpets or washing windows.
Get It in Writing
A commercial cleaning contract is your key to the facility in keeping your business spic and span. This will get you on your way to a good, long-term relationship with your provider of cleaning services by writing down all the expectations and details on paper.
When it comes to the cleanliness and sanitation of your workplace, don't leave anything to chance. Demand an all-encompassing contract from the commercial cleaning company. That's how you know it's done right!
