When was the last time you looked closely at your cleaning contract? For many facilities managers and business owners, cleaning agreements are left unchanged for years, even though the needs of the workplace evolve quickly. An outdated contract can mean you are not getting the level of service you require, or worse, you may be paying for a schedule that no longer suits your staff, clients or building.
In this article we share a simple checklist to help you spot whether your contract is past its best, what questions you should be asking a cleaning company before you sign, and how to decide on the right cleaning schedule for your workplace.
A Checklist for Spotting Gaps in Your Contract
If you answer “no” to any of the following, it may be time to review your cleaning agreement:
- Does your contract reflect your current working patterns? Many businesses now operate hybrid models. If your office is not fully occupied every day, you may need fewer daily cleans but more focus on high traffic areas.
- Are the consumables included? Items such as hand towels, toilet rolls and soap should be clearly outlined. If they are not, you may be overspending or facing unexpected supply issues.
- Does the contract include clear standards and audits? Quality checks and reporting should be part of the service, ensuring that agreed standards are consistently met.
- Is the contract flexible? As your business grows or changes, you should be able to adjust cleaning hours or frequency without facing excessive penalties.
What to Ask Before Signing a Contract
Choosing a cleaning partner is about more than price. Before you commit, make sure you ask:
- What exactly is included in the quoted price? Confirm whether consumables, specialist equipment and emergency call outs are covered.
- How is quality monitored? Regular inspections and reports should be standard.
- Who supervises the cleaners? A clear management structure ensures accountability.
- What happens if standards slip? Understand the process for raising concerns and how quickly they will be resolved.
- Is the company fully insured and compliant with health and safety requirements? Always request evidence.
Asking these questions up front will give you confidence that you are working with a transparent and professional provider.
The Right Cleaning Schedule for Your Workplace
Not every business needs the same level of cleaning. Here are some general guidelines:
- Daily Cleaning: Essential for high footfall environments such as schools, medical centres, retail spaces and busy offices. These areas need consistent attention to keep staff and visitors safe and comfortable.
- Weekly Cleaning: Suitable for smaller offices or workplaces with low occupancy. A weekly service can focus on dusting, vacuuming and maintaining washrooms, while staff take responsibility for light daily tasks.
- Monthly or Periodic Cleaning: Deep cleans of carpets, upholstery, kitchens and windows are often carried out monthly or quarterly. These go beyond surface cleaning and keep the building in good condition for the long term.
The most effective approach is usually a combination of daily routines supported by periodic deep cleans. This ensures both cleanliness and longevity of your premises.
Final Thoughts
A cleaning contract should work for your business, not against it. By reviewing your agreement regularly, asking the right questions and setting an appropriate schedule, you can ensure that your workplace remains clean, safe and welcoming.
If you are unsure whether your current contract still meets your needs, speak with a trusted commercial cleaning company who can provide honest advice and tailored solutions.
