4 Essential Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Janitorial Service

Atkins, Inc. • April 16, 2026

Hiring a new cleaning company can feel like a big decision. If things don’t go well, it can create more work for you instead of less. Maybe the service is inconsistent, or the transition doesn’t go as planned. As a manager, you need a cleaning provider you can rely on—one that keeps your facility clean without constant follow-up.



Before making your choice, it’s important to ask the right questions. These four questions can help you better understand how a cleaning company operates and whether they’re a good fit for your building.


1. How Do You Hire, Train, and Retain Your Employees?


The people doing the cleaning will have the biggest impact on your experience. That’s why it’s important to understand how the company brings on new employees and prepares them for the job.


Ask about their hiring process. Do they screen applicants carefully? Do they run background checks? Then, find out how they train their staff. A good company should have a clear training program that teaches proper cleaning methods and safety practices.


It’s also worth asking about pay. Companies that offer fair wages are more likely to keep good employees long-term. Low turnover usually leads to more consistent service, which is exactly what you want in your facility.


2. What Steps Do You Take to Deliver Consistent Service?


Some cleaning companies only respond when there’s a problem. That kind of approach can lead to uneven results and ongoing frustration.


Instead, look for a company that has a plan in place to maintain quality from the start. Ask how they handle the beginning of a new account. Do they create a detailed plan for your building? How often do they perform inspections? Will supervisors visit your site on a regular basis?


You should also ask if they schedule routine check-ins with clients. Regular communication helps catch small issues before they become bigger problems. A company with a clear system is more likely to provide steady, dependable service.


3. Who Will Be Responsible for Our Account?


Knowing who is in charge of your account is very important. You don’t want to be left wondering who to call when something needs attention.


Ask if the company has local management and who will be overseeing your building. Who performs inspections? Who handles complaints or extra service requests? Who manages the cleaning staff each day?

A company with a strong management structure will have clear answers. This usually means better communication and quicker resolution when issues come up.


4. Can You Share References from Similar Facilities?


Most cleaning companies can provide references, but not all references are equally helpful. You should ask for contacts from businesses that are similar to yours in size and type.  For example, cleaning a small office is very different from maintaining a large warehouse or medical facility. A company that performs well in one setting may not have the experience needed for another.


Speaking with similar clients can give you a better understanding of what to expect. If those references report positive, consistent service, it’s a good sign you’re considering the right provider.

Taking the time to ask these questions can help you avoid unnecessary problems and choose a cleaning company that meets your expectations. The right partner will deliver reliable results, reduce complaints, and give you confidence that your facility is being properly cared for every day.

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