When you manage a commercial property, cleanliness is more than just a detail — it’s a reflection of your building’s professionalism and safety. From the shine of your lobby floors to the sanitation of shared spaces, a well-maintained property keeps tenants happy, reduces maintenance issues, and helps your business make the right impression.
But not every commercial cleaning company delivers the same level of care. Some promise results and fall short, while others quietly go above and beyond.
To help you choose the right partner, here’s a complete property manager’s checklist of what to look for before signing a janitorial contract.
1. Evaluate Their Experience and Reputation
Start by looking at the company’s track record. A cleaning provider with experience in multiple sectors — from offices and schools to warehouses and retail — understands the unique requirements of each environment.
What to look for:
- Years in business and relevant experience.
- References or testimonials from other property managers.
- Consistent online reviews and portfolio of projects.
💡 Tip: Choose a cleaning company that specializes in your property type. Office towers, strata complexes, and industrial facilities all require different expertise.
2. Verify Insurance, Certifications, and Compliance
Before anything else, confirm that your cleaning provider is fully insured and compliant with all safety regulations. A professional cleaning company will provide proof of:
- ✅ Business license and insurance coverage.
- ✅ WorkSafeBC or WSIB compliance.
- ✅ WHMIS and PPE training certifications.
- ✅ Background checks for all cleaning staff.
This protects both you and your tenants from liability in case of accidents or damages.
3. Ask About Cleaning Staff Training and Supervision
A great cleaning company invests in its people. Properly trained staff ensure consistent, high-quality results and prevent costly mistakes.
Ask questions like:
- How are employees trained on safety, cleaning standards, and confidentiality?
- Is there an on-site supervisor or quality control manager?
- How are complaints or issues handled?
At SuperShine, our cleaners follow detailed checklists and report to dedicated supervisors who perform routine inspections — ensuring every task meets our quality standards.
4. Assess the Quality of Equipment and Cleaning Products
Modern cleaning companies use advanced tools and eco-friendly solutions that deliver better results with less environmental impact.
Ask about:
- Microfiber systems that trap dirt instead of spreading it.
- HEPA vacuums for improved indoor air quality.
- Electrostatic sprayers for deep disinfection.
- Non-toxic, certified green cleaning products.
💡 Pro Tip: Check if their products are certified by EcoLogo, Green Seal, or equivalent programs — this ensures safety for staff, tenants, and the planet.
5. Confirm Flexibility and Scheduling Options
Commercial buildings rarely operate on a 9-to-5 schedule — and your cleaners shouldn’t either. The right company will adapt to your building’s hours, traffic, and special events.
Look for flexibility in:
- Evening or overnight cleaning options.
- Weekend and holiday coverage.
- Fast response to emergency cleaning requests.
At SuperShine, we build cleaning schedules around your property’s activity, not the other way around.
6. Understand Their Quality Control Process
A professional cleaning partner should have clear systems for tracking and maintaining quality.
Key elements include:
- Routine site inspections by supervisors.
- Digital cleaning logs or client portals for accountability.
- Performance reviews and tenant feedback reports.
When a company measures performance, you can measure results.
7. Review Their Range of Services
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a full-service cleaning company is convenience — fewer vendors, simpler communication, and consistent quality.
Look for a provider that offers:
- Daily janitorial maintenance.
- Floor care (carpet, tile, vinyl).
- Window and glass cleaning.
- Post-construction cleaning.
- Specialized disinfection services.
💡 Need more than daily janitorial service? Ask if they provide deep cleaning for restrooms, elevators, and shared kitchens.
8. Check for Transparent Pricing and Detailed Proposals
Transparency builds trust. The right cleaning company should provide a clear, itemized proposal that outlines:
- Service scope (what’s included and excluded).
- Frequency of cleaning tasks.
- Cost breakdown (labour, materials, special services).
Beware of vague contracts or “too-good-to-be-true” quotes — lower prices often mean reduced quality or incomplete work.
At SuperShine, every proposal clearly lists deliverables, timelines, and costs — so you always know what you’re getting.
9. Evaluate Communication and Customer Support
Even the best cleaning plan needs strong communication behind it. Ask how your provider handles issues, feedback, and scheduling changes.
Questions to ask:
- Is there a dedicated account manager?
- How quickly do they respond to emails or calls?
- What’s their process for resolving complaints?
Prompt, professional communication is a sign of a reliable long-term partner.
10. Look for a Safety-First Culture
A cleaning company that prioritizes safety protects not only its workers, but your tenants and property too.
Check that they:
- Train staff on safe chemical handling.
- Provide proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Follow building security and access control procedures.
- Maintain clear emergency response protocols.
Safety and professionalism go hand in hand.
11. Red Flags to Watch Out For
Avoid costly mistakes by keeping an eye out for these warning signs:
- No proof of insurance or certifications.
- Frequent staff turnover.
- Poor communication or missed visits.
- Vague contracts or unclear pricing.
- Lack of references or case studies.
If your current cleaning company shows these signs, it may be time to look for a better partner — one that values consistency, communication, and long-term trust.
12. Conclusion: Your Cleaning Partner Should Work as Hard as You Do
Hiring a cleaning company isn’t just outsourcing — it’s a partnership. A dependable janitorial provider keeps your property spotless, supports your reputation, and gives you peace of mind knowing every detail is handled.
When evaluating options, use this checklist as your guide — and remember:
- Experience and safety matter.
- Communication builds trust.
- Quality control ensures consistency.
If you’re a property manager in Metro Vancouver looking for a reliable, professional commercial cleaning partner, SuperShine Janitorial Services is here to help.