10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Commercial Cleaning Company

When you’re searching for a commercial cleaning company near me, you’re not just looking for someone to take out the trash or mop a few floors — you’re selecting a partner who will help maintain your building’s health, safety, and professional image. 

With so many janitorial services and commercial cleaning providers available, knowing what to ask can save you time, money, and future headaches.

Whether you’re managing an office, medical facility, or industrial site, here are 10 critical questions to ask before hiring a cleaning company — plus what their answers should tell you.

1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?

This is non-negotiable. A professional janitorial service should be fully insured and bonded, with up-to-date business licenses and coverage like WorkSafeBC or WSIB. This protects you from liability in the case of on-site accidents or damage.

Why it matters:
Accidents happen. Without proper insurance, your business could be held responsible. Always ask for proof.

2. What Types of Facilities Do You Specialize In?

Not every cleaner is right for every job. 

Some excel in industrial cleaning services, while others focus on commercial office cleaning or strata properties.

Why it matters:
A company with experience in your industry is more likely to meet regulations, understand traffic patterns, and anticipate cleaning challenges.

Tip: Ask if they have references from similar businesses or can offer industry-specific insights.

3. How Do You Hire and Train Your Cleaning Staff?

The quality of any commercial janitorial service is only as strong as the team doing the work. 

Reputable companies will have detailed hiring processes, background checks, and robust training in place.

Why it matters:
Trained, trustworthy staff ensure consistent cleaning and peace of mind — especially after hours.

4. What’s Included in Your Standard Janitorial Services?

The term “standard janitorial services” can vary widely. 

Some companies include tasks like floor care, restroom sanitation, and high-touch disinfection in their base package — others charge extra. Regardless of how a company charges, make sure to ask them so you can understand their logistics and reasoning. 

Ask for:

• A clear breakdown of what’s included
• How often each service is provided
• What’s available as an add-on (e.g., window cleaning, carpet cleaning, or emergency services)

5. Do You Offer Eco-Friendly Cleaning Options?

If your business values sustainability, you’ll want a provider that offers green commercial cleaning services. That means using eco-friendly cleaning agents, low-VOC products, and practices that reduce water and chemical waste.

Why it matters:
Eco-friendly cleaning supports employee health, improves indoor air quality, and aligns with LEED and ESG goals.

Did You Know?
Environmentally friendly cleaning services can reduce absenteeism by improving air quality and reducing exposure to harsh chemicals.

Keywords to ask about:

• What are green cleaners?
• Do you have standard practices that are green and eco-friendly? 

6. How Is Quality Assurance Handled?

Even the best cleaning team needs oversight. Does the company conduct regular inspections? Use cleaning checklists? Gather client feedback?

Look for:

• A dedicated account manager
• Scheduled walkthroughs
• Regular follow-ups on the quality of the work
• Digital inspection systems or reporting apps

Why it matters:
A company committed to quality control is less likely to let service levels slip over time.

7. What Products and Equipment Do You Use?

Ask whether they use professional-grade tools, HEPA vacuums, disinfectants, and — if it matters to your company — eco-friendly cleaning agents or natural green cleaners. Also, it would be good to ask them why they use the specific tools or cleaning solutions to get a big picture of their cleaning programs.

Why it matters:
Using the right tools affects the quality and consistency of your results. If they cut corners here, it may reflect in the final clean.

8. Can You Provide Client References or Case Studies?

Any trustworthy commercial cleaning company near you should be happy to share references from other local clients — ideally, businesses similar to yours.

Ask for:

• How long they have worked with current clients
• If they have case studies or testimonials
• Whether they’ve handled a facility of your size or complexity

9. What’s Your Emergency Response Process?

Sometimes you need a fast response — whether it’s a leak, spill, or post-construction cleanup. Make sure your provider can handle urgent situations quickly and professionally.

Ask:

• What’s the typical response time?
• Do they offer 24/7 support?
• Are emergency cleanups included in your contract?

10. Can You Customize a Cleaning Plan for My Business?

Cookie-cutter solutions rarely work. The best providers tailor services based on your space, schedule, industry, and cleaning goals — including whether you want eco-friendly janitorial services or traditional commercial janitorial services.

A good plan should:

• Have most, if not all, of the cleaning occur after the daily staff have gone home so there isn’t overlap or interference between cleaning and business. 
• Meet safety and regulatory needs
• Adapt as your business grows
• Provide suggestions for further areas of maintenance or seasonal maintenance needs

Don’t Just Search — Ask the Right Questions

Googling a “commercial cleaning company near me” is a start, but the real value comes from a smart interview process. 

These 10 questions can help you find a partner who delivers consistent results, understands your priorities, and aligns with your values — whether that’s sustainability, cost-efficiency, or long-term facility care.

Need a Trusted Partner?

Metropolitan Building Maintenance has nearly 60 years of experience in janitorial services, green commercial cleaning, and building maintenance. We’re local, responsive, and ready to customize a plan for your business.

📞 Call us at 778-565-5435
Or Request a Quote today!