Recognizing when a cleaning service isn't meeting the mark is crucial for maintaining the standards of your facility. There can be various reasons for a drop in service quality, such as an underquoted contract, changes in ownership, or a shift in focus to other clients. Below are six red flags that your janitorial service might be falling short, and what actions you can take to address the situation.
1. Increased Complaints from Your Team
You've hired a cleaning service to simplify your life, not complicate it. A spike in grievances, from recurring shortages of bathroom supplies to unaddressed dust bunnies, can signal a lack of commitment from your cleaning provider.
2. Diminishing Communication from the Contractor
Remember how management used to be a constant presence? If those days are long gone and proactive updates have ceased, it's time to question the consistency of their service. Consider when you last had a check-in that wasn't initiated by you.
3. Sluggish Response to Cleaning Issues
Occasional oversights are understandable, but a pattern of slow responses to missed tasks, like unemptied trash bins, can point to a cleaning service that's either overextended or disinterested in maintaining your business.
4. High Turnover Within the Cleaning Crew
While the cleaning industry is known for its high turnover rates, excessive changes in personnel cleaning your space can indicate instability or dissatisfaction within the janitorial team, which often reflects broader issues within their company.
5. Poorly Maintained Equipment
A cleaning crew's tools should be in good repair. If you're seeing duct-taped vacuum cords or shabby mops, it's a telltale sign that your provider might be cutting corners or disinvesting in their relationship with your business.
6. Frequent Changes in Your Primary Contact
If you're continually being introduced to new managers, this instability can forecast potential turmoil within the cleaning company, suggesting a problematic company culture.
Taking Action: Your Strategy for Addressing Cleaning Service Shortfalls
Step 1: Address the Issues Directly
Schedule a meeting with your vendor to discuss the specific problems. Inquire about the reasons behind the high turnover and delayed responses.
Step 2: Clarify Expectations
It's possible that service expectations weren't clearly established from the start. Communicate what's important to you clearly, and provide a reasonable timeframe for improvements.
Step 3: Be Ready to Switch Providers
Most cleaning contracts include a clause that allows you to terminate the agreement within 30 days due to service issues. If there's no progress, be prepared to look elsewhere.
Step 4: Prepare for the Future
While your current vendor is on notice, draft a Request for Proposal (RFP) for potential new providers. This preparation puts you in a good position whether you switch or stay at the end of the contract term.
By staying vigilant and addressing these signs promptly, you can ensure your facility maintains the high standards of cleanliness and order you expect and require.
