A 10-Point Checklist for Property Managers
Choosing the right commercial cleaning company is one of the most important decisions a property manager makes. This 10-point checklist covers the essential steps to vet, compare, and select the best commercial cleaning vendor for your building — from verifying insurance to negotiating contract terms.
Why Choosing the Right Cleaning Company Matters
Step 1: Verify Licensing, Insurance & Bonding
Before you even look at pricing, verify that every candidate is properly licensed and insured. You need: general liability insurance (minimum $2 million per occurrence), workers’ compensation insurance, a valid business license, and bonding to protect against theft or damage. Any company that hesitates to provide a certificate of insurance (COI) should be eliminated immediately.
Step 2: Confirm Experience in Your Facility Type
A company that cleans warehouses well might not have the right protocols for a medical office building. Verify documented experience with your specific facility type. RBM Building Services has experience across all facility types — commercial offices, healthcare, education, hospitality, government, industrial, retail, and warehouses. See the facilities we service.
Step 3: Request References & Check Reviews
Ask each candidate for three current client references from properties similar to yours. Key questions: How long have they worked together? How do they handle after-hours issues? Have they ever missed a shift? How responsive are they to special requests? Would they sign another contract?
The 10-Step Vetting Process
Step 4: Review the Scope of Work (SOW) in Detail
The scope of work is the most important document in your cleaning contract. A complete SOW includes: frequency of each task, specific areas, products and equipment used, measurable quality standards, and inspection protocol. Learn more about full-service janitorial.
Step 5: Understand the Pricing Model
Commercial cleaning averages $0.10 to $0.35 per square foot per month for standard full-service in 2026. See our pricing guide for details.
Step 6: Evaluate Staffing & Training
Are employees background-checked and drug-tested? Do they receive site-specific training? Is there a dedicated supervisor? What’s the turnover rate? Companies that invest in staff deliver better results.
Step 7: Ask About Green Cleaning
Look for EPA Safer Choice products, HEPA vacuums, microfiber cloths, and low-VOC cleaners — essential for LEED-certified buildings.
Red Flags & RFP Checklist
Your Commercial Cleaning RFP Checklist
When sending RFPs, require: (1) certificate of insurance, (2) three references, (3) detailed SOW, (4) all-inclusive pricing, (5) training documentation, (6) green certifications, (7) reporting systems, (8) emergency plan, (9) fair contract terms, (10) trial period. See this commercial janitorial cost overview for pricing benchmarks.
What to Look For
What to Look For in a Cleaning Partner
• 50+ years of industry experience for stability
• Full-service provider (nightly + periodic deep cleaning)
• Multi-state coverage for consistent quality
• All facility types — offices, healthcare, education, hospitality, industrial
• Transparent pricing with clear scope of work
• Green cleaning options for LEED compliance
Why Property Managers Choose RBM
Why Property Managers Choose RBM
Founded in 1974, RBM Building Services brings 50+ years of expertise to every property. We offer customized cleaning programs, a proven track record across UT, AZ, NV, and TX, and performance-based guarantees. From Full-Service Janitorial to Building Maintenance and Floor Recoating, we handle it all.
Get Started Today
Schedule a free consultation and trial at your property. Call 800.403.3564 or contact us online. We’ll assess your facility’s needs and create a tailored cleaning program.
Ready to find the right commercial cleaning partner? Call RBM today.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a commercial cleaning company doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Use this checklist to find a partner who keeps your building clean and your tenants happy. For more resources, check out this Las Vegas janitorial guide. Call RBM at 800.403.3564 to get started.
