Is Your Cleaning Provider A 'Trash And Dash'?

As a building manager, you might be frustrated with your current cleaning service. Maybe they regularly forget to do certain tasks. Maybe they try to do everything so quickly that they can't get enough done. Or, maybe, they just do an awful job. Among these companies are janitorial service providers who try to do the bare minimum. They come in, take the trash, and might do some minimal cleaning. These are commonly referred to as "trash and dash" companies.

The problem with these providers extends from two issues lying within the company: its systems and its pricing. When a janitorial company has poorly developed systems, tasks cannot get done efficiently and economically, leading workers to cut corners to meet their deadlines. Issues within a company's systems can have detrimental effects on almost every aspect of its operations, from scheduling, to transportation, to cleaning, and so on. To prevent having a cleaning provider that will end up being a "trash and dash", ask them about the systems they have in place that will provide for a consistent and satisfactory clean.

The second issue, pricing, is the catalyst for the previously mentioned systems error. A company is forced to cut corners when it prices its services in a manner that is inconsistent, and frankly unprofitable, with their systems. This is why it's dangerous to take the cheapest bid solely for the price alone. Companies that undercut their competitors often have to subsequently undercut their systems as well, which inevitably turns their service into a "trash and dash" in order to maintain profitability.

So how can we solve these issues? Well, one way is to simply look out for the red flags. Ask questions about the company that's bidding on your building, and compare prices to other bids you've received and the corresponding scope of work. Be sure to check company reviews and even references, if necessary.

And, if you're in Southeastern Pennsylvania, give us a call! We'd be happy to do a walkthrough of your facility and see if you'd be a good fit for us.

(610) 719-7590 • mike@shearerpm.com