Are you wondering how to get commercial cleaning contracts to grow your business? More clients could mean more income, referrals and opportunities to expand. But securing these opportunities takes time and effort — and you need to spend these valuable resources efficiently.
Jump ahead to read eight industry tips to get commercial cleaning clients and help your business grow:
Requirements for business licenses and permits vary by state and city. You may need a vendor’s license and a “doing business as” (DBA) registration. Always check with your local licensing board and state revenue department to see what’s required where you do business.
Proper licensing isn’t just about compliance. Even if it’s not required, it an show potential clients that you’re legitimate and trustworthy.
Clearly defining your niche helps you understand how to get commercial cleaning clients more effectively. Offices, factories, schools, hospitals and industrial facilities each have unique cleaning needs. Some need special products or have specific Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.
Positioning yourself as a commercial cleaning specialist (office cleaning, window cleaning etc.) helps you stand out and win more commercial clients. Identify potential clients and communicate with property managers to secure cleaning contracts.
Know your competitors and what they offer. Big cleaning franchises have lots of resources. Highlighting your unique strengths — like you’re locally-owned, woman-owned, dedicated to green cleaning, etc. — can help you get more clients for your cleaning business.
Think about what makes you different. Do you use special cleaning techniques or are you an eco-friendly business? Is your customer service exceptional? Clearly share these strengths to help attract new clients.
Commercial cleaning has risks like bodily injuries, property damage and equipment loss. Cleaning business insurance can help protect your finances and show your professionalism. It can help give clients confidence that your business is financially responsible and trustworthy.
Most commercial cleaners can benefit from these types of business insurance:
This coverage helps protect your business from common accidents, like slip-and-falls or accidental property damage. It shows clients you can handle problems responsibly. General liability can help pay for some medical expenses, repair or replacement of some damaged items and some legal costs.
Learn more about general liability for cleaning businesses.
Workers’ comp is required in most states if you have employees. It can help with medical expenses and wages if employees get injured or sick at work.
Learn more about workers’ comp for cleaning businesses.
If your work gear gets lost, damaged or stolen, tools and equipment coverage can help pay for replacement or repairs to help your work continue with minimal interruption. Tools and equipment coverage is an add-on to general liability insurance for cleaners.
If you drive for work, commercial auto insurance can help cover the costs of some vehicle repairs, accident damages and medical expenses from vehicle-related incidents.
Most people research online before choosing commercial cleaning services. A professional website and active online presence can help get more clients to your digital door.
A marketing plan could include:
Don’t forget to register your business locally with a Google Business Profile to help get you found in your area.
Networking and word-of-mouth referrals can help you get cleaning clients fast.
Try these strategies:
If you do have a meeting, write down as many details as you can and ask questions about the job so you fully understand what’s expected. Follow up if you have questions or to clarify details.
A clear commercial contract outlines exactly what your cleaning company provides.
Include details like:
Clear contracts can help prevent misunderstandings and build trust. They also show potential customers you’re professional and reliable.
Joining cleaning industry groups like Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association (ISSA) or International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) to help you build your business.
These groups offer networking events, industry tips, education and certifications. They can help you stay updated on best practices and industry trends. Being part of a trade association can also help make your business look more credible and appealing to prospective clients.
NEXT makes it fast, easy and affordable to protect your small business with cleaning business insurance — and you can do it all online.
We’ll ask a few questions about your business and give you a quote. You can select your coverage options and buy your policy in about 10 minutes. Your certificate of insurance will be available immediately, and you can access your policy 24/7 via web or mobile app.
If you have questions, our licensed, U.S.-based insurance professionals are available to help.
Kim Mercado is a content editor at NEXT. She writes and edits content for small business owners, and enjoys helping entrepreneurs solve their business challenges and learn about insurance. Kim has contributed to Salesforce, Samsara and Google.
You can find Kim trying new recipes and cheering the 49ers.
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