Tired of Inconsistent Cleaners? Here’s How to Vet Cleaning Businesses for Reliability

If you're managing a commercial property or office, you've likely been there. Your cleaning company starts strong, then slips into a pattern of missed spots, late arrivals or no-shows, and half-done tasks. What once felt like a dependable partnership quickly turns into a cycle of frustration and complaints from staff or tenants.

Inconsistent cleaning can affect employee health, hurt your brand's reputation, and cost you time chasing down issues that shouldn't exist in the first place.

The Problem with Inconsistent Cleaning

First, let’s examine the common indicators that you’re dealing with an unreliable cleaning vendor:

• Frequent complaints about dirty restrooms or breakrooms from tenants or employees
• Cleaning staff who skip tasks or rush through jobs
• No clear way to report or follow up on issues
• Unresponsive supervisors or managers
• Inconsistent staff showing up without proper training

These red flags point to a lack of oversight and accountability. That’s why it’s critical to work with a cleaning company that makes accountability a central part of their business model, not just a buzzword on their website.

What Accountability Should Look Like

When vetting cleaning companies, don't just ask about pricing and services. Ask about their quality control processes. Here’s what a reliable cleaning partner should offer:

1. Regular Audits (Including Surprise Inspections)

One of the most powerful tools a cleaning company can use is regular, detailed audits, both scheduled and unannounced.

At ProEthic Building Services, for example, site supervisors perform routine quality control audits to ensure all tasks are being completed to standard. These aren’t just surface-level walkthroughs, they involve checklist-based inspections and direct feedback to the cleaning team.

Surprise audits are also part of the accountability model. Cleaners who know their work will be closely examined on a frequent basis, but don’t know exactly when that check is coming, are motivated to deliver top-tier work every time they visit your facility. 

2. Hands-On, Accessible Management

You shouldn’t have to chase down someone to get an answer about a cleaning issue. Look for a cleaning partner whose management is visible, responsive, and regularly in touch with you. You should ideally have a project manager or point of contact you can get in touch with quickly, without needing to leave a message or send an email and simply hope for a response.

At ProEthic, supervisors don’t just assign work and disappear. They make regular site visits, check in with clients, and make sure the cleaning staff have the training and tools they need to succeed.

3. Detailed Reporting and Communication

Does the cleaning company document their work? Do they log completed tasks, inspection notes, and customer feedback?

Accountability starts with transparent reporting. Look for a company that offers:

• Quality control reports
• Communication logs or issue tracking
• Real-time updates (if using apps or portals)
• Follow-ups on any concerns you raise

These systems ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

4. Trained and Vetted Cleaning Staff

Consistency starts with people. A cleaning company should have:

• A stable, trained workforce
• Background checks for safety
• Ongoing training on cleaning standards and safety
• Clear expectations for professionalism
• Backup cleaners on call to deal with absent or sick cleaning staff

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Commercial Cleaning Partner

To find a cleaning company that values accountability, ask the following during your vetting process:

• What systems do you use to ensure quality control?
• Do you perform regular or surprise inspections? How often?
• Who will supervise the cleaning team on-site?
• How can we communicate feedback or issues?
• What happens if a team member isn’t meeting expectations?
• Can you share examples of how you resolved a client issue in the past?

If the company can’t give clear answers or tries to dodge these questions, that’s a major red flag.

Don’t Settle for "Good Enough"

Too often, businesses stick with inconsistent cleaners simply because switching feels like a hassle. But tolerating poor service leads to larger problems:

• Decreased employee morale
• Health and safety issues
• Negative impressions on clients or guests
• More stress for your operations or facilities team
• Paying a premium for services you’re not receiving

Your Reliable, Accountable Cleaning Partner

At ProEthic Building Services, we don’t just clean, we commit to excellence every step of the way. We ensure accountability with:

• Routine and surprise quality audits to hold our teams accountable
• On-site supervisors and responsive management who check in regularly
• Trained, professional staff who take pride in their work
• Open communication with clients and consistent service follow-up

Tired of Inconsistent Cleaners in Phoenix? Ready for a Partner Who Follows Through?

Contact us at (480) 725-8912 to request a customized plan or quote and discover how our commitment to quality and accountability can give you the consistent, spotless results your business deserves.