Bringing on a janitorial contractor should make your job easier—not harder. But if you choose the wrong company, you could end up dealing with poor service, ongoing complaints, and the hassle of switching providers. So how do you spot a bad fit before signing a contract?
Below are three kinds of cleaning companies that often cause problems. Knowing what to avoid can help you choose a vendor that actually delivers on their promises.
1. Companies With No Relevant Experience
One of the biggest red flags is a janitorial company that hasn’t worked in a facility like yours. Not all buildings are the same—cleaning a manufacturing plant isn’t the same as cleaning a retail store or healthcare clinic. Each type of facility has specific requirements, and a company without the right background may not understand how to meet them.
If a cleaning company has no track record in your industry, they’ll likely face a steep learning curve—and your facility will pay the price. Go with a provider who already knows how to handle your kind of space.
2. Companies Without Local Support
It’s not uncommon for janitorial companies to expand into new regions to grow their business. But some do so without setting up local operations. That’s a problem. Without on-the-ground managers or supervisors, it’s hard to keep quality consistent or respond quickly to issues.
When something goes wrong—and in any service business, it eventually will—you need someone nearby who can fix it fast. A company that operates from far away is less likely to give you the reliable, responsive service your building needs.
3. Companies That Say “Yes” to Everything
Imagine hiring someone to build your office. One option is a licensed contractor who builds commercial spaces full-time. The other is a handyman who does a little bit of everything—including remodeling kitchens and fixing fences—but has only built a few offices. Who would you trust more?
Some janitorial companies work the same way. They say yes to every opportunity—big, small, or completely outside their wheelhouse. While that may sound flexible, it’s often a sign they lack focus and specialization. You want a cleaning partner who knows your type of facility and excels at it—not someone who tries to be all things to all clients.
The Bottom Line: It’s About the Right Fit
The best janitorial companies aren’t just the biggest or the cheapest—they’re the ones that fit your needs. Look fora provider that:
If you can check those boxes, you’re far more likely to end up with a contractor who meets your expectations andbuilds a lasting working relationship. Avoiding the wrong fit from the start will save you time, energy, and a lot of frustration down the road.
