Choosing a commercial cleaning company isn’t just about finding someone to empty bins and mop floors. The quality of your cleaning impacts staff health, customer confidence, safety, compliance, and even how long your flooring and fixtures last.
If you’ve ever walked into a workplace that feels consistently clean and well cared for, that’s usually the result of good systems running quietly in the background. When cleaning is inconsistent or rushed, the problems show up quickly — odours, streaky floors, overflowing bins, irritated staff, and avoidable maintenance costs.
This checklist breaks down what actually matters when selecting a commercial cleaning provider and what quality service should look like once they’re on site.
Use it as a practical reference when comparing providers or reviewing an existing contract.
✅ Simple Quality Checklist
- ⬜ Friendly and approachable management
You should feel comfortable speaking with the manager. Good communication builds trust, prevents issues from escalating, and creates a genuine working relationship. - ⬜ Practices Safe Work Standards
Cleaners should demonstrate safe work practices, and provide a Work Health & Safety sheet that they have created that outlines duties, risks, and procedures to rectify problems. Click here to find out about WHS. - ⬜ Clean, presentable uniforms
Staff who arrive in clean uniforms show professionalism and pride in their work. It also helps with security, accountability, and client confidence. - ⬜ Personal hygiene and presentation standards
Cleaners who maintain their own hygiene demonstrate self-respect — and are far more likely to respect your workplace and cleaning standards. - ⬜ Consistent performance over time
The site should look just as good months later as it did in the first few weeks. Consistency matters more than occasional perfection. - ⬜ Offers a free trial or trial period
Companies confident in their service are often willing to prove their quality upfront. This shows accountability and confidence in their systems. - ⬜ Clear communication and fast responses
Messages should be returned promptly. Issues should be acknowledged quickly and resolved without chasing. - ⬜ Shows up on time, every time
Reliability builds trust. Missed visits or late arrivals quickly erode confidence. - ⬜ Has proper insurance and safety compliance
Public liability insurance, workers compensation, and safe chemical handling protect everyone involved. - ⬜ Uses quality equipment and products (GECA-Certified)
Professional tools and GECA-Certified chemicals deliver better results and protect surfaces long-term. Learn more about GECA chemicals. - ⬜ Respects your site and staff
Cleaners should move carefully around equipment, secure doors properly, and treat staff and property respectfully. - ⬜ Proactively flags issues or maintenance concerns
A good cleaner will notice leaks, damage, safety hazards, or stock shortages and let you know early. - ⬜ Flexible scheduling when your business changes
As your business grows or trading hours change, the cleaner should adapt easily. - ⬜ Transparent pricing with no hidden surprises
Quotes should clearly outline what is included and what is not. - ⬜ Low staff turnover
Consistent staffing improves site knowledge, efficiency, and trust. - ⬜ Positive reputation and references
Reviews, testimonials, or word-of-mouth recommendations indicate reliability.
The best cleaning companies don’t just clean well. They operate professionally, communicate clearly, respect people and property, and deliver consistent results over the long term.
If a provider ticks most of the boxes above, you’re far more likely to enjoy a smooth, low-stress working relationship and a consistently clean workplace.
