Trust is important when hiring any kind of contractor, but especially when that contractor is a cleaner.
Often, they will be working outside of office hours meaning that not only will you be unable to see how slowly, quickly or thoroughly they are working, but they will also be alone with potentially valuable business equipment and items. What’s more, they are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene in your workspace which could have a direct impact on your staff’s wellbeing.
Here at Calibre Cleaning, trust lies in us doing what we say we are going to do – and when. We have open lines of communication for all of our clients for feedback and raising any issues – which we are very responsive to.
So how can you be sure your cleaning company is trustworthy? Here are the signs to look out for that should give you peace of mind.
1. Staff are well trained
Companies that invest in their people help to create a workforce that is not only highly skilled but loyal, dedicated, and one that takes pride in its work.
Ongoing staff training and reward schemes help team members to feel more job satisfaction, meaning they stay in their role longer. This means clients can expect their cleaning to be carried out by familiar faces who they have an opportunity to build a relationship with, and have confidence in.
Here are Calibre Cleaning, we offer very hands-on management for staff so that they have regular and open-door support.
We also treat them to seasonal perks, offer optional private healthcare, counselling if staff need support.
Our pay rates are National Living Wage or above; if clients are a Living Wage employer, we will pay the higher rate required within this scheme.
2. Cleaners are vetted
It is just as important to a cleaning company as it is to the client that they can trust their staff. For this reason, a responsible company will thoroughly screen all its employees. A comprehensive interview process, as well as identity and reference checks should be a basic requirement. Any staff working within a school or care home environment will have criminal record checks carried out, as required by law.
All staff who do not hold a British passport will have a Right To Work check.
3. Accreditations and memberships
Being certified by and members of professional bodies and organisations tells you that a cleaning company takes the time to ensure they are up to date with and adhere to current regulations and codes of conduct.
For example, Calibre Cleaning is ISO9001 certified, which is the world’s most recognised quality management system ensuring we’re continually improving efficiency, working practices, consistency and productivity.
We’re also a member of BICS – The British Institute of Cleaning Science, the largest independent cleaning industry body which gives us training opportunities and industry updates. We’re SafeContractor certified which means our health and safety documentation is up to date and meets legal requirements.
4. Insurance
No matter how careful individuals are and how stringently health and safety procedures are adhered to, accidents can occasionally happen in any area of work. A responsible cleaning company will be fully insured, giving you peace of mind that should the unexpected happen, your staff and property will be protected.
We share our insurance documents with clients who want to see them – we are insured to £10m, in line with local authority and government organisations requirements.
5. Reviews
Before employing a cleaning company, check their online reviews. A high number of negative reviews or equally, none at all, should ring alarm bells.
It’s also helpful to look at past clients; have they had big contracts, with prestigious firms, or well-known names? Similarly, lengthy contracts indicate that their clients are happy with their work and have renewed their contract: a good sign. Don’t be afraid to contact their old clients directly to hear their feedback first-hand; a good cleaning company will be perfectly happy for you to do so.
If you’d like a trusted, professional and responsible company to help you with all your commercial cleaning needs, get in touch.