Épisodes

  • Franchise vs National vs Privately Owned Cleaning Companies - Which Is The Best?

    Franchise vs National vs Privately Owned Cleaning Companies - Which Is The Best?
    Jul 15 2023
    In this episode, Tom & Sarah delve into a comprehensive comparison of franchise cleaning companies, national cleaning companies, and privately owned cleaning companies.

    They provide a thorough analysis of the pros and cons associated with each type, offering valuable insights for both business owners seeking cleaning services and consumers in need of cleaning solutions.

    Starting with franchise cleaning companies, Tom & Sarah highlight several advantages. These companies offer cookie-cutter business plans and comprehensive administrative support, which can be a boon for entrepreneurs lacking organizational skills on the office side. Franchise cleaning companies also employ dedicated marketing staff who excel at finding new accounts. However, there are notable downsides to consider. Local franchisees often face challenges in achieving long-term success, as the franchisor retains significant control over their operations and can revoke contracts if strict adherence to their rules is not maintained. Ongoing fees and royalties further impact profitability and long-term financial viability. Additionally, high initial costs, including franchise fees and equipment purchases, can be daunting for those with limited resources. Franchisees also experience limited flexibility and autonomy, being bound by operational guidelines, standards, and brand image requirements set by the franchisor. This restricts their ability to make independent decisions and adapt to local market conditions, including pricing and marketing strategies.

    Moving on to national cleaning companies, Tom & Sarah explore the benefits and drawbacks associated with this type. National cleaning companies excel at securing accounts with nationally recognized brands and retail chains, providing a robust account pipeline for their subcontractors. They also ensure timely payment for subcontracted services. However, there are significant downsides to consider as well. National cleaning companies often claim a steep percentage of the revenue generated from accounts, ranging from 30% to a substantial 70%. This revenue sharing arrangement reduces profitability for local cleaning companies. Moreover, miscommunication issues frequently arise in the delivery of work orders due to the intermediary nature of these companies. There is also a risk of contracts being abruptly terminated without notice, leaving local cleaning companies without work unexpectedly.

    Lastly, Tom & Sarah delve into privately owned cleaning companies, thoroughly examining the pros and cons. Privately owned cleaning companies offer a range of benefits that cater to customer preferences. Being local entities, they can provide prompt on-site services, often on the same day if required. These companies have a vested interest in delivering high-quality services to maintain their reputation and secure repeat business, making them highly motivated and dedicated. Additionally, they possess extensive knowledge of the local market, allowing them to offer competitive pricing. Tom & Sarah emphasize the importance of supporting these small, often generational family businesses, as doing so strengthens the local community. However, there are potential downsides as well. Quality can vary significantly among privately owned cleaning companies, as they differ in size and available resources. It is crucial for consumers to conduct thorough research by examining social media presence, reviews, and website authority to ensure reliability. Additionally, some companies may be too small to handle large-scale cleaning projects or lack robust training systems to maintain consistent service quality.

    Tom & Sarah conclude by emphasizing the need for careful consideration of specific needs, budget constraints, and personal preferences when selecting a cleaning company. Each type presents its own advantages and disadvantages, and understanding these nuances will empower listeners to make informed decisions. By weighing the pros and cons outlined in this episode, individuals can find the cleaning solution that best aligns with their requirements.

    Enjoy the episode!
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    45 min
  • How to handle a skipped service!

    How to handle a skipped service!
    Nov 15 2024
    Welcome back to The Cleaning Indy Podcast, brought to you by American Facility Care! Tom and Sarah Moore kick off this episode with a lively discussion about strengthening the bond between contractors and facility managers through effective communication and solid cleaning practices.They revisit their online quiz, specifically diving into the second question: Do you experience too many instances where the cleaning staff fails to show up for scheduled appointments? Tom and Sarah share a real-life story about a daycare left scrambling every Friday when their cleaning company failed to show up—highlighting the ripple effects of unreliable service on overworked daycare staff.To tackle this common issue, they outline actionable tips, such as asking critical questions during contractor walkthroughs, like:
    • How does your management structure operate?
    • What happens when staff calls in sick?
    • Do you utilize technology like geofencing to ensure coverage?
    They also stress the importance of clear contract language to define expectations, penalties, and service guarantees. A good contractor, they note, should value communication and cater to your preferred style—whether it's via text, email, phone, or in person.The Moores close with a teaser for the next episode, where they'll explore why service quality often declines after 90 days with a new cleaning company and what steps you can take to prevent it.If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to leave a review, subscribe, and check out their website, CleaningIndy.com, for more insights.
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    12 min
  • 6 Ways To Lower Your Cleaning $$ Budget Today $$

    6 Ways To Lower Your Cleaning $$ Budget Today $$
    May 25 2023
    In this podcast episode - "6 Ways To Lower Your Cleaning Budget Today," we discuss valuable information that can help you save thousands of dollars per month. We provide six practical ways to reduce cleaning expenses: with a BONUS at the end!
    1. Consolidate Services: Instead of hiring multiple cleaning companies for different tasks, find a single company that can offer a wide range of services. This can lead to better pricing, simplified communication, and streamlined billing.
    2. Adjust the Cleaning Frequency: Evaluate your cleaning needs and adjust the frequency of cleaning services accordingly. For example, reducing cleaning from five days per week to four can result in significant monthly savings.
    3. Update Your Scope of Work: Regularly inspect your facility to identify areas that require less frequent cleaning or where you can reduce the scope of services. Communicate with your cleaning company about unused areas or lower foot traffic zones to potentially negotiate a cost reduction.
    4. Negotiate a Better Price: Negotiate with your cleaning company for better pricing or terms, especially if you've been a loyal customer. Additionally, consider shopping around and comparing prices from different cleaning contractors to find a more cost-effective provider.
    5. Use Technology: Optimize your cleaning operations with technology. Utilize occupancy sensors to adjust cleaning schedules based on building traffic and employ supply monitoring systems to reduce costs. Technology can help improve efficiency and save money.
    6. Use Battery Operated Cleaning Equipment: Request your cleaning contractor to use efficient cleaning equipment and methods that require less time and labor. Battery backpack vacuums, for instance, can significantly reduce labor costs compared to corded alternatives.
    Additionally, we suggest encouraging employee involvement in maintaining cleanliness to decrease the amount of cleaning required by contractors. However, it is important to strike a balance and avoid burdening employees with excessive cleaning tasks.

    As a bonus tip, we recommend communicating your cleaning budget to your service provider. By letting them know your budget constraints, you may open up discussions that could lead to cost-saving solutions. We also emphasize the significance of setting clear expectations with your cleaning contractor and providing regular feedback to help them improve their service quality and potentially reduce costs. This can also prevent the need to search for a new cleaning company.

    Overall, by implementing these strategies, listeners can effectively lower their cleaning budget while maintaining cleanliness and quality standards in their facilities.

    Enjoy the Show!
    CLEANINGINDY.COM
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    15 min
  • Are There Industry Standards For Commercial Cleaning? - Let's Discuss the ISSA & IICRC

    Are There Industry Standards For Commercial Cleaning? - Let's Discuss the ISSA & IICRC
    Jun 13 2023
    In this episode, we dive into the topic of industry standards for commercial cleaning. We address the common experiences we have all had with cleaning expectations, whether it's dealing with messy roommates, guests, or children. The question arises: Are there any standardizations when it comes to commercial cleaning?The answer is a resounding "yes," and we provide two valuable resources for understanding these standards:
    1. The ISSA (International Sanitary Supply Association): We explore the ISSA's Clean Standard, which serves as the gold standard of cleaning. It offers comprehensive training programs and certifications for cleaning service providers, emphasizing the connection between cleaning, health, and overall well-being. By adhering to the Clean Standard, facilities can demonstrate the value of clean environments, leading to increased employee productivity and improved bottom lines.
    2. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification): We discuss the IICRC's role in developing common industry language and terminology, as well as its certification programs for professionals in the cleaning, inspection, and restoration industries. Their certifications cover a range of specialized areas, such as microbial remediation, structural drying, and floor care.
    Additionally, we mention several other entities and organizations that promote cleaning standards, including governmental bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We also highlight the role of professional associations like APIC (Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology) and AHA (American Hospital Association) in providing certifications for operating room cleaning.To ensure cleaning has been performed effectively, we discuss two verification methods:
    1. ATP Testing: Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) testing measures actively growing microorganisms and provides a rapid assessment of cleanliness. Lower ATP readings indicate better cleanliness.
    2. Fluorescent Markers: These markers, available as gels, powders, or lotions, are used to mark high-touch objects before cleaning. By using a UV light, one can inspect whether a surface has been adequately cleaned.
    With the wealth of resources and tools available, including these standards and verification methods, you can confidently ensure that your cleaning crew meets your expectations. Cleaning is no longer subjective but objectively measured.To stay updated and learn more about commercial cleaning, visit our website at CLEANINGINDY.COM. Don't forget to leave a review wherever you listen to this podcast, whether it's on Google, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.

    Take care, and we look forward to sharing more valuable insights in our next episode!
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    18 min
  • Do You Struggle To Get A Meeting With Your Contractor?

    Do You Struggle To Get A Meeting With Your Contractor?
    Feb 25 2025
    In this episode of *The Cleaning Indy Podcast*, hosts Tom and Sarah Moore tackle a crucial issue that many facility managers face—why it can be so difficult to communicate directly with onsite cleaners.

    They explore how certain cleaning companies use independent contractor (1099) models instead of hiring W-2 employees, leading to miscommunication, lack of accountability, and a drop in service quality. Drawing from their own experiences and real-world cases, they shed light on why this practice is so common and how it ultimately affects both the workers and the businesses that hire these services.

    The discussion highlights how some companies outsource their cleaning work to subcontractors without informing clients, leaving facility managers struggling to address cleaning concerns. Tom and Sarah share real-life examples, including a situation where a company was unaware that their cleaning provider had hired an entirely different company to handle the actual cleaning. They also discuss major lawsuits and Department of Labor investigations into the misclassification of workers, where cleaning companies have been found guilty of avoiding tax obligations and underpaying their staff.

    Tom and Sarah emphasize the importance of choosing a cleaning company that hires and invests in W-2 employees rather than relying on subcontractors. They explain how businesses can protect themselves by asking the right questions during the hiring process—such as whether the cleaning company directly employs its workers and what steps they take to ensure training and accountability. By opting for a provider that values long-term relationships and company culture, businesses can secure more consistent, high-quality cleaning services while supporting fair labor practices.

    Before wrapping up, the hosts invite listeners to take their **Cleaning Quality Quiz** at CleaningIndy.com to assess their current cleaning service. They also tease the next episode, where they’ll discuss another common frustration—missed trash cans and overlooked cleaning tasks. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple, Google, or Spotify and subscribe for more insights into keeping your facility clean and well-maintained!
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    11 min
  • How To Hire The Right Cleaning Company

    How To Hire The Right Cleaning Company
    Jan 22 2024
    In this first podcast episode of the new year, Tom and Sarah take the lead in empowering facility managers for the crucial task of selecting the perfect commercial building cleaning contractor for janitorial services. The duo kicks off the discussion by highlighting the three fundamental criteria influencing major purchasing decisions: Know, Like, Trust. Addressing the urgency in expediting the contractor selection process, Tom and Sarah explore two pivotal methods – pre-qualifying over the phone and carefully considering walk-through observations.

    During the pre-qualification phase, Tom and Sarah guide facility managers through a series of key questions aimed at gauging a
    • contractor's experience,

    • company size,

    • staffing capabilities, and

    • references.
    Special emphasis is placed on adhering to industry standards such as OSHA, creating a comprehensive checklist for facility managers to navigate the selection process effectively. The duo stresses the significance of a multifaceted vetting process, encompassing online research, reviews, website visits, blog readings, and even podcast listening. The goal is to foster a deep understanding of, affinity for, and trust in the cleaning contractors.


    Drawing from industry professionals like Odessa Woodlee and Ayaz Ahmed, Tom and Sarah incorporate valuable insights into the conversation. Topics discussed include staffing levels, equipment quality, and the brands of cleaning chemicals used. In this episode Tom and Sarah talk about the "dust test" during walk-throughs and offers practical advice on addressing specific concerns related to delicate surfaces or unique areas within a facility.

    As the discussion unfolds, Ricky Smith contributes a noteworthy observation, emphasizing the correlation between quality and cost. Facility managers are encouraged to consider the significant budget allocation for janitorial services, underscoring its substantial role in effective facility management. Tom and Sarah conclude by reinforcing the critical importance of choosing the right cleaning or building service contractor, positioning it as a linchpin for success in commercial settings.

    This comprehensive episode, guided by Tom and Sarah, serves as a valuable resource for facility managers navigating the nuanced landscape of commercial building cleaning and janitorial services.

    Enjoy the show!

    Show page: CleaningIndy.com
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    19 min
  • We Polled 700+ Facility Managers on Top Pain Points - Here are the results...

    We Polled 700+ Facility Managers on Top Pain Points - Here are the results...
    May 3 2023
    In this episode, the host Tom Moore discussed transitioning to a new cleaning company.

    He shared the results of a LinkedIn poll of 738 facility managers that showed the top reasons for changing cleaning companies were poorly trained staff, inconsistent attendance, missing items, and little communication.

    The episode also offered an insider tip about the importance of focusing on one service rather than taking on everything. The guests on the show also suggested that communication, staff empowerment, and showing appreciation were key to maintaining a good relationship with cleaning companies.







    The Cleaning INDY Podcast, sponsored by American Facility Care, is a show for facilities directors, property managers, and anyone responsible for maintaining buildings.

    Visit:

    CleaningIndy.com

    for more info.
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    23 min
  • The Pros and Cons of In-House Cleaners vs Professional Services

    The Pros and Cons of In-House Cleaners vs Professional Services
    Apr 27 2023
    Are you a facility director, property manager, or point person in charge of your building? If so, tune into this episode of the Cleaning Indy Podcast brought to you by American Facility Care to learn all about the pros and cons of in-house cleaners versus outsourcing to a professional cleaning company. Put your building in the best hands possible - listen now!
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    19 min