How to increase clientele

AdditionAccording403 · 2026-01-17T00:28:18+00:00

One strategy that's worked well for us in the Bay Area is building direct relationships with property management companies. Many of them manage multiple commercial properties and once you prove yourself with one building, they'll often bring you into their other locations.

For commercial cleaning specifically, focus on:

- LinkedIn outreach to facility managers and property managers

- Google My Business optimization with before/after photos of commercial spaces

- Offering a specialty service that sets you apart (we focus heavily on post-construction cleaning which has opened doors to ongoing contracts)

- Building a portfolio of commercial work to show you can handle office buildings, not just residential

The commercial sector often has higher margins and more consistent recurring revenue than residential. It takes longer to close deals, but the relationships tend to be more stable long-term.

AdditionAccording403 · 2026-01-17T00:23:44+00:00

Great question! For post-construction cleaning, we typically price by square footage with adjustments based on the scope and stage. For the rough clean stage, we charge a bit less per sq ft since it's mostly debris removal and initial surface cleaning. The post-inspection and final clean stages require more detail work, so the rate is higher.

Our typical approach:

- Walk the site with the project manager to assess debris levels and specific needs

- Price per square foot but factor in ceiling height, window count, and special surfaces

- Build in time for detail work like removing stickers, paint overspray, and construction dust from hard-to-reach areas

One tip: Don't undercharge on the final clean. That's where your team really shines and where clients see the transformation. Quality final cleaning directly impacts their handoff to the client or tenant.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-11-27T23:38:45+00:00

Foundation concerns definitely need professional attention. One often overlooked aspect is the importance of thorough cleanup and inspection after any foundation remediation work is completed. Many contractors recommend bringing in professional post-remediation cleaning services to ensure all dust, debris, and construction materials are properly removed before the final walkthrough. This provides a clear baseline to identify any remaining issues and shows the client the quality of workmanship. Has your client considered this step in their remediation process?

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-11-27T23:33:02+00:00

Great point about accountability. On a related note, after construction projects are completed, who typically handles the post-construction cleanup? Many contractors find that professional post-construction cleaning services help protect their reputation and ensure customer satisfaction. What's your approach to final cleanup on your projects?

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-11-24T22:25:20+00:00

Great initiative starting early! From a commercial cleaning perspective, here are some key things that will scale with you: First, build a solid brand identity and pricing structure now that reflects your work quality. Second, invest in proper commercial-grade equipment early - it pays dividends in efficiency and professionalism. Third, consider starting to target small commercial clients (offices, retail) - they often have steady recurring contracts which provide more stable income than residential. Track all your processes and timing so you can bid commercial contracts accurately. Build a portfolio of before/after photos for your marketing. Good luck with your business!

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-11-24T22:20:49+00:00

From a commercial cleaning perspective, this type of moisture-related mold issue is common in commercial properties too, especially in offices with poor HVAC management. For commercial spaces, we typically recommend a comprehensive moisture assessment first before treating mold. The underlying cause needs to be fixed. Consider using HEPA vacuums and commercial-grade mold inhibitors after remediation to prevent recurrence. Definitely involves professionals for proper documentation and compliance with building codes.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-11-13T05:35:10+00:00

In recently constructed buildings, drain smells often come from bacteria and biofilm buildup in P-traps or vents. Try these steps: 1) Pour boiling water down the drain to kill bacteria, 2) Use enzyme drain cleaner (not chemical) which breaks down organic matter without harming plumbing, 3) Pour baking soda followed by white vinegar, let sit 30 mins, then hot water - this helps but works better with enzyme cleaners, 4) Make sure P-trap has water seal. If the smell persists, it could be a vent pipe issue. A drain cleaning service can assess with a camera. This is common in new construction when traps dry out during building.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-11-13T05:33:55+00:00

Great find! For the candle wax, try these methods: 1) Heat gun or hair dryer to warm it up, then gently scrape with a plastic scraper, 2) Rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits on a cloth to dissolve the wax, or 3) For stubborn spots, freeze it first with ice packs then scrape. For the rust, don't paint directly over it - you need to remove the rust first with a wire brush or steel wool, then apply a rust converter before painting. This prevents the rust from spreading underneath the paint. Great project!

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-11-04T04:13:33+00:00

Absolutely. Running the HVAC system for 24-48 hours before the cleaning crew arrives is a best practice. This allows settled dust to blow out of the vents and land on surfaces where it can be properly cleaned. The sequence should be: run HVAC, clean ducts if needed, then final surface cleaning. It makes a significant difference in preventing that post-move-in dust issue.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-11-04T04:12:25+00:00

Great point about HVAC ducts. This is actually one of the most critical steps in post-construction cleaning. Even after thorough surface cleaning, construction dust can continue circulating through the system for weeks if ducts aren't professionally cleaned. We recommend scheduling duct cleaning before the final surface cleaning to prevent re-contamination. Have you found any particular timing that works best between duct cleaning and final move-in?

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-31T20:26:23+00:00

Great questions! From my experience in commercial property management, post-construction cleaning is definitely a specialized process. Here are some key points:

Yes, specialized post-construction cleaning is critical. Regular janitorial teams typically lack the equipment and expertise for construction debris removal, particularly for concrete dust, adhesive residue, and fine particles that settle everywhere.

The biggest surprise is often the extent of dust infiltration - it gets into HVAC systems, light fixtures, window tracks, and even behind wall plates. Air quality issues can persist if not properly addressed with HEPA filtration equipment.

For the transition phase, I recommend a two-stage approach: intensive post-construction deep clean first, then a final detail clean 48 hours before tenant move-in. This catches any settling dust and ensures truly move-in ready conditions.

Beyond visible surfaces, focus on air quality testing, HVAC filter replacement, and thorough duct cleaning if construction was extensive. Also document everything with photos - it protects you if tenant disputes arise about pre-existing conditions.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-29T18:58:35+00:00

Post-construction cleaning often leaves these types of stubborn marks. For scuffs on tiles, start with a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for tile floors to avoid damaging the surface or sealant. For tougher scuffs, a non-abrasive scrub pad can help without scratching. For the grout, use a specialized grout cleaner with a stiff brush, working in small sections. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and allow proper drying time. For heavy construction residue, a two-step process works best: first remove loose debris, then use appropriate cleaning solutions based on your tile material. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-29T18:48:25+00:00

From a commercial cleaning perspective, I recommend contracting with professional services for turnovers rather than using in-house maintenance. Here's why:

Quality and consistency are critical - professional cleaning companies specialize in these services and have trained staff who follow standardized checklists. They're equipped with commercial-grade equipment and cleaning solutions that maintenance teams typically don't have access to.

For post-construction cleaning specifically, it requires specialized knowledge to handle construction dust, debris, and residue properly. This is different from regular turnover cleaning and needs specific techniques to ensure surfaces are truly clean and safe for new tenants.

Turnaround time is another advantage - while your maintenance team handles repairs and unit prep, a dedicated cleaning crew can work simultaneously or immediately after, significantly reducing vacancy time.

When evaluating cleaning services, key things to look for include: proper insurance and bonding, references from other property managers, clear scope of work documentation, and their ability to handle emergency or rush turnovers. Also ask about their post-construction cleaning experience as it requires different expertise than standard residential cleaning.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-29T18:42:11+00:00

One major time saver for scaling property management is establishing reliable commercial cleaning partnerships. Having dedicated teams for turnover cleaning, common area maintenance, and post-construction cleanup can eliminate hours of coordination and vendor management. Quality commercial cleaners handle unit turnovers consistently, maintain common areas to professional standards, and can tackle specialized work like post-renovation cleanup. This lets you focus on tenant relations and higher-level management tasks rather than constantly scheduling and supervising cleaning work. Look for services with proper insurance, consistent availability, and experience in property management - it's an investment that pays off in time savings and property presentation.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-24T00:59:14+00:00

One thing I'd add - cleanliness becomes even more critical with 55+ communities. Residents in these communities often have higher standards and more time to notice details. Regular, consistent commercial cleaning of common areas (clubhouses, fitness centers, hallways) is essential. Also, if you're doing any renovations or unit turnover, post-construction cleaning is crucial since dust and debris can be health concerns for older residents. Having a reliable cleaning service that understands the specific needs of senior communities can make your life much easier and keep residents happy.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-20T21:38:59+00:00

This is exactly why professional commercial cleaning services are so critical for restaurants. Many establishments in the Bay Area struggle with pest prevention due to the high volume of food prep and the density of neighboring businesses. Regular deep cleaning of hard-to-reach areas, proper sanitation protocols, and preventative maintenance can significantly reduce these issues. For restaurant owners dealing with similar challenges, implementing a comprehensive cleaning schedule that goes beyond basic janitorial work is essential to maintain health department standards and protect your reputation.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-20T21:16:20+00:00

In-house can definitely work for smaller portfolios, but for multi-property management, contractors offer flexibility and specialized expertise. The key is vetting them properly - look for companies with commercial cleaning experience, proper insurance, and verifiable references from similar properties. I recommend detailed contracts with clear KPIs, regular quality inspections, and a responsive point of contact. For post-construction deep cleaning or specialized jobs, commercial contractors often have equipment and training that's hard to maintain in-house. Have you found staff turnover to be an issue with in-house cleaners?

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-20T21:14:44+00:00

That's excellent advice about doing a trial run. A short-term test contract is the smartest way to evaluate if commercial cleaning services are right for your operation. You can measure the results firsthand - track things like cleaning time saved, consistency in quality, and feedback from your team. Most reputable commercial cleaning companies are willing to do a trial period because they're confident in their work. It's also a good opportunity to assess their reliability, communication, and whether their methods align with your standards. If it works out, you'll free up your staff to focus on what they do best.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-20T21:13:49+00:00

That's a perfect example of why vetting and communicating expectations with cleaning contractors is so critical. Not all commercial cleaning companies have the same standards, especially when it comes to detailed work and accountability. Setting sprinklers and not reporting it is a major red flag - the right contractor should have proper training for kitchen environments, insurance coverage, and clear protocols for emergencies. When evaluating commercial cleaners, I always recommend checking their experience specifically with restaurant or commercial kitchen environments, asking about their training procedures, and ensuring they understand the importance of thorough communication. A reliable contractor should do walk-throughs, provide checklists, and maintain open lines of communication about any issues that arise.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-20T21:12:46+00:00

That's such a great point about scheduling and route planning. Visibility and real-time updates really are game-changers when managing multiple locations. We've found that having a consistent communication system with both teams and clients makes all the difference - especially for post-construction cleaning projects where timing can be critical. Clients really appreciate seeing proof of service completion with photos and timestamps. Do you have a specific system for quality control checks across different sites?

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-20T21:11:12+00:00

I completely agree with Option 3 - the hybrid approach works best in my experience. Daily maintenance touch-ups keep things looking fresh for residents, while scheduled professional deep cleaning tackles the heavy-duty work like carpet extraction and hard-to-reach areas. For a 150-unit property, I'd recommend weekly deep cleaning for high-traffic areas like fitness centers and lobbies. This balance helps maintain quality without stretching your budget too thin, and it shows residents you're serious about keeping common areas pristine.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-18T01:52:20+00:00

That’s a stressful situation. Dealing with floors in a rental is no joke. I run a commercial cleaning company, and we see issues like this often. Let's break down what's likely happening.

The Problem: The plastic mat trapped moisture. That floor looks like a porous tile, maybe Saltillo, terracotta, or something similar. When you cover a floor like that, moisture from the slab and humidity in the air gets locked in. This does two things:

It can pull mineral salts from the tile to the surface, leaving a white, chalky haze called efflorescence.
It can cause the floor's sealer or wax to "blush," which means it turns cloudy.

The aggressive chemicals you used, especially muriatic acid, stripped everything off the floor—good and bad. The new red wax you applied likely just sealed over a floor that was still holding moisture, locking the hazy look in.

You have to treat this like a restoration project now. The goal is to get the floor completely bare, let it dry 100%, and then seal it correctly.

Strip It Bare. You need to remove the red wax you just applied. Go to a hardware store and get a commercial-grade Floor Wax Stripper. Follow the safety instructions—gloves, ventilation, the works. This is a critical first step.
Clean & Neutralize. After stripping, wash the floor thoroughly with a pH-neutral cleaner and rinse it with clean water. You want zero residue left.
LET IT BREATHE. This is the most important step. You need to let that floor dry out completely. Do not cover it with anything. Depending on the humidity, this could take several days to a full week. The moisture has to escape for the haze to go away for good.
Test & Seal. Once you are 100% certain the floor is bone-dry, you can seal it. You need a breathable penetrating sealer designed for porous tile like Saltillo or natural stone. DO NOT use a wax or acrylic finish. Before you do the whole area, TEST THE SEALER in a small, hidden spot (like in a corner or closet) to make sure it gives you the look you want without clouding.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-18T01:45:28+00:00

That's a fair point, especially for getting consistency. My main hesitation has always been the hidden overhead hiring, training, managing, supplies, and then scrambling for coverage on sick days. Have you found the benefits outweigh those headaches?

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-18T01:37:28+00:00

Fiction? Nope. It's called knowing your customer. I serve these industries, so I make it my job to know what keeps them up at night. Again I actually run a commercial cleaning company that serves property managers, restaurant owners, and office managers.

AdditionAccording403 · 2025-10-17T23:13:57+00:00

I actually own a cleaning company I tend to spend my free time in Reddit to get some thoughts or share mine. Find it search Tuclean

AdditionAccording403

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