When businesses reach out to us, it’s usually because their current cleaning company isn’t

meeting expectations. After we walk them through how we can provide a better service, they

typically ask two key questions:

1. “What’s the price?”

2. “How quickly can you begin?”

This article will focus on the second question—when services can realistically start.

“Help! My Cleaning Company Just Walked Out!”

Here’s a scenario that happens more often than you’d think:

Facility Manager: “Bob, we’ve given your team plenty of chances to improve, but we’re still not

seeing the results we need. We’re making a switch. Per our contract, this is your 30-day

termination notice.”

Bob: “Alright, I’ll let my team know. I just wish we had more notice.”

One week later, the Facility Manager gets a voicemail from Bob:

Bob: “Hey, after I told the team they’d be out of work in 30 days, they all quit—fast. I went

ahead and cleared out my stuff over the weekend. If you need anything, let me know. Hopefully, we can work together again someday!”

Now, in a panic, the Facility Manager calls the new janitorial provider:

Facility Manager: “ACME just told me they’re not coming back, and my plant manager just

informed me there’s no toilet paper in the main restroom. Can you get someone here

immediately?”

Understanding the Janitorial Startup Process

Reality #1 – Hiring the Right Staff Takes Time

There’s a common belief that cleaning companies function like staffing agencies, with workers

ready to go at a moment’s notice. The truth is, we carefully assemble teams for each client,

considering the right mix of full-time and part-time employees as well as balancing male and

female staff as needed. Finding the right people is a process, not an instant fix.

Reality #2 – A Structured Plan is Crucial for Quality Cleaning

While janitorial work isn’t overly complicated, it does require a detailed approach to ensure

consistency and efficiency. A solid cleaning plan includes assigned duties, a structured

workflow, and checklists to guarantee all tasks are completed thoroughly and correctly.

Without this, results can be inconsistent.

Reality #3 – Proper Training is Non-Negotiable

Many assume that cleaning is simple, but doing it effectively requires proper training. Every

team member must learn how to use cleaning equipment correctly, apply the right products to

different surfaces, and follow best practices for sweeping, mopping, and sanitizing. Training

also ensures safety for both employees and your facility.

So, What’s the Timeline?

Generally, a new cleaning contract takes three to four weeks to begin. This allows us time to

recruit and onboard the right people, provide thorough training, and establish an effective

cleaning plan tailored to your facility.

What Can You Do in the Meantime?

If your previous cleaning company has already abandoned the job or isn’t fulfilling their

obligations, here’s how to bridge the gap until your new janitorial team is in place:

1. Remind your current provider of their commitment. They are contractually obligated to

continue services for the full 30-day notice period. Hold them accountable.

2. Ask the new provider about short-term solutions. Some companies have “floater”

employees who can cover essential tasks during the transition.

3. Look into temporary staffing options. A staffing agency may be able to provide

temporary workers to handle urgent needs like restocking restroom supplies, emptying

trash, and basic cleaning tasks until the new team is ready.

By preparing in advance and using these strategies, you can minimize disruptions and ensure

your facility stays clean and fully stocked throughout the transition.