As a Facility Manager, commercial cleaning prices can be surprisingly difficult to compare. Why? Sometimes it’s a deliberate attempt by a cleaning company to keep things vague. This makes it harder for you to compare bids and gives them room to request more money later if they underestimated the work.
Other times, confusion comes from a company simply not understanding how to price their services properly. That inexperience can also lead to price increases down the road.
So whether you are searching for a new commercial cleaning service or preparing to replace an underperforming one, how do you get clear pricing, compare “apples to apples,” hold your contractor to a set budget, and get the value your facility needs?
Why Cheap Cleaning Bids Aren’t Always a Bargain
Low bids look great on paper, but as the saying goes — you often get what you pay for. A high price doesn’t guarantee better service, but overly low bids should raise immediate red flags.
Prices that seem too good to be true typically are. They may indicate:
- An inexperienced company that wants to “learn” on your facility.
- A janitorial provider that overpromises but can’t deliver.
- Illegal worker hiring to cut costs.
- Declining cleaning quality as the contract continues.
Your Facility Shouldn’t Be a Training Ground
Everyone starts somewhere — but that “somewhere” shouldn’t be your building. A low bid may signal a company that underestimates the time, staff, or resources required to maintain your facility properly.
When that happens, the pattern is predictable:
• Service declines as they cut corners.
• They request more money later.
• Hidden fees appear to “correct” their miscalculations.
Instead, look for companies that provide transparent pricing. That allows you to evaluate bids meaningfully and understand exactly what you’re paying for.
Be Cautious About Promises That Sound Too Good
A salesperson can say anything — but your experience depends on the entire organization, especially the frontline cleaners doing the work.
Cleaning requires time, trained people, equipment, materials, insurance, and a reasonable profit margin. When a bid is unrealistically low, the math simply does not work.
When the math doesn’t work, the cleaning company cannot pay for the time needed to deliver quality service. Eventually, they will reduce work or request more money.
Professional, reputable, experienced janitorial companies may not offer the lowest bid, but they deliver real value — doing the work they commit to, consistently.
Low Prices May Signal Illegal Hiring Practices
If a bid comes in dramatically lower than the rest, ask yourself why. A financially healthy cleaning company cannot operate well below industry costs unless they are cutting corners — often with labor.
Two common illegal practices in the industry:
1. Hiring undocumented workers — individuals not on payroll or without verified legal authorization.
2. Misclassifying employees as “independent contractors” to avoid payroll taxes, insurance, and benefits.
Companies willing to take risks like these expose YOU to liability. Illegal hiring also increases turnover, putting more unfamiliar people in and out of your facility and raising safety concerns.
Too-Low Prices Lead to Poor Quality & Reduced Work
The most experienced Michigan commercial cleaning companies understand real-world budget constraints. When budgets are tight, they can help you prioritize the most essential services and stretch your dollars further.
Professionals know:
• What tasks can be reduced without harming quality.
• Which services are critical for cleanliness and safety.
• How to structure a cleaning plan around a limited budget.
Ultra-low bids without a real plan behind them are a warning sign that the company does not understand your facility’s needs.
Ineffective Cleaning Has Real Costs — And Your Facility Pays for Them
Choosing a too-low bid creates short-term headaches and long-term consequences. In the short term, you may face complaints, inconsistent quality, and staffing issues.
Long-term risks include:
• Increased OSHA and safety risks.
• Higher illness and absenteeism.
• Poor indoor air quality.
• Faster deterioration of building assets.
• A culture of apathy where no one cares about the facility.
A qualified, experienced maintenance partner identifies small issues before they become costly problems.
You Can Find Quality Cleaning at a Reasonable Price
Effective, consistent cleaning is possible even with a limited budget — but only when working with an experienced, reputable janitorial provider.
Look for companies that offer:
• Transparent pricing you can compare “apples to apples.”
• Clear scopes of work and measurable standards.
• Proven processes and responsible hiring practices.
• A track record of long-term client partnerships.
Clear pricing sets expectations for both sides, reduces surprises, and makes managing cleaning and maintenance far easier.
Choosing a solid commercial cleaning company protects your facility, your people, and your bottom line.
