To effectively vet and hire a reliable block cleaning company, property managers and landlords must ask 8 essential questions that go beyond just price. These questions focus on the contractor's proven experience in communal areas, the quality of their staff recruitment and training, and their strategies for minimising high staff turnover to ensure a consistent service. Additionally, managers should enquire about communication protocols, adhere to Health & Safety regulations (COSHH and risk assessments), the provision of tailored cleaning schedules and the company's ability to act as the building's "eyes and ears" by proactively reporting maintenance issues.
Choosing the right block cleaning company isn’t just about price. It’s about reliability, consistency, and peace of mind. With so many contractors promising the same thing, how can property managers and landlords separate the good from the bad?
The answer: ask the right questions. Here are 8 essential questions to ask when hiring a cleaning company to look after your communal areas.
Not all cleaners are experienced in communal areas. A contractor may be excellent at office cleaning but struggle with the unique demands of stairwells, bin stores and multiple-occupancy sites. Always ask for proven block cleaning references.
Cleaners are the face of your contract. Ask: how are they hired, trained, and supervised? A strong training programme ensures safe working practices, consistent results, and high standards.
High turnover means residents constantly see new faces and standards drop. Ask how the company looks after its team. At Jaguar, we pride ourselves on just 15% turnover, because staff who are treated fairly stay longer.
One of the most important questions to ask a cleaning company is how they’ll keep you updated. Will you get site reports? Who do you contact in case of problems? Clear communication prevents small issues from becoming big complaints.
From wet floors to waste disposal, health and safety is vital. Ask for proof of risk assessments, COSHH compliance, and policies for keeping residents safe.
The best cleaning companies don’t just mop floors. They act as the “eyes and ears” of the building - spotting broken windows, replacing blown lightbulbs, and reporting damage before residents complain. This puts you as the Block Manager in control, showing residents that potential issues are dealt with quickly rather than waiting for complaints to surface.
Every block is different. Ask if they’ll create a plan that reflects your building’s size, layout, and resident needs rather than a one-size-fits-all checklist.
This is one of the most revealing questions to ask when hiring a cleaning company. A strong partner will highlight their unique approach, whether that’s staff care, reporting systems or a proven low turnover rate.
The right block cleaning company won’t be afraid to answer tough questions. By asking these 8 essential questions, you’ll quickly see which providers deliver real value, not empty promises. Ready to put these questions to the test? Make an enquiry today.
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