How to Bid on Cleaning Commercial Buildings

Cleaning commercial buildings is challenging but profitable for your cleaning business, and the bidding process is challenging, especially for newcomers. It's important to know how to bid competitively while still ensuring that your business will make a profit. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to bid on cleaning commercial buildings.

Step 1: Assess the Building Before you can bid on cleaning a commercial building, you need to assess the building itself. Factors to consider include the size of the building, the number of floors, and the level of cleaning required. It's important to visit the building in person to get an accurate idea of what needs to be done. Take notes and photos to refer back to later.

Step 2: Determine the Scope of Work Based on your assessment, you need to determine the scope of work that needs to be done. This includes tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and cleaning bathrooms. Make a detailed list of all the tasks that need to be completed, and estimate how long each task will take.

Step 3: Calculate the Labor Costs Once you know the scope of work, you can calculate the labor costs. This includes wages for cleaners and supervisors, as well as payroll taxes and benefits. It's important to be realistic about how many cleaners you will need to complete the job within the required timeframe.

Step 4: Estimate the Supply Costs In addition to labor costs, you need to estimate the supply costs. This includes cleaning products, equipment such as vacuums and mops, and any other supplies needed to complete the job. Be sure to factor in the cost of replenishing supplies as needed.

Step 5: Account for Overhead Costs Don't forget to account for overhead costs such as rent, utilities, and insurance. These costs are often overlooked but can have a significant impact on your bottom line. Be sure to factor in all of your business expenses when calculating your bid.

Step 6: Determine the Profit Margin Once you have calculated your labor costs, supply costs, and overhead costs, you can determine your profit margin. It's important to bid competitively, but you also need to ensure that your business will make a profit. A profit margin of 10-20% is typical for commercial cleaning services.

Step 7: Submit Your Bid Once you have determined your bid, it's time to submit it. Be sure to include all of the details of your bid, including the scope of work, labor costs, supply costs, and overhead costs. It's also a good idea to include a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience in commercial cleaning.

In conclusion, bidding on cleaning commercial buildings requires careful assessment and calculation to ensure a successful and profitable job. With these steps in mind, you can confidently bid on new projects and grow your business in the competitive world of commercial cleaning.

Source Facts to Bid on Cleaning Commercial Buildings: 

1. A clean commercial building is essential for the health and safety of employees and customers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases. (Source: CDC)
2. In addition to health benefits, a clean commercial building can improve the overall appearance and perception of a business, which can attract and retain customers. (Source: CleanLink)
3. Commercial cleaning can also help prolong the life of building materials and equipment by reducing wear and tear caused by dirt, dust, and debris. (Source: The Spruce)
4. When bidding on cleaning commercial buildings, it is important to consider factors such as the size and type of the building, the frequency and level of cleaning required, and any special services or equipment needed. (Source: Business.com)
5. Pricing for commercial cleaning services can vary depending on these factors, as well as geographic location and competition in the market. (Source: Cleaning Business Today)
6. Building a good reputation and strong relationships with clients can be key to winning and retaining cleaning contracts for commercial buildings. (Source: FacilitiesNet)
7. Professionalism, reliability, and quality service are essential for success in the commercial cleaning industry. (Source: CleanFreak)