How Commercial Cleaning Quotes Are Really Calculated (For Lloydminster Businesses)

by | Sep 5, 2025 | Commercial Cleaning, Hiring Guides

Introduction

Receiving quotes for commercial cleaning services can be a confusing process. One company provides a single number on a handshake, while another delivers a multi-page document. Understanding what goes into a professional quote is the first step toward finding a reliable partner and ensuring you’re paying a fair price for the right services. For businesses in the Lloydminster area, a transparent quote is the foundation of a trustworthy partnership.

This guide breaks down the key factors that determine the cost of professional cleaning services. We’ll explain what a reputable quote should include and highlight the red flags to watch out for, so you can confidently evaluate proposals for your facility.

The 5 Core Factors That Determine Your Price

1. Total Cleanable Square Footage

This is the single biggest factor. It’s not about your building’s total size, but the actual area that requires cleaning. An empty warehouse has a much lower cleanable square footage than a multi-story office building of the same size filled with cubicles, kitchens, and restrooms. A professional company will measure or request floor plans to calculate this accurately, rather than just guessing.

2. Scope of Work (SOW) and Frequency

What gets cleaned, and how often? The SOW is the checklist of all tasks to be performed. High-traffic areas like lobbies and restrooms might require daily trash removal, disinfecting, and floor mopping. In contrast, individual offices might only need weekly dusting and vacuuming. Specialized tasks like window cleaning, floor waxing, or deep carpet cleaning are typically quoted separately and performed less frequently, such as quarterly or annually.

3. Facility Type and Complexity

The type of facility dramatically impacts the cost. A standard office in Kitscoty is simpler to clean than a medical clinic in Lashburn, which requires specialized disinfectants and protocols to prevent cross-contamination. Industrial sites, manufacturing plants, and oilfield facilities in Vermilion River County often require staff with advanced safety training (like WHMIS) and specialized equipment to handle industrial-grade grime, which is reflected in the price.

4. Consumables and Equipment

Does the quote include the restocking of consumables like toilet paper, paper towels, and hand soap? This can be a significant operational cost, and it’s crucial to clarify if it’s included. Additionally, if your facility requires specialized equipment like industrial floor scrubbers, high-pressure washers, or scissor lifts for high-level dusting, the cost of providing and maintaining this machinery will be part of the quote.

5. Labor Costs

Labor is the largest component of any cleaning quote. A professional, reliable company invests in its people. This means paying a fair, competitive wage, providing proper training, covering WCB premiums, and ensuring all staff are bonded and insured. Unusually low quotes are often a red flag that a company may be cutting corners on labor, leading to high turnover, poor quality, and potential liability risks for your business.

Red Flags to Watch For in a Quote

  • No Site Visit: A quote provided over the phone without a physical walkthrough is a guess, not a professional assessment.
  • Vague Descriptions: If the SOW just says “general office cleaning,” it leaves too much room for interpretation and dispute later.
  • Unrealistically Low Price: As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. A price far below competitors often indicates a lack of insurance, undertrained staff, or an unsustainable business model.

A Quote is a Reflection of Professionalism

A detailed, transparent quote isn’t just a price list; it’s a sign that a cleaning company is a professional and organized partner. It sets clear expectations and serves as the foundation for a successful long-term relationship. Before you even get a quote, it’s crucial to vet the company itself. We recommend using our 7-point checklist for choosing a cleaning partner to ensure you’re only engaging with qualified professionals.

Partner with the Lloydminster Region’s Trusted Cleaning Experts

Ready to work with a cleaning company that checks every box? Contact our team today for a free, no-obligation consultation and site assessment for your facility.