How to Find Commercial Cleaning Contracts (and Start a Contract Cleaning Business)

To find commercial cleaning contracts: choose target industries (offices, medical clinics, schools, gyms, retail, property management), get commercial insurance and bonding, build a professional website and capability statement, then find opportunities through direct outreach to facility and property managers, bid platforms and government procurement portals, subcontracting for larger cleaning companies, and networking. Win with thorough walkthroughs, accurate pricing and clear proposals.

Target industries

Requirements to compete

• General liability, workers' comp, commercial auto
• Janitorial bond
• References and case studies
• Safety training and documentation
• Background-checked staff (Licensing basics: What licenses are needed to start a cleaning business?)

Where to find contracts

1. Direct outreach: visit or email office managers, clinic managers, gym owners
2. Property and facility managers who oversee multiple buildings
3. Bid platforms and RFP sites
4. Government procurement portals (local, state, national)
5. Subcontracting for national janitorial companies or general contractors
6. Networking: chambers, BNI, building owner associations
7. Google search visibility for "commercial cleaning [city]" (see What is SEO?)
8. Referrals from existing commercial clients

Walkthrough, pricing and proposals

• Walk the site; measure square footage, floor types, restrooms, frequency, special needs
• Estimate labour hours × rate + supplies + overhead + margin (or per square foot)
• Proposal: scope by area and frequency, checklist, staffing, quality control, insurance, price, terms
• Follow up promptly; offer a trial period

Starting a contract cleaning business

Start with small offices to build references, then pursue larger contracts; invest in scheduling, quality inspections and staff retention (see How to start a cleaning business).

Frequently asked questions

How do I find commercial cleaning contracts?

Target industries, get insured and bonded, then reach out to facility and property managers, use bid and government procurement sites, subcontract and network.

How do I bid on a commercial cleaning job?

Do a walkthrough, estimate labour and supplies, then submit a clear proposal with scope, frequency, quality control, insurance details and price.

Do I need a bond for commercial cleaning?

Many commercial clients expect a janitorial bond along with liability insurance.

What is the most profitable commercial cleaning niche?

Medical and specialised facilities often pay more due to higher standards, though requirements are stricter.

How do I get government cleaning contracts?

Register on procurement portals, meet eligibility requirements and respond to requests for proposals.

Can I subcontract commercial cleaning?

Yes; subcontracting for larger firms is a common way to gain experience and references.