Let’s face it—switching commercial cleaning providers can feel like a hassle. Maybe you’re worried about breaking a contract, disrupting operations, or wondering if the next company will really be any better. We get it. At Sovereign Commercial Services, we’ve been helping facilities across the country make smooth transitions since 2002. Whether you’re running a corporate office, a school, or a multi-site retail operation, a clean space isn’t just a luxury—it’s a business essential.
If your current provider isn’t cutting it, here’s what to know before you make the switch—and how we make the process easier than you might think.
- “I’m stuck in a contract, can I even switch?”
This is one of the most common concerns we hear. The truth? Many service agreements have exit clauses or performance-based outs—especially if service expectations aren’t being met. In fact, nearly 50% of companies we onboard were previously unhappy with their provider’s quality or communication but thought they had no way out.
That’s where we come in. We’ll help you review your current agreement, assess your options, and—if needed—work around the end date so your new services start smoothly without gaps or added headaches.
Schedule a free commercial cleaning site assessment here.
- What should you actually look for in a new cleaning provider?
A good commercial cleaner doesn’t just show up—they show up prepared, consistent, and professional – and stay that way beyond the first 90 days! When choosing a new provider, pay attention to:
- Clear scopes of work: Make sure the cleaning tasks and cadences are clear, documented, and meet your expectations. Do not accept vague promises.
- Transparent pricing: This one’s important. When reviewing multiple proposals, make sure you are comparing apples to apples. At Sovereign, we don’t hide our pricing in square footage, but provide actual cleaning hours necessary to get the job done.
- Quality assurance programs: Companies often become disappointed with their cleaning provider for 1 main reason – lack of communication. At Sovereign, we perform regular inspections with frequent communication as part of our standard offering. We also offer digital reporting delivered right to your desk!
- Background-checked, trained staff: Now more than ever it’s critical your cleaning provider fully vets and trains their front-line cleaners. Ask your provider specifically what background checks and clearances staff must have and what the training program entails.
- Reliable service: Ask your provider how they handle “no-show” cleaners. At Sovereign, we have full-time, cross-trained, float staff to ensure we don’t skip a beat, even when a cleaner takes a vacation day or calls out sick.
- How long does it take to get started with Sovereign?
Depending on the size of your facility and scope of service, we can usually get a new client fully up and running within 30 days from the day a contract is signed. This time includes walkthroughs, training, supply stocking, and shift scheduling. We also offer after-hours startups to avoid disrupting your day-to-day operations.
- What if my current provider bails?
Unfortunately, it’s a pretty common practice for certain cleaning companies to “ghost” their clients upon receiving a “discontinuation of service” letter. Sovereign would never do this. We are well-versed in transitions to minimize disruptions. Should your provider “up and leave,” we will work with you to ensure your facility remains clean until the official start up date.
- Do I need to supply the products or equipment?
Completely up to you. We can provide the cleaning labor only, or a Turnkey Service that includes professional-grade equipment and eco-conscious cleaning solutions that align with OSHA, CDC, and EPA guidelines. From microfiber dust rags to robotic vacuums, our tools are designed to improve efficiency and results—while keeping your team and visitors safe.
- What’s the real cost of staying with a bad provider?
Here’s the reality: Poor cleaning leads to poor perception—and that can cost more than just money. According to ISSA, a cleaner workplace can result in up to 46% fewer employee sick days and improve customer satisfaction by over 40%. Not to mention the time drain on you and your staff trying to manage a poor performing provider. According to one of our clients, “before Sovereign, I was spending 12-15 hours a month managing the cleaning company. Now, I have nothing to worry about. They check in with me on a regular basis, and then I get back to my priorities.”
The longer you stay with a provider who doesn’t deliver, the more you risk in productivity, morale, and reputation.
Time for a Clean Break?
If you’re not getting the quality, consistency, or professionalism your facility deserves, it might be time for a change. Sovereign Commercial Services is here to make that switch seamless—from contract review to day one of service and beyond. Interested in seeing how we can make the cleaning provider switch easy? Request a free facility assessment benchmark your program today!