Secure Post Construction Cleaning Contracts: Proven Strategies
Securing post-construction cleaning contracts can be highly profitable for cleaning businesses, offering high-margin, one-time projects and the potential for long-term contracts with clients moving into new spaces.
In this guide, we’ll explore seven effective ways to secure post-construction cleaning contracts, from targeting the right companies to leveraging relationships for ongoing work.
1. Build Relationships with Construction Companies
One of the most direct ways to secure post-construction cleaning contracts is building relationships with general contractors . Moreover, they are a key source for post-construction cleaning jobs. Here’s how you can approach it:
- Identify key players: Focus on project managers, superintendents, and general contractors within construction companies. These individuals are usually responsible for subcontracting cleaning services once construction is complete.
- Attend networking events: Participate in local construction or building industry events. Joining construction trade associations can also open doors to potential business leads.
- Demonstrate reliability: Builders and contractors need dependable partners who can meet tight deadlines. Position your company as a reliable partner who can deliver high-quality cleaning services on schedule, no matter how tight the timeframe.
For more help on pricing your construction clean-up jobs, check out this Construction Clean-Up Pricing Calculator.
2. Leverage Your Expertise in Specialty Services
Offering specialized cleaning services is one way to stand out in the competitive post-construction cleaning market. Construction sites often need more than just basic cleaning, and if you can offer specialized skills, you’re more likely to win contracts. Highlight services like:
- Tile & grout cleaning and sealing
- Carpet cleaning and restoration
- Floor waxing and polishing
- Debris and hazardous material removal
- High-dust cleaning of vents, ductwork, and ceilings
For more detailed tips on pricing post-construction clean-up services, check out this guide: How to Price Construction Clean-Up Jobs Effectively.
7 Ways to Get Construction Cleaning Contracts
3. Get on Construction Company Bid Lists
Many construction companies have preferred vendors or bid lists they turn to for post-construction services. To get your business on these lists:
- Cold call or visit construction companies and ask about their bid processes. Project managers or procurement teams can provide you with the necessary steps to become a vendor.
- Prepare a professional bid packet that includes an overview of your services, pricing structures, safety protocols, and any certifications that demonstrate your expertise. Ensure your proposals are clear and competitive.
- Focus on safety and compliance: Construction sites require a deep understanding of safety and regulatory guidelines. By emphasizing that your company adheres to OSHA standards and other safety regulations, you increase your chances of being considered for a bid.
For a helpful sample proposal, see this Sample Proposal for Janitorial Services and Commercial Cleaning Estimate.
4. Leverage Local Business Networks and Resources
Construction projects often get featured in local business journals, newspapers, and public announcements. These resources are goldmines for finding upcoming projects that may need post-construction cleaning. Some ways to leverage these resources include:
- Buying a lead list of construction companies or projects in your area.
- Monitor newspapers and local business journals for announcements of new projects or commercial real estate developments.
- Search Google for active or upcoming construction projects in your region. Contact the developers or contractors directly to offer your services.
By staying informed of upcoming projects, you can reach out to construction companies before they even begin looking for cleaning services.
5. Use LinkedIn for Networking and Outreach
LinkedIn is an invaluable tool for connecting with project managers, superintendents, and decision-makers in the construction industry. Use it to:
- Build your network: Send connection requests to construction professionals in your area and engage with their content to build rapport.
- Post content that showcases your work: Share photos of recent post-construction cleaning projects, customer testimonials, and success stories to position yourself as an expert in the field.
- Direct message leads: Reach out to decision-makers directly, offering a no-obligation quote or consultation for their upcoming projects.
A consistent presence on LinkedIn can help build credibility and keep your business top of mind when construction professionals need post-construction cleaning services.
6. Offer a Flexible, Client-Focused Value Proposition
When marketing your post-construction cleaning services, emphasize the flexibility and convenience you can provide. Builders and project managers often need cleaning services to fit within tight timeframes and budgets. Tailor your value proposition to highlight:
- Flexible scheduling: Construction timelines often shift, so flexibility is crucial. Offer evening, weekend, and short-notice availability to meet the demands of busy project managers.
- Quick turnaround times: The faster a space is cleaned, the sooner it can be handed over to the client. Market your ability to provide fast, efficient cleanups without sacrificing quality.
- Safety compliance and experience: Safety is a top priority in construction. Ensure that you emphasize your company’s adherence to safety standards, using protective equipment, and knowledge of hazardous materials when applicable.
For a comprehensive example of maintaining safety in the workplace, see this 12-Month Cleaning Business Safety Policy.
7. Leverage the One-Time Job for Long-Term Contracts
Perhaps the most profitable aspect of post-construction cleaning is that it often leads to long-term opportunities. After you complete a one-time cleaning job for a construction company:
- Contact the property owner or manager: Once the building is occupied, reach out to the new tenants or property managers to offer ongoing cleaning services. Since they’re familiar with your work, you have a higher chance of securing a long-term janitorial or maintenance contract.
- Offer a discount or incentive: Encourage the client to sign on for regular cleaning services by offering a small discount for long-term contracts. You can frame it as a continuation of the excellent service you provided during the post-construction cleanup.
- Build a referral network: Ask the construction company or the client for referrals to other potential projects. Satisfied clients are often happy to recommend you to others in their network, leading to additional business opportunities.
For help calculating travel expenses for your business, check out this resource on Calculating Travel Costs Effectively.
Conclusion
By following these seven strategies, you can increase your chances of securing lucrative post-construction cleaning contracts. Focus on building strong relationships with construction companies, offering specialized services, and getting your business onto preferred vendor lists. Additionally, don’t forget to leverage each one-time job into an opportunity for long-term business by reaching out to the new occupants or property managers.
By implementing these tactics, you’ll set your business up for sustained growth and success in the post-construction cleaning market.
Valuable Resources:
- Construction Clean-Up Pricing Calculator
- How to Price Construction Clean-Up Jobs Effectively
- Calculate Travel Costs Effectively
- Sample Proposal for Janitorial Services and Commercial Cleaning Estimate
- 12-Month Cleaning Business Safety Policy