[spudnick]

I am going this week to look at two locations both are data entry offices, one is 35,000 sq ft and the other is 28,000 sq ft, they want the same cleaning service for both locations, and they want them cleaned every night, just the reg cleaning, bathrooms, empty trashcans, lite dusting, vacuuming, and sweeping and mopping, does anyone know how long it takes to clean something of this size and how much should I charge, these would be really good accounts for me if I get them so I don't want to scare them off.
Thanks for you help.

[Stringer]

HI Spudnick,

I would be competitive because if you get both buildings you will have about 63,000 sq ft total.

For basic cleaning EVERY night ( I assume this means Sat and Sun also?) it would depend on the "density." How many people, desks, trashcans, etc. Are they at full staff on Sat and Sun or a reduced staff so you clean less areas?

Have you walked the bldgs?

Do you have specifications for the cleaning?

Do you know how many competitors you have? Who they are? (You will need to get to know these people, I know most of mine on a first name basis.)

Do you know why they are going out for bid?

Do you know how many washrooms there are in each building? As these will take more time to clean properly.

Who is providing the "consumable products?" Paper towels, toilet paper, trash bags, hand soaps, personal products, etc?

Does this require you to do carpet cleaning and stripping and refinishing of the VCT floors? As this is usually an additional charge, if not then add it in, if required.

Do you know the nightly security requirements?

The more you know the better off you will be and less chance to loose money. ASK a LOT of questions, it will also make you look good to the prospect.

I will suggest pricing, however you must determine what is right for you, these are only guidelines....ok? And these suggestions are for my area near Chicago, Illinois.

If the density is normal: $ .075 to $ .085 monthly

If it is dense: $ .095 to $ .0115 monthly (More people, more trash and refilling of dispensers, etc)

Everyone wants to make as much money as possible, but unless you are competitive you won't even smell it in today's economy.

Again, ask many intelligent questions. And remember to also figure this pricing in as many ways as possible;

Example, hourly: (regular density): You should be able to clean approximately 3,300 to 3,600 sq ft per hour per each cleaner. HIgh density; possibly 3,000 to 3,150 sq ft per hour per person.

Figure your total hours nightly X your hourly wages (add in all your workers), profit, all overhead; supplies, taxes, insurance, equipment, profit, etc. and break it down to a monthly price per building and possibly a grand total for both.

Good luck, please let me know how you did?

I hope I was some help to you, good luck,

Stringer