Pricing new construction jobs for profit is the number one challenge for the business owner who is new to construction cleaning. Even seasoned pros have to evaluate each building or home in an accurate way to assure profitability. An in- person walkthrough is a must to determine what is needed for final cleanup. An estimate sheet is a great tool to use so that nothing is missed and adequate notes are taken. Superintendents usually want the cleaning company to begin cleaning far in advance of when the building is actually ready for cleaning. This can be a profit draining trap. Insist on being the last subcontractor on the property. If not, you will be cleaning around electricians, plumbers, carpenters and painters all of whom will slow down your productivity and expend costly labor hours.
Pricing is normally done in a cents per sq foot format. Windows can be priced separately as time required is dependant on paint overspray and general condition. You will want to visit the property when the superintendent tells you he is ready for cleaning. If there are too many trades people on the premises, you should postphone your start date.
Once you have arrived at a price and are ready to begin work, a walkthrough prior to cleaning is necessary. During this building visit, you will note any scratched windows, gouges on trim, chips or nicks in surfaces or other deficiencies that could be passed on to you. Bring these to the attention of the job superintendent BEFORE cleaning begins. That simple process has the potential to save you money and aggravation once cleaning is underway.
Attempt to complete the project in as few days as possible. The idea of “rough” and “final” cleaning is a superintendent’s dream and a cleaning crew’s nightmare. It is absolutely not necessary and when you are the last one on the job, the cleaning can easily be done once. The more trips you make to a job site to clean and re-clean, the faster profits dwindle. Clean everything once and get paid once. Clean an area twice; make certain you are paid twice. Anytime you are asked to re-clean an area because of additional work by another subcontractor, bill by the hour for that additional work.
You will want to have the superintendent sign off when an area has been completed. This will eliminate confusion when asked to return to re-clean. Have your invoicing and payment terms spelled out in detail and agreed upon before beginning the project. Always mark your invoices “Due Upon Receipt” and don’t agree to wait for payment until the builder gets paid.
Construction Cleanup can be very lucrative and is a niche that many do not pursue. By learning the ins and outs of this specialty during less demanding times, you will be prepared to take on many large projects when they are offered to you. Cost control and “spot on” estimating will be the keys to your success in Construction Cleanup. The profits are yours for the taking.
My How to Book “Post Construction Cleanup 101” is available on my web site: www.cleaningbusinessconsultinggroup.com or email me at Sharon@cleaningbusinessconsultinggroup.com 772-562-7320
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