Question 1

How do I verify a Manhattan cleaning company's credentials?

Accepted Answer

Request certificates of insurance (verify with carrier), check state contractor registration, request and call 3+ references from similar buildings, check online reviews and BBB status, and ask for documentation of background check processes.

Question 2

What insurance should Manhattan cleaning vendors carry?

Accepted Answer

Manhattan cleaning vendors should carry $2M+ general liability (higher for Class A buildings), workers' compensation coverage, umbrella/excess liability, and be able to add your building as an additional insured. Request certificates directly from the insurance carrier, not just the vendor.

Question 3

How important is Manhattan-specific experience?

Accepted Answer

Very important. Manhattan's high-rise logistics, tenant sophistication, and security requirements are unique. Vendors from other markets often struggle with vertical building operations, elevator coordination, and the intensity of Manhattan tenant expectations. Require at least 3 years of Manhattan experience.

Question 4

What questions should I ask vendor references?

Accepted Answer

Ask: How long have you used this vendor? Have you experienced staffing issues? How responsive are they to complaints? Would you describe their quality as improving, stable, or declining? Have they ever surprised you with additional charges? Would you hire them again?

Question 5

How long should a Manhattan cleaning contract be?

Accepted Answer

Most Manhattan cleaning contracts run 1-3 years. Shorter terms (1 year) give you flexibility but may result in higher pricing. Longer terms (2-3 years) provide price stability and vendor commitment but reduce flexibility. Include 30-60 day cancellation for cause regardless of term length.

Question 6

What's a reasonable response time for cleaning issues?

Accepted Answer

For Class A buildings: urgent issues within 1 hour, standard issues within 4 hours, routine requests within 24 hours. For Class B/C buildings: urgent issues within 2-4 hours, standard issues within 24 hours. Define response times in your contract with specific escalation procedures.

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