Janitorial services: Overview, definition, and example

What are janitorial services?

Janitorial services refer to professional cleaning and maintenance services provided to commercial or residential buildings. These services include tasks like sweeping, mopping, dusting, trash removal, vacuuming, window cleaning, restroom sanitation, and other general cleaning activities that keep a building or facility clean, organized, and hygienic.

Janitorial services are typically contracted by businesses, property managers, or homeowners to ensure that the space remains clean and well-maintained. The services can vary in scope depending on the needs of the client, from basic cleaning tasks to more specialized services like deep cleaning or sanitation.

Why are janitorial services important?

Janitorial services are important because they help maintain a clean and healthy environment, which is essential for the comfort, productivity, and well-being of individuals using the space. In commercial settings, a clean and organized environment creates a positive impression on clients, customers, and employees. For businesses, regular janitorial services can improve workplace morale, reduce the spread of illness, and increase overall employee productivity by providing a tidy and hygienic space to work in.

For building owners or managers, hiring professional janitorial services ensures that cleaning tasks are handled efficiently and effectively, and it can also reduce the cost and hassle of employing in-house staff for cleaning duties.

Understanding janitorial services through an example

Imagine a corporate office building that is open 5 days a week. The building management hires a janitorial service to come in after hours to clean the common areas such as the lobby, hallways, restrooms, and break rooms. The janitorial service team is responsible for wiping down surfaces, mopping floors, emptying trash cans, and making sure the bathrooms are fully stocked with toiletries and cleaned daily.

In another example, a retail store contracts janitorial services to clean the sales floor, restrooms, and storage areas after the store closes. The cleaning crew is responsible for ensuring the store is presentable and sanitized for the next day’s customers.

An example of a janitorial services clause

Here’s how a janitorial services clause might appear in a service agreement:

"The Service Provider shall provide janitorial services to the Client, including the daily cleaning of office spaces, restrooms, floors, windows, and trash disposal. The Service Provider shall ensure that all areas are cleaned to industry hygiene standards, and the service shall be performed during non-business hours to minimize disruption."

Conclusion

Janitorial services are essential for maintaining a clean and safe environment in both residential and commercial settings. By outsourcing these services, businesses and property owners can focus on their core operations while ensuring their spaces remain sanitary, organized, and welcoming. Whether for an office, retail space, or residential property, hiring professional janitorial services ensures that cleanliness and hygiene standards are consistently met.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.