Key takeaways
- Cleaning keeps surfaces and spaces clean. Maintenance keeps the building and its systems working.
- Some tasks sit in between, so assign each one to a named party in writing.
- Clear boundaries prevent finger-pointing.
Many building managers use the words interchangeably, but they are different jobs with different people.
Commercial cleaning (janitorial)
Focuses on cleanliness and hygiene:
- Trash and recycling
- Restrooms and break rooms
- Floors and carpets
- Dusting and surface cleaning
- Glass and entries
- Restocking consumables
- Disinfection of high-touch areas
Building maintenance
Focuses on the physical building and its systems:
- Plumbing, electrical and HVAC repairs
- Lighting replacement
- Doors, locks and hardware
- Roofing, drainage and exterior repairs
- Landscaping and parking lots
- Pest control and fire safety systems
- Preventive maintenance programs
The gray areas
| Task | Common owner |
|---|---|
| Changing light bulbs | Maintenance, sometimes cleaning if in scope |
| Replacing paper dispensers | Maintenance |
| Restocking dispensers | Cleaning |
| Pressure washing | Specialty contractor or maintenance |
| Window cleaning | Specialty contractor |
| Spill cleanup | Cleaning |
| Reporting leaks and damage | Cleaning crew reports, maintenance fixes |
How to avoid gaps
- List every recurring task in the building.
- Assign each task to a named party.
- Put cleaning tasks in the cleaning scope and maintenance tasks in the maintenance plan.
- Ask the cleaning crew to report problems they see, such as leaks, burnt-out lights and broken fixtures.
Why reporting matters
Cleaning crews are in the building when no one else is. A good crew spots leaks, damage and safety hazards early. Make it easy to report them with a clear contact and process.
Practical tip: Add a line to your scope: "Crew reports maintenance issues to [contact] within one business day."
See what's included in commercial cleaning services.