Clean Spaces

I manage a building and some tenants are dirtier than others. I want to make sure the building always stays clean, how do I handle that?

Clean shared areas based on actual traffic and condition, not on the assumption that every tenant creates the same amount of work. Use a baseline schedule for the whole building, then add extra checks or targeted cleaning where certain floors, entrances, or common areas consistently need more attention.

Track where the problems actually happen

Instead of treating the entire building as equally dirty, note the specific locations that need repeat attention. It may be one hallway, one trash area, one elevator lobby, or one shared kitchen. Patterns make it easier to adjust the schedule without increasing every service visit.

Keep shared cleaning separate from tenant housekeeping

Building cleaning should focus on common areas and the scope management is responsible for. If one tenant’s private suite creates extra problems, that may need to be handled through the lease, building rules, or a separate cleaning agreement.

Add targeted touch points

A porter visit, extra trash pickup, additional restroom check, or quick floor service can sometimes solve the issue without increasing the full building cleaning frequency. The goal is to put extra service where it is actually needed.

Review the plan with the cleaning team

Your cleaners see the building differently from management because they work through the same spaces repeatedly. Ask which areas consistently take longer, which problems repeat, and where the schedule does not match the level of use.