How to Get Cleaning Contracts in Ontario: Proven Strategies to Land Lucrative Deals

Ontario’s economy supports a robust commercial sector, making office cleaning a lucrative niche. Many businesses prefer outsourcing cleaning to professional services rather than handling it in-house. Identifying the pain points of potential clients, such as sanitation standards, regulatory compliance, and reliability, allows you to tailor your services to meet their needs effectively.

1. Healthcare Facilities – Hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes require stringent sanitation standards and regular cleaning services to ensure compliance with health regulations.

2. Corporate Offices – Many office buildings contract external cleaning services to maintain a professional and sanitary work environment.

3. Retail Stores – Shopping malls, supermarkets, and boutique stores require frequent cleaning to keep up with customer traffic.

4. Industrial & Manufacturing Plants – These facilities demand specialized cleaning services for hazardous waste management and equipment maintenance.

5. Government & Educational Institutions – Schools, universities, and government buildings regularly outsource their cleaning contracts to qualified providers.

Many contracts, especially government-related ones, require certifications such as WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) training and WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage. If you provide specialized cleaning services, such as biohazard or medical cleaning, additional certifications may be required.

• Local Business Directories: Platforms like Yelp, Google My Business, and industry-specific directories can help you locate businesses that may need cleaning services.
• Cold Outreach: Sending tailored proposals to offices, gyms, and retail establishments can yield significant results.
• Property Management Companies: These firms oversee multiple buildings and often hire cleaning companies on contract.
• Networking Events: Attending business expos and real estate networking events can help you build valuable connections.

• Website & SEO: A professional website optimized for keywords like “commercial cleaning services Ontario” can attract organic traffic.
• Social Media Marketing: Platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn are excellent for connecting with business owners looking for cleaning services.
• Referral Programs: Offering discounts to clients who refer your business can expand your customer base.
• Flyers & Direct Mail: Targeting specific business areas with flyers can yield high returns.

• Understand the Scope: Read the contract requirements carefully and determine the specific services needed.
• Competitive Pricing: Offer fair but competitive pricing based on market research.
• Professional Presentation: Create well-structured proposals that outline your experience, services, and pricing clearly.
• References & Testimonials: Including client testimonials can boost credibility and trust.

Joining local business organizations, attending Chamber of Commerce meetings, and being active in community events can significantly boost your brand awareness and credibility.

• Government Websites: Ontario’s procurement website lists public cleaning contract opportunities.
• Freelance Marketplaces: Platforms like TaskRabbit and Upwork can provide short-term cleaning jobs.
• Business Directories: Listing on platforms like HomeStars and Angie’s List can increase visibility.

• Hourly Rates: Ideal for small jobs or residential cleaning services.
• Per Square Foot: Common for commercial and office cleaning contracts.
• Fixed Monthly Pricing: Best for long-term contracts where consistency is required.

Conducting competitor research ensures your rates remain competitive while maintaining profitability.

• Consistent Quality: Delivering high-quality service ensures repeat business and referrals.
• Regular Follow-Ups: Checking in with clients shows you value their business.
• Loyalty Programs: Offering discounts or additional services for long-term clients can enhance retention.