Use your business networking contacts to create a short list

Chamber of commerce socials can be a great way to find cleaning services, but don't discount a friendly trip to the business next door. If your company requires specialized services, such as a clean room service, you may want to contact local companies with similar needs and ask which industrial cleaners they've hired, and which ones they'd recommend.

I recommend: Search online business listing services, such as 1800Contractor.com. 

Interview prospective Industrial cleaning companies

Meet with the owner of each company you're considering, and conduct an interview. You're not just hiring a commercial cleaning company, you're choosing which group of people will have a key to your building and the code to your alarm system. Conduct reference and background checks, and ask what the company's policies are regarding employee background checks. Ask to see proof of business and liability insurance.

I recommend: Search for cusomer reviews of the industrial cleaning companies you're researching. Take a tour of the service using your zip code on the Angie's List business rating site.

Evaluate commercial cleaning candidates by the work they do

"Hire" an industrial cleaner for a one-time cleaning during the bidding process. Meet the crew and evaluate techniques and results.

I recommend: Consult your attorney regarding a mini-contract for the one-time cleaning service, or write it yourself at LawDepot.com. You can also use the link to write your final contract once you've selected a provider for your industrial cleaning needs.