Charging for office-cleaning services can be a bit tricky. There are ways to simplify the process so you can get properly paid for the work you do.

Research standard-industry rates. Typically, a commercial cleaning service will be paid by the hour or the amount of space it cleans on regular basis. Contact other companies and get an idea of what they charge. Or ask some of your clients and prospects what they pay or have paid in the past for services. This will give you an idea of what your market collectively is willing to spend.

Create your price structure. Going into a client's office building not knowing what you might be getting into might cause confusion resulting in incorrect pricing strategies. Create price points based on the amount of office and common space you will be cleaning. For example, you should charge more for three offices, a waiting area and conference room than you would a single, one-room office.

Set your prices. The best way to simplify the billing process is to charge for every room you clean. With an hourly rate in mind, one your market can bear, estimate the number of hours it typically takes you to clean specific rooms. Charge a minimum of a half-hour to one hour for each room. Some rooms will require more work than others. Charge more for larger, regularly used, labor-intensive rooms, such as restrooms kitchens and heavily used conference rooms and entryways.

Write clear contracts. For each client, draw up a contract that states how many rooms you will clean, on which days and your rate. For example: Three private offices, two restrooms and a conference room every Sunday: $140 per week. A basic-service contract is all you need.

Send out monthly invoices. Keep a record of what each client owes in a spreadsheet. At the end of each month, send an invoice to each client with the total owed. Invoices are easy to create, but they should look professional and have exactly what each client owes you clearly printed.

Tip

Make sure your invoices include your contact information, such as phone numbers, email, website and an address for clients to send the payment. Install a credit-card machine. Some clients prefer paperless invoicing. For these clients, send email invoices. Payment can be made over the phone or through your website, if you have one.

Warning

Always research industry rates before trying to prospect for business. Only take on as much work as you and your staff can handle.