We have had a client for 5 months exactly.
Now I know it cuts both ways we have to do a good job but how far do you go?
We gave over all probably 60 hours extra than what was contracted for.
Not because we under estimated the time required but to show willing, good faith and bring the offices up to standard to what was achievable considering the state of the building.
We buffed the floor about 4 times, this took on avaerage 6 hours each time (Downstairs only) the actual state of the floors were beyond care. Lots of tape held down the tiles, cracked and bits missing.
Also what we beleive to be glue that was used to lay the tiles originally every where.
The kitchen work tops are stained, burnt... you need to see it to actually beleive it. We knew it was going to be hard to do so it was not that we were not prepared.
We pointed all this out at the begining of the site survey. so the building in parts were shabby and needed to be replaced so its no showroom.
They complained about the actual cleaning, unbelievable!
They were late payers we even suspended the service once until they paid.
Until last last week we ended the contract ourselves. Due to one of their office staff members being unable to to show basic level courtesy towards a member of our staff.
I was only a little way behind in the corridor so I could see what was happening. Our cleaner was cleaning the stairs top to bottom and was only half way down, signs out - closing off stairs. The cleaner was working hard to be fair as the stair they have are in awful condition.
Their staff spoke to our cleaner loudly, and belittleing, complaining about the stairs had not been done correctly, even though they had not been finished.
So I interveined, and spoke to them immediately and ended the contract. I said even though my staff are cleaners, they are still human beings and need to be treated with respect.
We have transfered the cleaner to one of our other many contracts. He was not at fault in any way.
I informed them that the complaints procedure needs to be followed etc. we gathered our tools, machines and walked away. There were other incidents like this.. but I think you have to know when to call it quits!
I did offer that we could cover for 30 days so they could find alternative cover. But I stressed this would only be done if invoices would be paid immediately.
Im not worried about losing the monies, I dont think I will. They will pay what is outstanding. I just cant believe that some office staff treat cleaners this badly.
We have many many clients and this is the only one that has ever been a bad place to work. Even some of their office staff have said its terrible here. The main person who took us on left... in a hurry and had only been there a few months prior t us.
Just thought I d share this.
Dave
