What is a WSIB clearance, and why ask for one?
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board describes a clearance as "a unique number issued by the WSIB to registered businesses, which shows that a business, contractor or subcontractor is registered and up-to-date with us, including keeping current with premium payment and reporting." The WSIB says a clearance number is valid for up to 90 days, and it offers a quick-access lookup with no log-in. Its clearance certificate policy explains the purpose: relieving the business that hires a contractor of liability for premiums the contractor owes.
One nuance the WSIB states itself: independent operators with no employees, outside construction, might not be obligated to register, and so might not be eligible for a clearance. If a cleaner says that applies to them, ask how they are covered instead.
The checklist
| Check | What to ask for | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| WSIB | A current clearance, or an explanation of why one does not apply | Premium liability, and proof the company is operating properly |
| Insurance | A certificate of commercial general liability insurance; your landlord may specify an amount | Damage to the building or its contents |
| Scope | A written list of tasks by area and frequency | The only way to check the work, and to compare quotes fairly |
| Access | Who holds keys and codes, and what happens at lock-up | Security of the building after hours |
| People | Who will actually be in the building, and whether it is the same people each time | Consistency and accountability |
| Supplies | Who supplies paper, soap, liners and cleaning products | Hidden cost, and control over products used |
| Problems | How you report something missed, and how quickly it is fixed | What the relationship is like when something goes wrong |
Why does a written scope matter so much?
Two quotes for "office cleaning" can describe completely different jobs. One includes washrooms every visit and baseboards monthly; the other empties bins and vacuums. A scope that lists tasks by area and frequency is the only fair way to compare them, and the only way to check the work afterwards. The office cleaning checklist is a starting point for writing one.
Should cleaning include disinfecting?
For washrooms and high-touch surfaces, often yes, but cleaning has to come first. Ask what product is used and whether it has a Health Canada DIN or biocide number. Cleaning vs disinfecting explains why.
How Klein's answers these questions
Ask us every question on this page before you hire us. A written scope and a walk-through are part of how Klein's quotes office cleaning and janitorial routines, and we will answer the insurance and WSIB questions directly when you request a quote.