Why Going Direct to Cleaners Can Cost Property Managers More in the Long Run

When managing a commercial property, it can be tempting to hire cleaners, window cleaners, or landscapers directly. At first glance, it looks cheaper - you cut out the “middleman” and speak to the contractor yourself. But for property managers, housing associations, and developers, this approach often creates bigger risks, higher costs, and unnecessary headaches.

---

At LCM Services Ltd, we have been supporting property managers and housing associations since 1996, providing commercial cleaning, landscaping, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, pest control, and one-off painting and decorating across Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes, London, Northampton, Peterborough, Luton, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Watford, and Stevenage. Here’s why using a management company like ours is the safer, smarter choice.

---

1. Risk of Staff Absence – No Cover Means Missed Service

Even the best workers occasionally need time off for illness, holidays, or family emergencies - it’s unavoidable. The challenge for property managers who hire direct is finding a replacement quickly.

LCM Services steps in to coordinate cover on the same day where possible, so properties stay presentable and compliant. This approach supports both our subcontractors and our clients - the contractor has time to recover, and the property manager isn’t left scrambling for a solution.

---

2. Health & Safety Liability

Directly employing or contracting cleaners means you may become responsible for:

• Risk assessments

• COSHH compliance

• Injury or accident reporting

LCM Services is fully insured and compliant. We manage health and safety paperwork, training, and reporting — giving you peace of mind and protecting you legally.

---

3. Hidden Management Time

Going direct might seem cheaper, but think about your time:

• Chasing invoices

• Handling complaints

• Monitoring performance

• Sourcing backup contractors

All of this adds up. LCM Services provides one point of contact and a dedicated manager, saving you hours each month.

---

4. Quality Control

When you manage contractors yourself, quality can slip over time. We conduct regular site inspections, quality checks, and communication reviews so standards never drop.

---

5. Scalability & Flexibility

If your property portfolio grows or you take on a new site, finding and onboarding new contractors can take weeks. We already have a vetted team across Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes, and surrounding regions, ready to mobilise quickly.

---

Conclusion: The “Cheaper” Option Often Costs More

Cutting out a management company might look cost-effective, but in reality, it increases your workload, risk, and stress. Partnering with LCM Services ensures:

• Reliable service, even when staff are absent

• Full compliance with health and safety regulations

• Clear communication and one point of contact

• Time saved so you can focus on managing your properties

If you’re a property manager, housing association, or developer looking for reliable commercial cleaning, landscaping, and maintenance services, contact LCM Services Ltd today to discuss a tailored solution.