Cleaning contracts in commercial and condominium settings are arguably one of the most difficult to satisfy. Where cost and visual impact are the proportionally dominant factors in choosing a service provider, expectations from property management understandably run high. Savvy cleaning and maintenance companies are looking to technology to heighten their ability to service and provide for their clients. As the importance of environmental sustainability becomes increasingly recognized, many companies are also striving to integrate eco-friendly practices into their operations.
A big challenge in the condominium sector is the diversity of needs across a variety of buildings and communities. Unlike commercial properties, where environmental standards like LEED and BOMA certifications are well-established, condominiums often lag in adopting sustainable practices. This presents a unique opportunity for service providers to educate and influence condo boards and property managers about the benefits of eco-friendly solutions.
According to Andrew Hood, Vice President of Innovation Building Maintenance, the goal is not only to provide cleaning and construction services but also to improve environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards across their operations.
“We can shift the narrative from simply hiring a cleaning service to choosing a partner committed to environmental stewardship,” he explains. “This approach is particularly relevant for condominium boards and property managers, who may not yet prioritize sustainability as much as their commercial counterparts.”
Cleaning Schedules and Bluetooth Tracking
Innovation is also a leader in using technology and industry standards to provide a better service. One of the standout innovations is their use of the Mero system, a cutting-edge technology that tracks and optimizes employee tasks. This system uses Bluetooth beacons placed in wall outlets to scan cleaners’ fobs, providing real-time data on their location and activity. This not only ensures that tasks are completed according to schedule, but also enhances transparency and accountability. Additionally, this data can be used to refine cleaning routines and improve overall service quality.
“With Mero, we’ve seen an active increase in our growth potential with new customers and security in supporting existing contracts. We had a problem at one of our sites where cleaners were not following their routine. Mero’s technology allowed us to highlight the exact areas where cleaners were spending time and changed the dynamic of the property. We can now offer an improved quality of services,” Hood explains.
Another exciting development is the use of robotic vacuums and scrubbers. While these are currently more suited to open commercial spaces, the technology is rapidly developing. The company is at the forefront of these advancements, piloting new robotics and integrating them into their service offerings as they become viable for residential use.
Water Conservation Initiatives
Water conservation is another critical area where Innovation Building Maintenance has made significant strides. “We’ve teamed up with a company to reduce water usage consumption in buildings by replacing standard urinals with waterless urinals,” says Tahsin Bondokji, President of Business Development. “This is new patented technology which we’re excited to offer to our clients.”
To date, Innovation has deployed waterless urinal facilities in major shopping centres across Canada, including Yorkdale and Scarborough Town Centre. The urinals significantly reduce water consumption, showcasing a practical application of sustainability in high-traffic areas. This technology is now being considered for residential buildings, further bridging the gap between commercial and residential sustainability practices.
Third-party auditors like EcoVadis and Green Seal certify all chemicals used by Innovation as safe, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
“EcoVadis is the world’s largest third party ESG auditor,” Bondokji says. “In our first year of being audited, we were awarded a bronze medal. That’s something we’re very proud of.”
Additionally, Innovation Building Maintenance employ ionized water for cleaning, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals while still delivering effective results. This method involves charging water molecules to create a potent cleaning agent, a technology that is both innovative and environmentally friendly.
Using HEPA-filtered vacuums with low sound decibels to reduce noise pollution and improve indoor air quality, their attention to detail underscores a holistic approach.
Innovation Building Maintenance has also partnered with Veritree to establish a tree planting initiative aimed at reforesting areas affected by wildfires. Since its inception in 2023, a total of 20,571 trees have been planted in British Columbia. Such programs not only offset the company’s carbon footprint but also engage the community.
By educating board members and property managers about the benefits of these initiatives, Innovation is helping to drive a cultural shift towards more sustainable living. Their thorough approach incorporating advanced cleaning methods, water conservation, and cutting-edge tracking systems, positions them as a frontrunner in the industry.
To learn more, visit https://www.innovationmaintenance.com/
