COM26142 Temporary Accommodation and Hostel Cleaning

Written by Kim Frater

Former Public Sector Buyer • Founder of Bid Trawler • 40+ years' public sector experience

"I believe public procurement shouldn't be complicated. Every guide I write explains the process in plain English so you can bid with confidence."

2 minute read  •  Updated September 2026

A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.

The real challenge isn't just cleaning

When I look at this tender, I see more than just floors to mop and bathrooms to scrub.

Torbay Council is looking for partners who can maintain a high standard of living for vulnerable residents.

This contract covers cleaning services in temporary accommodations and hostels across Torquay and Paignton.

The work must meet high standards and adapt to ad-hoc needs.

And with two lots—one for Temporary Accommodation and another for Hostels—you're dealing with different environments and challenges.

Think about the residents' needs

Remember, this isn't just about cleaning spaces.

It's about creating a safe and clean environment for residents who may be going through difficult times.

Their wellbeing depends on clean, hygienic living conditions.

I'd focus on how my cleaning services make residents feel secure and comfortable.

Don't just promise high standards—prove them

Every bidder will claim they can meet high standards.

But few will prove it.

If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see evidence of your past performance.

Think about:

• Testimonials from similar contracts
• Case studies showing improved living conditions
• Quality assurance processes you have in place
• Staff training programmes that focus on hygiene and safety

Evidence always carries more weight than promises.

Pay attention to what they say

Torbay Council is clear—the cleaning needs to be "to a very high standard".

And they expect you to handle ad-hoc requirements.

That means flexibility is as important as reliability.

I'd ensure my submission emphasises how I manage unexpected tasks without compromising on quality.

Show how you handle flexibility

Contracts like these often have sites added or removed.

That means your team needs to be adaptable.

Explain how you manage resource allocation when site lists change.

And how you ensure that standards remain consistent, no matter the location.

Don't overlook the importance of consistency

Consistency is key when managing multiple sites.

It's one thing to achieve high standards at one location.

It's another to maintain them across all sites over the entire contract duration.

I'd detail my inspection routines and how I handle staff absences or turnover to ensure no dip in quality.

Remember the human element

One thing I'd keep reminding myself is that this is about real people.

People who rely on these accommodations for shelter and safety.

I'd ask myself, "What can I do to make their experience better?"

And then ensure every answer aligns with that question.

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

• Ignore the specific needs of each lot
• Fail to provide evidence of high standards
• Overlook the importance of flexibility and adaptability
• Neglect to include staff training and quality assurance processes
• Promise more than can realistically be delivered
• Lack a clear plan for handling ad-hoc tasks
• Don't address consistency across multiple sites

My Final Thoughts

Torbay Council is looking for more than just a cleaning service.

They're looking for a partner who can ensure safe, clean living conditions in challenging environments.

This contract, valued at £390,000 over two years with an option to extend, is weighted towards quality.

That means your written submission carries significant weight.

Focus on demonstrating how you can consistently deliver high standards and handle the ad-hoc needs of each site.