What We Do
We follow a rigorous, four-phase approach to conducting APPA or LEED certification audits. While APPA focuses on maintenance and facility condition, and LEED on sustainability and green operations, our process ensures comprehensive coverage for both:
Discovery and Documentation Review (Pre-Audit)
- We begin by requiring and reviewing all existing client documents, policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and historical performance data. For LEED, we heavily scrutinize green cleaning protocols and product purchasing logs. For APPA, we focus on maintenance backlogs, staffing ratios, and asset management systems to build a baseline understanding.
On-Site Verification and Data Collection
- This phase involves a physical walk-through of the facility. We perform visual inspections, interview facility staff, and verify that the documented procedures (from Phase 1) are actually being executed correctly on the ground. For LEED, we verify crucial steps like waste sorting and proper chemical storage. For APPA, we rate the physical condition and cleanliness levels using a defined scale.
Analysis and Benchmarking (The DCS Global Advantage)
We analyze the collected data against the specific metrics required by APPA (benchmarks) or LEED (credits and prerequisites). We then generate a detailed Gap Analysis report, quantifying precisely where the current operation falls short of the required standard.
Final Reporting and Action Plan
We deliver a comprehensive final report that includes the audit findings, the current estimated score/status, and most importantly, a Prioritized Action Plan. This plan outlines specific, actionable steps our client must take (e.g., policy changes, staff training, new product implementation) to successfully achieve or maintain the desired APPA or LEED certification.
Why Clients Work With Us
DCS leaders have run both internal teams and outside vendors, so we know the daily pressures of the Built Environment.
Our advice puts your mission, values, and Built Environment needs first front-and-centre, not vendor pitches.
We encourage supplier success but always keep your organization in control, reducing risks and improving care.
Local Experience, National Reach
Our people have:
Managed outsourcing rollouts at Built Environments across Toronto.
Completed contract audits that recovered costs in Calgary.
Led vendor reviews in Chicago’s Built Environment networks.
From coast to coast, public and private clients count on us to simplify vendor management and boost value.
What about APPA/LEED Audits?
Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED).
LEED Certification is an increasingly important reputational tool that tells your tenants and potential tenants you care about sustainability. More importantly, it actively indicates you are doing something about it. DCS Global completes custodial effectiveness APPA audits for LEED certification, professionally, quickly, seamlessly, and cost-effectively, with full LEED points awarded. At DCS Global our third-party APPA/LEED audit process exceeds LEED requirements, inspecting 5 percent more space than required, while remaining highly cost-effective.
Assessments are completed based on the APPA 1-5 measurement standards: Level 1 orderly spotlessness, Level 2 ordinary tidiness, Level 3 casual inattention, Level 4 moderate dinginess, Level 5 unkept neglect. Once the inspection is complete, we prepare and present a report that captures: the methodology used to conduct the audit, an audit areas breakdown per APPA space category definitions, the score allocated to each space, and specific opportunities to improve cleaning practices. This report also includes a building-specific project description, a detailed area summary, specific inspection data, and recommendations.
DCS Global raises the bar without increasing client costs.
DCS Global has conducted thousands of inspections on facilities of all types and sizes across North America, from commercial office buildings to campuses, retail centers, and transit systems. Let our expert facility services advisors take the stress out of managing your cleaning contracts.
Invest in the best quality and value for your cleaning dollar.
Our highly experienced and proven team knows what a clean building should look like, based on your unique specifications and requirements. We know exactly what to look for and where to look. With our extensive U.S., Canada, and local expertise, you can always count on DCS Global wherever you need us.
Need a customized solution?
DCS Global specializes in facilities maintenance consulting services tailored to your industry and needs. We are known for increasing quality and sustainability while managing cost, across large and small portfolios.
