When Brian Greenwald opened The Cleaning Authority in Lee’s Summit two decades ago, he saw more than just a business opportunity, he saw a chance to become part of a growing, close-knit community. “Lee's Summit was one of the fastest growing cities in Missouri, and it still is,” Brian says. “But it also had that small hometown, tight community feel, and that was something I wanted to be a part of.”
Twenty years later, that decision has clearly paid off. With 500 loyal customers and a reputation for consistent, high-quality service, The Cleaning Authority has become a trusted name in homes throughout the area. Brian attributes much of their long-standing success to a combination of strong community support and an equally strong team. “We’ve had a loyal customer base and a strong workforce that keeps us going year after year.”
What sets The Cleaning Authority apart from other services isn’t just their reliability, it’s the system and philosophy behind their work. “We have a strong, loyal staff and a proven cleaning system,” Brian explains. “We teach our employees not to rush, but to clean efficiently. That makes a big difference.” He’s referring to their signature “Detail Clean Rotation System,” a methodical approach that ensures every area of a client’s home receives detailed attention on a regular schedule. After an initial deep clean, homes are maintained through rotating focus areas, providing a thorough yet manageable cleaning plan that customers have come to rely on.
Consistency, it turns out, is the cornerstone of customer satisfaction. “Our customers want things done a certain way—same day, same time if possible—and we make that happen,” Brian says. He emphasizes the importance of communication between the office team and clients. “The more communication, the smoother things go.”
Trust is another key ingredient in the company’s formula. With teams entering private homes every day, clients need to feel confident in who they’re inviting in. “Trust starts from the top down,” Brian notes. “We have to deliver what our customers are paying for, every time.” While he admits no one is perfect, he stresses that consistent quality and professionalism are non-negotiable. The Cleaning Authority is fully insured and bonded which is something Brian believes offers clients added peace of mind. “We have the best possible insurance money can buy. That helps reassure our clients they’re in good hands.”
Beyond their commitment to service, The Cleaning Authority is also deeply rooted in the local community. From joining the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce to partnering with local business groups, the company has always sought meaningful ways to stay connected. Brian was part of a small team that urged the national franchise to do more for local communities. That conversation led to the creation of TCA Cares, a nonprofit initiative that has since made a significant impact.
One of their most visible contributions is an annual food drive supporting Coldwater of Lee’s Summit, the local food pantry. “We drop off branded paper bags to our customers once or twice a year and pick them up filled with food,” Brian explains. “Over the years, we've probably collected more than 16,000 pounds locally and over 1,300,000 pounds nationally.” They also partner with organizations like Midwest Foster Care and Adopt, Community Services League and Lee’s Summit Social Services. Most recently they began to offer a limited number of free cleanings for cancer patients through Cleaning for a Reason. It's a clear example of how a local business can do more than just serve customers but can serve its community, too.
As for what’s next, Brian plans to keep doing what he’s always done: grow steadily and stay committed. “We continue to slowly grow our customer base, but we have no plans to exit,” he says.
After 20 years of service, The Cleaning Authority remains a trusted name not just for clean homes, but for community values and consistency. “It’s all about doing the right thing, every time,” Brian says—and after two decades, that philosophy is still cleaning up nicely.