April 30, 2025 | Malibu, CA — MedLegalNews.com — Janitorial Registration Program violations have resulted in $80,000 in fines for Pepperdine University and four janitorial contractors, according to the California Labor Commissioner’s Office (LCO). The enforcement action followed an investigation revealing that Pepperdine had contracted unregistered janitorial companies, in breach of California labor laws.
Employers Must Ensure Legal Compliance
“Entities that contract for janitorial services are legally responsible for ensuring their contractors comply with the law,” said Labor Commissioner Lilia García-Brower. “The Janitorial Registration Program is a vital tool to protect workers and uphold basic labor standards.”
The investigation was launched after a referral from the Maintenance Cooperation Trust Fund (MCTF), a watchdog group targeting illegal business practices in California’s janitorial industry. Although Pepperdine previously used registered contractors, it later hired firms that lacked valid state registration.
As a result, the university received the maximum penalty of $10,000 per violation, totaling $40,000 under Labor Code § 1432(b). Each of the four unregistered janitorial contractors was also fined $10,000 under Labor Code § 1432(a) for operating without the required registration.
Contractors Cited
The four companies cited were:
- WFF Facility Services LLC, dba HES Facilities Management – Knoxville, TN
- TM Janitorial Services, Inc. – Tujunga, CA
- Lyncroft Advisors, Inc. – Torrance, CA
- Supreme Facilities Services LLC – Agoura Hills, CA
Background on the Janitorial Registration Program
The Janitorial Registration Program, created under the Property Service Workers Protection Act, requires janitorial employers in California to register annually with the Labor Commissioner’s Office (LCO). It also mandates in-person sexual violence and harassment prevention training every two years.
This program is designed to protect vulnerable workers by holding employers accountable, promoting fair competition, and ensuring that only legally compliant businesses operate in the janitorial industry. Registration allows the state to monitor contractors, enforce labor standards, and prevent abuse and exploitation in a sector often marked by high violation rates.
Failure to comply with the Janitorial Registration Program can result in significant financial penalties, reputational damage, and potential legal action. The program serves as a key enforcement tool for the LCO, helping to root out illegal contractors and uphold California’s strong worker protection laws.
Labor Commissioner’s Broader Enforcement Mission
The LCO, a division within the California Department of Industrial Relations, enforces wage laws and combats unfair competition. Its “Reaching Every Californian” campaign, launched in 2020, continues to raise awareness about worker rights and enforcement procedures statewide.
Workers or employers with questions can call 1-833-LCO-INFO (833-526-4636) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Source: DIR
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FAQs: Understanding California’s Janitorial Registration Program
What is the Janitorial Registration Program in California?
The Janitorial Registration Program, under the Property Service Workers Protection Act, mandates janitorial employers to register annually and provide sexual harassment training every two years to employees.
Who is liable when unregistered janitorial contractors are hired?
Both the hiring entity (e.g., a university or business) and the unregistered contractor may be held liable. Under California Labor Code §1432, penalties apply to both.
What are the consequences for failing to register janitorial companies?
Violations can lead to fines up to $10,000 per instance, reputational damage, and exclusion from state contracts. Compliance ensures lawful operations and worker protection. Read more here.
How does the Janitorial Registration Program protect workers beyond registration?
In addition to requiring registration, the program enforces standards that prevent wage theft, promote workplace safety, and ensure training on sexual violence prevention. By maintaining a verified registry and mandating ongoing education, the program helps create safer, more equitable conditions for janitorial workers—many of whom are low-wage earners at higher risk of exploitation.