ABM Industries (ABM) 10-K 17 Dec 14 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Dec. 10, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Oct-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	ABM
Entity Registrant Name	ABM INDUSTRIES INC /DE/
Entity Central Index Key	771497
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-21
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		55,749,967
Entity Public Float			$1,488,559,091

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$36.70	[1]	$32.60	[1]
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowances of $10.6 and $10.2 at October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	748.2		690.8
Prepaid expenses	65.5		64.7
Deferred income taxes, net	46.6		47.1
Other current assets	30.2		29.4
Total current assets	927.2		864.6
Other investments	32.9		32.3
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $138.6 and $127.5 at October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	83.4		77.2
Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $142.9 and $115.5 at October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	128.8		144.4
Goodwill	904.6		872.4
Other assets	116		128.3
Total assets	2,192.90		2,119.20
Current liabilities
Trade accounts payable	175.9		157.3
Accrued compensation	131.2		138.4
Accrued taxes—other than income	29.4		25.7
Insurance claims	80		84.6
Income taxes payable	2		0.1
Other accrued liabilities	107.9		102.4
Total current liabilities	526.4		508.5
Noncurrent income taxes payable	53.7		50.4
Line of credit	319.8	[2]	314.9	[2]
Deferred income tax liability, net	16.4		13.1
Noncurrent insurance claims	269.7		273.4
Other liabilities	38.1		41.4
Total liabilities	1,224.10		1,201.70
Commitments and Contingencies
Stockholders’ Equity
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 500,000 shares authorized; none issued	0		0
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 55,691,350 and 55,477,813 shares issued and outstanding at October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	0.6		0.6
Additional paid-in capital	274.1		261.8
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of taxes	-2.8		-1.7
Retained earnings	696.9		656.8
Total stockholders’ equity	968.8		917.5
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$2,192.90		$2,119.20
[1]	Cash and cash equivalents are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value.
[2]	Represents outstanding borrowings under our syndicated line of credit. Due to variable interest rates, the carrying value of outstanding borrowings under our line of credit approximates the fair value. See Note 10, “Line of Credit,” for further information.

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable, allowance	$10.60		$10.20
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation	138.6	[1]	127.5	[1]
Other intangible assets, accumulated amortization	$142.90		$115.50
Preferred stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01		$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	500,000		500,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0		0
Common stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01		$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000,000		100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	55,691,350		55,477,813
Common stock, shares outstanding	55,691,350		55,477,813
[1]	Depreciation expense for 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $30.5 million, $31.8 million, and $29.4 million, respectively.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues	$5,032.80	[1]	$4,809.30	[1]	$4,300.30	[1]
Expenses
Operating	4,513.50		4,313.40		3,854.40
Selling, general and administrative	363.9		348.3		327.8
Amortization of intangible assets	26.8		28.6		21.5
Total expenses	4,904.20		4,690.30		4,203.70
Operating profit	128.6		119		96.6
Other-than-temporary impairment credit losses on auction rate security recognized in earnings	0		0		-0.3
Income from unconsolidated affiliates, net	6.5		6.3		6.4
Interest expense	-10.7		-12.9		-10
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	124.4		112.4		92.7
Provision for income taxes	-48.8		-39.5		-30
Income from continuing operations	75.6		72.9		62.7
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	0		0		-0.1
Net income	$75.60		$72.90		$62.60
Net income per common share
Net income per common share-Basic (in usd per share)	$1.35		$1.33		$1.16
Net income per common share-Diluted (in usd per share)	$1.32		$1.30		$1.14
Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
Basic (in shares)	56.1		54.9		54
Diluted (in shares)	57.1		56.1		54.9
Dividends declared per common share (in usd per share)	$0.62		$0.60		$0.58
[1]	Substantially all of our long-lived assets are related to United States operations.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Unrealized gains on auction rate securities, Pre-tax amounts:
Unrealized gains on auction rate securities, Pre-tax amounts	$0	$0.20	$2.10
Reclassification adjustment for credit losses recognized in earnings., Pre-tax amounts	0	0	0.3
Net unrealized gains on auction rate securities earnings , Pre-tax amounts	0	0.2	2.4
Unrealized (losses) gains on interest rate swaps, Pre-tax amounts:
Unrealized (losses) gains arising during the period, Pre-tax amounts	-0.5	-0.4	-0.1
Reclassification adjustment for loss included in interest expense, Pre-tax amounts	0.5	0.5	0.1
Net unrealized (losses) gains on interest rate swaps, Pre-tax amounts	0	0.1	0
Foreign currency translation, Pre-tax amounts	-1.3	-0.2	-0.1
Defined and postretirement benefit plans adjustments, Pre-tax amounts:
Actuarial gains (losses), arising during the current year, Pre-tax amounts	0.2	0.7	-1.6
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of actuarial losses, Pre-tax amounts	0.1	0.1	0.1
Reclassification adjustment for settlement losses, Pre-tax amounts	0.1	0.1	0.1
Net defined and postretirement benefit plans adjustments, Pre-tax amounts	0.4	0.9	-1.4
Total other comprehensive income (loss), Pre-tax amounts	-0.9	1	0.9
Unrealized (losses) gains on auction rate securities, Tax expense/(benefit):
Unrealized gains on auction rate securities, Tax expense/(benefit)	0	0.1	0.9
Reclassification adjustment for credit losses recognized in earnings, Tax expense/(benefit)	0	0	0.1
Net unrealized gains on auction rate securities earnings , Tax expense/(benefit)	0	0.1	1
Unrealized gains (losses) on interest rate swaps, Tax expense/(benefit):
Unrealized (losses) gains arising during the period, Tax expense/(benefit)	-0.2	-0.2	0
Reclassification adjustment for loss included in interest expense, Tax expense/(benefit)	0.2	0.2	0
Net unrealized (losses) gains on interest rate swaps, Tax expense/(benefit)	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation, Tax expense/(benefit)	0	0	0
Defined and postretirement benefit plans adjustments, Tax expense/(benefit)
Actuarial gains (losses), arising during the current year, Tax expense/(benefit)	0.1	0.3	-0.7
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of actuarial losses, Tax expense/(benefit)	0	0.1	0.1
Reclassification adjustment for settlement losses, Tax expense/(benefit)	0.1	0	0
Net defined and postretirement benefit plans adjustments, Tax expense/(benefit)	0.2	0.4	-0.6
Total other comprehensive income (loss), Tax expense/(benefit)	0.2	0.5	0.4
Unrealized (losses) gains on auction rate securities, After-tax amounts:
Unrealized gains on auction rate securities, After-tax amounts	0	0.1	1.2
Reclassification adjustment for credit losses recognized in earnings, After-tax amounts	0	0	0.2
Net unrealized gains on auction rate securities earnings, After-tax amounts	0	0.1	1.4
Unrealized gains (losses) on interest rate swaps, After-tax amounts:
Unrealized (losses) gains arising during the period, After-tax amounts	-0.3	-0.2	-0.1
Reclassification adjustment for loss included in interest expense, After-tax amounts	0.3	0.3	0.1
Net unrealized (losses) gains on interest rate swaps, After-tax amounts	0	0.1	0
Foreign currency translation, After-tax amounts	-1.3	-0.2	-0.1
Defined and postretirement benefit plans adjustments, After-tax amounts:
Actuarial gains (losses), arising during the current year, After-tax amounts	0.1	0.4	-0.9
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of actuarial losses, After-tax amounts	0.1	0	0
Reclassification adjustment for settlement losses, After-tax amounts	0	0.1	0.1
Net defined and postretirement benefit plans adjustments, After-tax amounts	0.2	0.5	-0.8
Total other comprehensive income (loss), After-tax amounts	-1.1	0.5	0.5
Net income, After-tax amounts	75.6	72.9	62.6
Comprehensive income, After-tax amounts	$74.50	$73.40	$63.10

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Retained Earnings
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Balance, beginning of year at Oct. 31, 2011		$0.60	$211.40	($2.70)	$586.60
Balance, beginning of year (in shares) at Oct. 31, 2011		53.3
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and share-based compensation plans (in shares)		1.1
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and share-based compensation plans		0	13
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		0
Repurchase of common stock		0
Share-based compensation expense			10.2
Repurchase of common stock			0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0.5			0.5
Net income	62.6				62.6
Dividends:
Common stock					-31.3
Dividends, Share-based Compensation, Stock					-0.5
Balance, end of year at Oct. 31, 2012	850.4	0.6	234.6	-2.2	617.4
Balance, end of year (in shares) at Oct. 31, 2012		54.4
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and share-based compensation plans (in shares)		1.1
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and share-based compensation plans		0	13.9
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		0
Repurchase of common stock		0
Share-based compensation expense			13.3
Repurchase of common stock			0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0.5			0.5
Net income	72.9				72.9
Dividends:
Common stock					-32.9
Dividends, Share-based Compensation, Stock					-0.6
Balance, end of year at Oct. 31, 2013	917.5	0.6	261.8	-1.7	656.8
Balance, end of year (in shares) at Oct. 31, 2013		55.5
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and share-based compensation plans (in shares)		1
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and share-based compensation plans		0	16
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		-0.8
Repurchase of common stock		0
Share-based compensation expense			16.3
Repurchase of common stock	-20		-20
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-1.1			-1.1
Net income	75.6				75.6
Dividends:
Common stock					-34.6
Dividends, Share-based Compensation, Stock					-0.9
Balance, end of year at Oct. 31, 2014	$968.80	$0.60	$274.10	($2.80)	$696.90
Balance, end of year (in shares) at Oct. 31, 2014		55.7

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$75.60		$72.90		$62.60
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	0		0		0.1
Income from continuing operations	75.6		72.9		62.7
Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to net cash provided by continuing operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	57.3		60.4		50.9
Deferred income taxes	2.2		12.5		9.8
Share-based compensation expense	16.3		13.3		10.2
Provision for bad debt	3.2		2.8		2.6
Discount accretion on insurance claims	0.4		0.5		0.7
Auction rate security credit loss impairment	0		0		0.3
Gain on sale of assets	-1.2		-0.2		-2
Income from unconsolidated affiliates, net	-6.5		-6.3		-6.4
Distributions from unconsolidated affiliates	5.6		3		5.8
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Trade accounts receivable	-43.4		-56.8		-14.5
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-4.9		6.3		-10.1
Other assets	14.2		2.3		14.5
Income taxes payable	8.3		8.7		4.5
Other liabilities	-1.4		-5.1		-1.6
Insurance claims	-8.7		3.9		1.7
Trade accounts payable and other accrued liabilities	3.7		17.1		19.8
Total adjustments	45.1		62.4		86.2
Net cash provided by continuing operating activities	120.7		135.3		148.9
Net cash provided by discontinued operating activities	0		0		1.7
Net cash provided by operating activities	120.7		135.3		150.6
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	-37.4		-32.6		-28
Proceeds from sale of assets and other	3.6		1.2		4.2
Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired	-48.2		-199.3		-6
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates	0		-0.2		0
Proceeds from redemption of auction rate security	0		5		0
Net cash used in investing activities	-82		-225.9		-29.8
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from exercises of stock options	10		13.3		12.5
Incremental tax benefit from share-based compensation awards	5.1		0		0
Repurchases of common stock	-20		0		0
Dividends paid	-34.6		-32.9		-31.3
Deferred financing costs paid	-1.2		0		0
Borrowings from line of credit	1,089.10		1,006		773
Repayment of borrowings from line of credit	-1,084.20		-906.1		-858
Changes in book cash overdrafts	6.6		2.9		0
Repayment of capital lease obligations	-5.4		-3.5		0
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-34.6		79.7		-103.8
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	4.1		-10.9		17
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	32.6	[1]	43.5		26.5
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	36.7	[1]	32.6	[1]	43.5
Supplemental data:
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds received	32.9		18.7		15.5
Interest paid on line of credit	$6.20		$7.70		$5.30
[1]	Cash and cash equivalents are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value.

The_Company_and_Nature_of_Oper

The Company and Nature of Operations	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
The Company and Nature of Operations	THE COMPANY AND NATURE OF OPERATIONS
	ABM Industries Incorporated, together with its consolidated subsidiaries (hereinafter collectively referred to as “ABM,” “we,” “us,” “our,” or the “Company”), is a leading provider of end-to-end integrated facility solutions to thousands of commercial, industrial, institutional, retail, residential, and governmental facilities located primarily throughout the United States. Our comprehensive capabilities include expansive facility solutions, energy solutions, commercial cleaning, maintenance and repair, HVAC, electrical, landscaping, parking, security, and commercial aviation support services, which we provide through stand-alone or integrated solutions. The Company was reincorporated in Delaware on March 19, 1985, as the successor to a business founded in California in 1909.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies	BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Basis of Presentation
	The consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes (the “Financial Statements”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with current year presentation for segment reporting. See Note 16, “Segment and Geographic Information,” for more details. In addition, certain amounts in the prior year consolidated balance sheet and consolidated statements of cash flows have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. Unless otherwise noted, all references to years are to our fiscal year, which ends on October 31.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The Financial Statements include the accounts of ABM and all of our consolidated subsidiaries. The Financial Statements also include ABM’s investments in unconsolidated affiliates, as discussed in the following significant accounting policies. These investments are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires our management to make certain estimates that affect the reported amounts. We base our estimates on historical experience, known or expected trends, independent valuations, and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances based on information available as of the date of the issuance of these Financial Statements. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates.
	Significant Accounting Policies
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	We consider all investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash and cash equivalents. We present the change in book cash overdrafts (i.e., negative book cash balances that have not been presented to the bank for payment) as cash flows from financing activities.
	Trade Accounts Receivable
	Trade accounts receivable arise from services provided to our clients and are generally due and payable on terms varying from receipt of the invoice to net ninety days, excluding receivables from U.S. Government contracts, which generally have longer collection periods. Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and generally do not bear interest.
	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
	We determine the past due status of trade accounts receivable based on contractual terms with each client. We evaluate the collectability of accounts receivable and determine the appropriate allowance for doubtful accounts based on a variety of factors, including an analysis of the historical rate of credit losses or write-offs, specific client concerns, and known or expected trends. Our trade accounts receivable are reserved once an account is deemed uncollectible or after a period of twelve months, whichever is earlier, unless our management believes such amounts will ultimately be collectible. We do not believe that we have any material exposure due to either industry or regional concentrations of credit risk. Further, no client accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenues during 2014, 2013, or 2012.
	Sales Allowance
	Our sales allowance is an estimate for potential future losses on client receivables resulting from client credits. Our sales allowance is recorded as a reduction in revenues and an increase to the allowance for billing adjustments. Credits can result from client vacancy discounts, job cancellations, property damage, and other items. Our sales allowance estimate is based on an analysis of the historical rate of sales adjustments (credit memos, net of re-bills) and considers known current or expected trends.
	Other Current Assets
	At October 31, 2014 and 2013, other current assets primarily consisted of short-term insurance recoverables and other receivables.
	Other Investments
	At October 31, 2014 and 2013, other investments primarily consisted of investments in unconsolidated affiliates and investments in auction rate securities.
	Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates
	We own non-controlling interests (generally 20% to 50%) in certain affiliated entities that predominantly provide facility solutions to governmental and commercial clients, primarily in the United States and the Middle East. We account for such investments under the equity method of accounting. We evaluate our equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may not be recoverable. The differences between the carrying amounts and the estimated fair values of equity method investments are recognized as an impairment loss when the loss is deemed to be other-than-temporary. At October 31, 2014 and 2013, our investments in unconsolidated affiliates were $19.0 million and $18.0 million, respectively. We did not have any impairment losses in 2014, 2013, or 2012.
	Investments in Auction Rate Securities
	Our investments in auction rate securities are classified as available for sale. Accordingly, auction rate securities are presented at fair value with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and included in accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”). Declines in the fair value of available-for-sale securities below their cost or amortized cost that are deemed to be other-than-temporary are reflected in earnings. The credit loss component of an other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) is recorded in earnings in the period identified.
	We estimate the fair values utilizing a discounted cash flow model, which considers, among other factors, assumptions about: (1) the underlying collateral; (2) credit risks associated with the issuer; (3) contractual maturity; (4) credit enhancements associated with financial insurance guarantees, if any; and (5) assumptions about when, if ever, the security might be re-financed by the issuer or have a successful auction. We have classified all our auction rate security investments as noncurrent as we do not reasonably expect to liquidate the securities for cash within the next twelve months.
	Our determination of whether our auction rate securities are other-than-temporarily impaired is based on an evaluation of several factors, circumstances, and known or reasonably supportable trends including, but not limited to: (1) our intent to hold the securities; (2) our assessment that it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the securities before recovering our cost basis; (3) expected defaults; (4) available ratings for the securities or the underlying collateral; (5) the rating of the associated guarantor (where applicable); (6) the nature and value of the underlying collateral expected to service the investment; (7) actual historical performance of the security in servicing its obligations; and (8) actuarial experience of the underlying re-insurance arrangement (where applicable), which in certain circumstances may have preferential rights to the underlying collateral.
	Our determination of whether an OTTI represents a credit loss is based upon the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis of the security. Significant assumptions include, but are not limited to: (1) default rates for the security and the mono-line insurer, if any (which are based on published historical default rates of similar securities and consideration of current market trends); and (2) the expected life of the security (which represents our view of when market efficiencies for securities may be restored). Adverse changes in any of these factors could result in additional declines in fair value and further OTTIs in the future. See Note 6, “Auction Rate Securities,” for additional information.
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation expense includes depreciation of assets under capital leases. Assets under capital leases and leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the remaining lease term. Depreciation is determined for financial reporting purposes by using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
		Years
	Computer equipment and software	3–5
	Machinery and other equipment	3–5
	Transportation equipment	1.5–10
	Buildings	10–40
	Furniture and fixtures	5
	Repairs and maintenance are charged directly to expense as they are incurred. Major renewals or replacements that substantially extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized and depreciated.
	When assets are sold or retired, their cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated financial statements.
	Leases
	We enter into various noncancelable lease agreements for premises and equipment used in the normal course of business. We evaluate the lease agreement at the inception of the lease to determine whether the lease is an operating or capital lease. Certain of these leases include escalation clauses that adjust rental expense to reflect changes in price indices, as well as renewal options exercisable at our option. For operating leases, when such items are included in a lease agreement, we record rent expense evenly over the term of the lease. For operating leases with renewal options, we generally record rent expense on a straight-line basis over the initial noncancelable lease term. Capital leases are recorded as an asset and an obligation at an amount that is equal to the present value of the minimum lease payments over the lease term.
	Contingent rentals are applicable to leases of parking lots and garages and are primarily based on percentages of the gross receipts or other financial parameters attributable to the related facilities. Contingent rental expense is recorded in the period it becomes probable.
	We may also be required to make additional payments to reimburse the lessors for operating expenses such as real estate taxes, maintenance, utilities, and insurance, which are expensed as incurred.
	Other Intangible Assets
	Other intangible assets primarily consist of acquired customer contracts and relationships that are amortized using the sum-of-the-years’-digits method over their useful lives, consistent with the estimated useful life considerations used in the determination of their fair values. The accelerated method of amortization reflects the pattern in which the economic benefits of the customer contracts and relationships intangible assets are expected to be realized. Other non-customer acquired intangibles are amortized using a straight-line method of amortization.
	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Costs Associated With Exit Activities
	We evaluate our long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. When such events or changes in circumstances occur, a recoverability test is performed comparing projected undiscounted cash flows from the use and eventual disposition of an asset or asset group to its carrying amount. If the projected undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amount, an impairment is recorded for the excess of the carrying amount over the estimated fair value. The present value of costs associated with abandoned facilities, primarily future lease costs (net of expected sublease income), are charged to earnings when we have ceased using the specific location or when we terminate a lease contract in accordance with contractual terms.
	Goodwill
	Goodwill represents the excess purchase price of acquired businesses over the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We have elected to make the first day of our fiscal fourth quarter, August 1st, the annual impairment assessment date for goodwill. However, we could be required to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill prior to the annual assessment if we experience a significant change in the business climate, legal factors, operating performance indicators, competition, or sale or disposition of a significant portion of one of our businesses.
	We test the carrying value of goodwill for impairment at a “reporting unit” level using a two-step approach. The first step of the process is to evaluate whether the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, which is an indicator that the goodwill assigned to that reporting unit may be impaired. In this case, a second step of impairment testing is performed to allocate the fair value of the reporting unit to the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit as if it had just been acquired in a business combination, and as if the purchase price was equivalent to the fair value of the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to its assets and liabilities is referred to as the implied fair value of goodwill. The implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill is then compared to the actual carrying value of goodwill. If the implied fair value is less than the carrying value, we would be required to recognize an impairment loss for that excess.
	Other Assets
	At October 31, 2014 and 2013, other assets primarily consisted of long-term insurance recoverables, insurance and other long-term deposits, prepayments to carriers for future insurance claims, and other long-term receivables.
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	We account for certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair value is determined based on the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Authoritative guidance specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques depending on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques reflect assumptions other market participants would use based upon market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) or reflect our own assumptions of market participant valuation (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three levels:
	Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets;
	Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs or significant value-drivers are observable in active markets; and
	Level 3 – Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.
	The authoritative guidance requires the use of observable market data if such data is available without undue cost and effort. When available, we use unadjusted quoted market prices to measure fair value and classify such items within Level 1. If quoted market prices are not available, fair value is based upon internally developed models that use, where possible, current market-based or independently-sourced market parameters, such as interest and currency rates and comparable transactions. Items valued using internally generated models are classified according to the lowest level input or value driver that is significant to the valuation. Thus, an item may be classified in Level 3 even though there may be inputs that are readily observable. If quoted market prices are not available, the valuation model used generally depends on the specific asset or liability being valued.
	Some assets and liabilities are required to be recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, while other assets and liabilities are recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. See Note 5, “Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” for the fair value hierarchy table and for details on how we measure fair value for financial assets and liabilities.
	Acquisitions
	On the date of acquisition, the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the amount allocated to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. The operating results generated by the acquired businesses are included in the consolidated statements of income from their respective dates of acquisition. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred.
	Our acquisitions may include contingent consideration that requires us to recognize the fair value of the estimated contingency at the time of the acquisition. Subsequent changes in the estimate of the amount to be paid or received under contingent consideration arrangements are recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Amounts paid or received in excess of the amount recorded on the acquisition date are classified as operating activity cash flows, because the difference has entered into the determination of net income. Payments not exceeding the acquisition-date fair value of a contingent consideration liability arrangement are classified as cash flows used in financing activities.
	Insurance Reserves
	We use a combination of insured and self-insurance programs to cover workers’ compensation, general liability, property damage, and other insurable risks. Insurance claim liabilities represent our estimate of retained risks without regard to insurance coverage. Such risks consist of estimates of the loss that will ultimately be incurred on reported claims, as well as estimates of claims that have been incurred but not yet reported.
	With the assistance of third-party professionals, we periodically review our estimate of ultimate losses for “incurred but not reported” claim costs and adjust our required self-insurance reserves as appropriate. As part of this evaluation, we review the status of existing and new claim reserves as established by our third-party administrators. Our third-party administrators establish the case reserves based upon known factors related to the type and severity of the claims, demographic factors, legislative matters, and case law, as appropriate. We compare actual trends to expected trends and monitor claims developments. The specific case reserves estimated by the third-party administrators are provided to an actuary who assists us in projecting an actuarial estimate of the overall ultimate losses for our self-insured or high deductible programs, which includes the case reserves plus an actuarial estimate of reserves required for additional developments including “incurred but not reported” claim costs. We utilize the independent third-party administrator’s actuarial point estimate, reviewed by our management, to adjust our carried self-insurance reserves.
	In general, our reserves are recorded on an undiscounted basis. We allocate current-year insurance expense to our operating segments based upon their underlying exposures, while actuarial adjustments related to prior year claims are recorded within Corporate expenses. Claims are classified as current or long-term based on the expected settlement date. Estimated insurance recoveries related to recorded liabilities are reflected as assets in our consolidated balance sheets when we believe that the receipt of such amounts is probable.
Other Accrued Liabilities
At October 31, 2014 and 2013, other accrued liabilities primarily consisted of accrued employee benefits, deferred revenue, progress billings in excess of costs related to fixed-price repair and refurbishment arrangements, dividends payable, accrued legal fees and settlements, and other accrued expenses.
Other Liabilities
At October 31, 2014 and 2013, other liabilities primarily consisted of retirement plan liabilities, deferred compensation, and deferred rent.
Guarantees
We have applied the measurement and disclosure provisions outlined in the guidance related to accounting and disclosure requirements for guarantors included in Accounting Standards Codification 460, Guarantees (“ASC 460”), to agreements containing certain guarantees or certain indemnification clauses. ASC 460 requires that upon issuance of a guarantee, the guarantor must disclose and recognize a liability for the fair value of the obligation it assumes under the guarantee. As of October 31, 2014 and 2013, we did not have any material guarantees within the measurement guidance of ASC 460 that are required to be recorded at fair value.
Revenue Recognition
We earn revenue under various types of service contracts. In all forms of service provided by us, revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, services have been rendered, the fee is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. The various types of service contracts are described below.
Monthly Fixed-Price Arrangements
These arrangements are contracts in which the client agrees to pay a fixed fee every month over a specified contract term. A variation of a fixed-price arrangement is a square-foot arrangement, under which monthly billings are based on the actual square footage serviced.
Cost-Plus Arrangements
These arrangements are contracts in which the clients reimburse us for the agreed-upon amount of wages and benefits, payroll taxes, insurance charges, and other expenses associated with the contracted work, plus a profit margin.
Transaction-Price Arrangements
Transaction-price arrangements are agreements in which the clients are billed for each transaction performed on a monthly basis (e.g., wheelchair passengers served, aircrafts cleaned).
Tag Services
Tag work generally consists of supplemental services requested by clients outside of the standard service specification. Examples are cleanup after tenant moves, construction cleanup, flood cleanup, snow removal, and extermination services.
Fixed-Price Repair and Refurbishment Arrangements
Revenue is recognized on certain fixed-price repair and refurbishment arrangements using the percentage-of-completion method of accounting, most often based on the cost-to-cost method. Under the percentage-of-completion method, revenues are recognized as the work progresses. The percentage of work completed is determined principally by comparing the actual costs incurred to date with the current estimate of total costs to complete. Under the percentage-of-completion method, recognition of profit is dependent upon the accuracy of a variety of estimates, including engineering progress, achievement of milestones, incentives, labor productivity, and cost estimates. Such estimates are based on various professional judgments made with respect to those factors and are subject to change as each project proceeds and new information becomes available. Revenue and gross profit are adjusted periodically for revisions in estimated total contract costs and values. Estimated losses are recorded when identified.
Franchise Revenue
We franchise certain engineering services under the Linc Network, TEGG, CurrentSAFE, and GreenHomes America brands through individual and area franchises. Initial franchise fees are recognized when we have performed substantially all initial services required by the franchise agreement. Continuing franchise royalty fees that are based on a percentage of the franchisees’ revenues are recognized in the period in which the revenue is reported to have occurred, whereas franchise fees charged to franchisees on a flat rate are recognized as earned. Direct (incremental) costs related to new franchise sales for which the revenue has not been recognized are deferred until the related revenue is recognized. Costs related to continuing franchise royalty fees are expensed as incurred.
Parking Reimbursement
One type of arrangement within our Parking business is a managed location arrangement, whereby we manage the underlying parking facility for the owner in exchange for a management fee. For these arrangements, we pass through revenues and expenses from managed locations to the facility owner under the terms and conditions of the contract. We report revenues and expenses, in equal amounts, for costs reimbursed from our managed locations. Such amounts totaled $306.1 million, $302.4 million, and $305.7 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
Advertising
Advertising costs, which include marketing expenses related to our re-branding initiative, are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was $8.2 million, $8.0 million, and $5.9 million for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
Share-Based Compensation
Our outstanding share-based awards principally consist of restricted stock units (“RSUs”), stock options, and various performance share awards. The fair value of RSUs, stock options, and total shareholder return (“TSR”) performance share awards are expensed over the requisite service period. Other performance-based share awards are expensed over the requisite service period based on the probability of achievement of performance criteria. The fair value of RSUs and certain performance shares is determined based on the fair value of our stock price on the date of grant. We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of our stock option grants. Since our TSR performance share awards are performance awards with a market condition, the fair value of these awards are determined using a Monte Carlo simulation valuation model. We record share-based compensation expense within selling, general and administrative expenses.
Taxes Collected from Clients and Remitted to Governmental Agencies
We record taxes on client transactions due to governmental agencies as receivables and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Income Taxes
Our provision for income taxes is based on domestic and international statutory income tax rates in the tax jurisdictions where we operate, permanent differences between financial reporting and tax reporting, and available credits and incentives. Our most significant income tax jurisdiction is the United States. Differences in the timing of recognition of certain income and expenses for financial statements and for tax returns create temporary differences between financial reporting and tax filings. The tax effect of such temporary differences is reported as deferred income taxes. The deferred income taxes are classified as current or long-term based on the classification of the related asset or liability. Deferred tax assets are reviewed for recoverability quarterly. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of our management, it is more-likely-than-not that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. All or a portion of the benefit of income tax positions is recognized only when we have made a determination that it is more-likely-than-not that the tax position will be sustained upon examination, based upon the technical merits of the position and other factors. For tax positions that are determined as more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon examination, the tax benefit recognized is the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We include interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.
Net Income Per Common Share
Basic net income per common share is net income divided by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common share is based on the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the period, adjusted to include the assumed conversion of RSUs, vesting of performance shares, and exercise of stock options.
Contingencies and Litigation
We are a party to a variety of actions, proceedings, and legal, administrative, and other inquiries arising in the normal course of business relating to labor and employment, contracts, personal injury, and other matters. We accrue for loss contingencies when losses become probable and are reasonably estimable. If the reasonable estimate of the loss is a range and no amount within the range is a better estimate, the minimum amount of the range is recorded as a liability. Estimated costs of resolving contingencies, which include the use of third-party service providers, are accrued as the services are rendered.

Net_Income_Per_Common_Share

Net Income Per Common Share	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income Per Common Share	NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE
	The calculations of basic and diluted net income per common share are as follows:
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions, except per share amounts)	2014		2013		2012
	Income from continuing operations	$	75.6	$	72.9	$	62.7
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	—		—		(0.1		)
	Net income	$	75.6	$	72.9	$	62.6
	Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding—Basic	56.1		54.9		54
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	RSUs	0.4		0.5		0.3
	Stock options	0.4		0.3		0.3
	Performance shares	0.2		0.4		0.3
	Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding—Diluted	57.1		56.1		54.9
	Net income per common share
	Basic	$	1.35	$	1.33	$	1.16
	Diluted	$	1.32	$	1.3	$	1.14
	Outstanding stock awards issued under share-based compensation plans that were considered anti-dilutive for 2014, 2013, and 2012 were 0.3 million, 0.8 million, and 1.4 million, respectively.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	ACQUISITIONS
	2014 Acquisitions
	GBM Acquisition
	On October 1, 2014, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of GBM Support Services Group Limited (“GBM”), a leading provider of facilities management services for various retail, leisure, public sector, and commercial clients throughout the United Kingdom, for a purchase price of $22.7 million, which includes $3.3 million of contingent consideration (the “GBM Acquisition”). The contingent consideration will be settled upon renewal or extension of a specified customer contract, pursuant to the terms of the purchase agreement. The operations of GBM are included in the Janitorial segment as of October 1, 2014, the acquisition date.
	Airco Acquisition
	On August 1, 2014, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of Airco Commercial Services Inc. (“Airco”), a provider of HVAC services, energy solutions, and building controls in commercial and industrial buildings, for a cash purchase price of $17.8 million, subject to certain post-closing adjustments (the “Airco Acquisition”). The operations of Airco are included in the Building & Energy Solutions segment as of August 1, 2014, the acquisition date.
	Alpha Mechanical Acquisition
	Effective March 1, 2014, we acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of Alpha Mechanical, Inc. (“Alpha”) for a cash purchase price of $12.2 million (the “Alpha Acquisition”), including a $0.1 million working capital adjustment that is subject to final true up. Alpha provides specialized mechanical services in HVAC, plumbing, retrofitting, and controls in commercial and industrial buildings. The operations of Alpha are included in the Building & Energy Solutions segment as of March 1, 2014.
	2013 Acquisitions
	BEST Acquisition
	On September 1, 2013, we acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of BEST Infrared Services, Inc. (“BEST”) for an aggregate purchase price of $4.9 million, which includes a contingent consideration liability (the “BEST Acquisition”). On the acquisition date, we recorded a $1.6 million liability for the fair value of the contingent consideration, which was reduced by $0.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2014 to reflect the probable achievement of the final settlement of the contingent consideration liability. The final contingent consideration liability amount will be determined at the end of the third year following the consummation date of the acquisition. This amount will be based on a pre-defined forecasted adjusted income from operations for BEST for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2016. The contingent consideration liability will be in the form of a cash payment and could be as high as $2.0 million upon final settlement. See Note 5, “Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” regarding the valuation of the contingent consideration liability.
	The operations of BEST include a broad range of specialized commercial and industrial electrical solutions, such as inspections, system testing, power quality monitoring, hazard detection services, repairs, and ongoing predictive maintenance in commercial and industrial buildings, which are provided primarily in the southwest region of the United States. The operations of BEST are included in the Building & Energy Solutions segment as of September 1, 2013, the acquisition date.
	Blackjack Acquisition
	On August 1, 2013, we acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of Blackjack Promotions Limited (“Blackjack”) for an aggregate cash purchase price of $5.2 million (the “Blackjack Acquisition”). Blackjack provides specialized staffing and marketing services to airport operators, retailers, and other clients in the United Kingdom and Europe. The operations of Blackjack are included in the Other segment as of August 1, 2013, the acquisition date.
	Air Serv Acquisition
	On November 1, 2012, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of Air Serv Corporation (“Air Serv”) for an aggregate purchase price of $162.9 million in cash (the “Air Serv Acquisition”). Approximately $11.8 million of the cash consideration remains in an escrow account to satisfy any applicable indemnification claims, pursuant to the terms of the purchase agreement. Air Serv provides facility solutions for airlines, airports, and freight companies at airports primarily in the United States. The operations of Air Serv are primarily included in the Other segment as of November 1, 2012, the acquisition date.
	HHA Acquisition
	On November 1, 2012, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of HHA Services, Inc. (“HHA”) for an aggregate purchase price of $33.7 million in cash (the “HHA Acquisition”). HHA provides facility solutions, including housekeeping, laundry, patient assist, plant maintenance, and food services, to hospitals, healthcare systems, long-term care facilities, and retirement communities. The operations of HHA are included in the Building & Energy Solutions segment as of November 1, 2012, the acquisition date.
	Calvert-Jones Acquisition
	On November 1, 2012, we acquired substantially all of the assets and assumed certain liabilities of Calvert-Jones Company, Inc. (“Calvert-Jones”) for a cash purchase price of $6.1 million (the “Calvert-Jones Acquisition”). Calvert-Jones provides mechanical and energy efficient products and solutions in the Washington, D.C. area. The operations of Calvert-Jones are included in the Building & Energy Solutions segment as of November 1, 2012, the acquisition date.
	2012 Acquisition
	TEGG and CurrentSAFE Acquisition
	On May 1, 2012, we acquired substantially all of the assets and assumed certain liabilities of TEGG Corporation (“TEGG”) and CurrentSAFE Corporation (“CurrentSAFE”) and also acquired certain software technology from TEGG’s shareholder, for an aggregate purchase price of $5.7 million (the “TEGG Acquisition”). The acquired net assets and results from operations have been included in the Building & Energy Solutions segment since May 1, 2012, the acquisition date.
	The following table summarizes the allocation of consideration transferred to acquire Air Serv, HHA, GBM, Airco, Alpha, Calvert-Jones, TEGG, Blackjack, and BEST and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition dates. For the Airco and Alpha acquisitions, the purchase price allocations are subject to working capital adjustments and other items, within their respective measurement periods, not to exceed one year from their respective acquisition dates. For the GBM acquisition, the purchase price allocation reflects preliminary amounts of net assets acquired, including other intangible assets, which are subject to adjustments within the measurement period not to exceed one year from the acquisition date.
	(in millions)	Air Serv				HHA				GBM				Airco				Alpha			Calvert-Jones			TEGG			Blackjack				BEST
	Purchase price:
	Cash consideration	$	162.9			$	33.7			$	19.4			$	17.8			$	12.2		$	6.1		$	5.7		$	5.2			$	2.9
	Fair value of contingent consideration	—				—				3.3				—				—			—			—			—				1.6
	Holdback liability	—				—				—				—				—			—			—			—				0.4
	Total consideration	$	162.9			$	33.7			$	22.7			$	17.8			$	12.2		$	6.1		$	5.7		$	5.2			$	4.9
	Allocated to:
	Trade accounts receivable(1)	$	52.7			$	3.2			$	9.7			$	3.2			$	4.6		$	1.6		$	0.3		$	4.6		1.2	$	1.2
	Other current and noncurrent assets	16.2				2.2				5.1				1.1				0.1			0.1			0.9			0.2				—
	Property, plant and equipment	16.7				0.1				0.6				0.3				0.5			0.1			2.2			0.3				0.6
	Other intangible assets(2)	44.6				15				1.7				7.1				3.3			2.6			2.2			0.9				1.4
	Goodwill(3)	88.8				23.8				14.9				10.6				6.8			4			2			1.8				1.9
	Total assets acquired	219				44.3				32				22.3				15.3			8.4			7.6			7.8				5.1
	Liabilities assumed	(56.1		)		(10.6		)		(9.3		)		(4.5		)		(3.1		)	(2.3		)	(1.9		)	(2.6		)		(0.2		)
	Net assets acquired	$	162.9			$	33.7			$	22.7			$	17.8			$	12.2		$	6.1		$	5.7		$	5.2			$	4.9
	(1) Represents fair value of trade accounts receivable, which for each of the Air Serv and BEST acquisitions includes a $0.4 million adjustment to gross contractual amounts that are expected to be uncollectible. The fair values of trade accounts receivable acquired in the HHA, GBM, Airco, Alpha, Calvert-Jones, TEGG, and Blackjack acquisitions approximate their respective contractual amounts.
	(2) The following table summarizes the weighted-average useful lives in years of the acquired other intangible assets, consisting primarily of customer contracts and relationships for each respective acquisition:
	Air Serv		HHA		GBM		Airco		Alpha		Calvert-Jones		TEGG		Blackjack		BEST
	14		13		10		12		9		12		14		11		9
	(3) The total amount of goodwill that is deductible for tax purposes is $27.3 million.
	The amount allocated to goodwill for Air Serv, HHA, and Blackjack is reflective of our identification of buyer-specific synergies that we anticipate will be realized by, among other things, reducing duplicative positions and back office functions and by reducing professional fees and other services. Goodwill is also attributable to expected long-term business growth through the expansion of our vertical market expertise in servicing the end-to-end needs of airlines, airport authorities, and healthcare service markets. Goodwill for the GBM, Airco, Alpha, Calvert-Jones, and BEST acquisitions is attributable to projected long-term business growth through our expansion of existing vertical and geographic market offerings. Goodwill for the TEGG acquisition is attributable to the strategic initiative to expand the scope and product range of our facility solutions franchise offerings into the electrical services solutions business, providing for further expansion of this business and enhancement of comprehensive service offerings.
	Acquisition-related costs were $1.2 million during 2014 and were included in selling, general and administrative expenses in our accompanying consolidated statements of income. Pro forma and other supplemental financial information is not presented since the acquisitions made during 2014, 2013, and 2012 are not considered material business combinations individually or on a combined basis for any of those years.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
	The following table presents the fair value hierarchy, carrying amounts, and fair values of our financial instruments that are measured on a recurring basis and other select significant financial instruments as of October 31, 2014 and 2013:
			31-Oct-14				31-Oct-13
	(in millions)	Fair Value Hierarchy	Carrying Amount		Fair Value		Carrying Amount		Fair Value
	Financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
	Assets held in funded deferred compensation plan(1)	1	$	5.4	$	5.4	$	5.4	$	5.4
	Investments in auction rate securities(2)	3	13		13		13		13
			18.4		18.4		18.4		18.4
	Other select financial assets
	Cash and cash equivalents(3)	1	36.7		36.7		32.6		32.6
	Insurance deposits(4)	1	11.5		11.5		28.5		28.5
			48.2		48.2		61.1		61.1
	Total		$	66.6	$	66.6	$	79.5	$	79.5
	Financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis
	Interest rate swaps(5)	2	$	0.2	$	0.2	$	0.2	$	0.2
	Contingent consideration liability(6)	3	1.4		1.4		1.6		1.6
			1.6		1.6		1.8		1.8
	Other select financial liability
	Line of credit(7)	2	319.8		319.8		314.9		314.9
	Total		$	321.4	$	321.4	$	316.7	$	316.7
	(1) Represents investments held in a Rabbi trust associated with one of our deferred compensation plans, which we include in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value of the assets held in the funded deferred compensation plan is based on quoted market prices. See Note 11, “Employee Benefit Plans,” for further information.
	(2) For investments in auction rate securities, the fair values were based on discounted cash flow valuation models, primarily utilizing unobservable inputs, which we include in “Other investments” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 6, “Auction Rate Securities,” for the roll-forward of assets measured at fair value using significant unobservable Level 3 inputs and the sensitivity analysis of significant inputs.
	(3) Cash and cash equivalents are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value.
	(4) Represents restricted insurance deposits that are used to collateralize our insurance obligations and are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value. These insurance deposits were acquired as part of the OneSource Services Inc. acquisition, and are included in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 9, “Insurance,” for further information.
	(5) Represents interest rate swap derivatives designated as cash flow hedges. The fair values of the interest rate swaps are estimated based on the present value of the difference between expected cash flows calculated at the contracted interest rates and the expected cash flows at current market interest rates using observable benchmarks for LIBOR forward rates at the end of the period. The fair values of the interest rate swap liabilities are included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 10, “Line of Credit,” for more information.
	(6) Our contingent consideration liability was incurred in connection with the acquisition of BEST in 2013. The contingent consideration liability is measured at fair value and is included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value is based on a pre-defined forecasted adjusted income from operations using a probability weighted income approach and discounted using our fixed borrowing rate. See Note 4, “Acquisitions,” for further information.
	(7) Represents outstanding borrowings under our syndicated line of credit. Due to variable interest rates, the carrying value of outstanding borrowings under our line of credit approximates the fair value. See Note 10, “Line of Credit,” for further information.
	Our non-financial assets, which include goodwill and long-lived assets held and used, are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. However, if certain trigger events occur, or if an annual impairment test is required, we would evaluate the non-financial assets for impairment. If an impairment were to occur, the asset would be recorded at the estimated fair value, which is generally determined using discounted future cash flows.
	During 2014 and 2013, we had no transfers of assets or liabilities between any of the above hierarchy levels.

Auction_Rate_Securities

Auction Rate Securities	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Auction Rate Securities	AUCTION RATE SECURITIES
	At October 31, 2014, we held investments in auction rate securities from three different issuers having an aggregate original principal amount of $15.0 million and an amortized cost basis of $13.0 million. Our auction rate securities are debt instruments with stated maturities ranging from 2033 to 2050, for which the interest rate is designed to be reset through Dutch auctions approximately every thirty days. Auctions for these securities have not occurred since August 2007. We have classified all our auction rate security investments as noncurrent as we do not reasonably expect to liquidate the securities for cash within the next twelve months.
	Significant Assumptions used to Determine the Fair Values of our Auction Rate Securities
	Assumption	31-Oct-14		31-Oct-13
	Discount rates	L + 0.28% – L + 4.06%		L + 0.33% – L + 3.01%
	Yields	2.15%, L + 2.00%		2.15%, L + 2.00%
	Average expected lives	4 – 10 years		4 – 10 years
	L - One Month LIBOR
	Changes in the Cost Basis and Fair Value of our Auction Rate Securities as of October 31, 2014 and 2013:
	(in millions)	Amortized Cost Basis			Fair Value
					(Level 3)
	Balance at November 1, 2012	$	18		$	17.8
	Unrealized gains included in AOCL	—			0.2
	Redemption of security by issuer	(5.0		)	(5.0		)
	Balance at October 31, 2013	$	13		$	13
	Balance at October 31, 2014	$	13		$	13
	At October 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no unrealized gains or losses for auction rate securities included in AOCL. During 2014 and 2013, no OTTI credit losses were recorded in earnings. During 2012, we recorded an OTTI credit loss of $0.3 million for one of our auction rate security investments, driven primarily from a change in the expected value of cash flows to be received in the future.
	The total amount of OTTI credit loss on our auction rate security investments included in our retained earnings as of October 31, 2014 and 2013 was $2.0 million.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
	Property, Plant and Equipment
		As of October 31,
	(in millions)	2014		2013
	Computer equipment and software	$	91	$	83.9
	Machinery and other equipment	70.4		61
	Leasehold improvements	22.3		23.2
	Transportation equipment	16.8		13.6
	Buildings	10.8		11.7
	Furniture and fixtures	9.4		9.8
	Land	1.3		1.5
		222		204.7
	Less: Accumulated depreciation*	138.6		127.5
	Total	$	83.4	$	77.2
	* Depreciation expense for 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $30.5 million, $31.8 million, and $29.4 million, respectively.
	Capital Leases Included in Property, Plant and Equipment
		As of October 31,
	(in millions)	2014		2013
	Transportation equipment	$	6.9	$	6.9
	Machinery and other equipment	1.2		1.2
	Computer equipment and software	0.4		0.4
	Furniture and fixtures	0.3		0.3
		8.8		8.8
	Less: Accumulated depreciation	5.7		3.6
	Total	$	3.1	$	5.2

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Assets	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangibles Assets	GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
	Goodwill
	(in millions)	Janitorial(1)			Facility Services			Parking		Security		Building & Energy Solutions			Other(1)			Total
	Balance at October 31, 2012	$	467.4		$	72.6		$	69.2	$	49.9	$	90.2		$	2.3		$	751.6
	Acquisition adjustments(2)	5.9			—			—		—		29.5			85.3			120.7
	Foreign currency translation	—			—			—		—		—			0.1			0.1
	Balance at October 31, 2013	$	473.3		$	72.6		$	69.2	$	49.9	$	119.7		$	87.7		$	872.4
	Acquisition adjustments(2)	15.3			—			—		—		17.7			(0.6		)	32.4
	Foreign currency translation	(0.2		)	—			—		—		—			—			(0.2		)
	Balance at October 31, 2014	$	488.4		$	72.6		$	69.2	$	49.9	$	137.4		$	87.1		$	904.6
	(1) In connection with the transfer of certain operations between our Other segment and our Janitorial segment, we reallocated goodwill between the segments to align goodwill with the activities conducted in the respective segments.
	(2) Goodwill related to acquisitions is discussed in Note 4, “Acquisitions.”
	Other Intangible Assets
		31-Oct-14								31-Oct-13
	(in millions)	Gross Carrying Amount			Accumulated Amortization			Total		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Total
	Customer contracts and relationships	$	265.3		$	(137.8	)	$	127.5	$	253.8	$	(112.1	)	$	141.7
	Trademarks and trade names	4.5			(3.7		)	0.8		4.2		(2.2		)	2
	Contract rights and other	1.9			(1.4		)	0.5		1.9		(1.2		)	0.7
	Total	$	271.7		$	(142.9	)	$	128.8	$	259.9	$	(115.5	)	$	144.4
	Estimated annual amortization expense for each of the next five years
	(in millions)	2015			2016			2017		2018		2019			Total
	Estimated amortization expense*	$	24.4		$	21.2		$	18.7	$	15.9	$	13.3		$	93.5
	* These amounts may vary as acquisitions of additional intangible assets occur in the future and as purchase price allocations are finalized for existing acquisitions. Refer to Note 4, “Acquisitions,” for more information.

Insurance

Insurance	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Insurance [Abstract]
Insurance	INSURANCE
	We use a combination of insured and self-insurance programs to cover workers’ compensation, general liability, property damage, and other insurable risks. For the majority of these insurance programs, we retain the initial $1.0 million of exposure on a per-claim basis either through deductibles or self-insured retentions. Beyond the retained exposures, we have varying primary policy limits between $1.0 million and $5.0 million per occurrence. To cover general liability losses above these primary limits, we maintain commercial insurance umbrella policies that provide aggregate limits of $200.0 million. Our insurance policies generally cover workers’ compensation losses to the full extent of statutory requirements. Additionally, to cover property damage risks above our retained limits, we maintain policies that provide limits of $75.0 million. We are also self-insured for certain employee medical and dental plans. We retain up to $0.4 million of exposure on a per-claim basis with respect to claims under our medical plan.
	During 2014, annual actuarial evaluations were performed for the majority of our casualty insurance programs, including those related to certain previously acquired businesses. For 2014, the evaluations showed a reduction in our 2014 total Occupational Safety and Health Act reportable incidents, which was evidenced by favorable trends during the year.
	For certain years prior to 2014, the evaluations showed unfavorable developments in certain general liability, automobile liability, and workers’ compensation claims.
	Certain general liability claims related to earlier years reflected a loss development that was measurably higher than previously estimated. The majority of the adverse impact seen in the general liability program was the result of claims developments in California and New York. A similar trend was also experienced in our automobile liability program, which was largely attributable to considerable unfavorable changes in a few cases within our automobile liability claim pool.
	In California, a jurisdiction in which we maintain a significant presence, the workers’ compensation claims development patterns warranted an unfavorable adjustment to our insurance reserves relating to various years prior to 2014. Conversely, the workers’ compensation loss patterns in states other than California warranted a favorable adjustment relating to various years prior to 2014, which largely offset the adverse development experienced in California. In response to California’s challenging workers’ compensation environment, we have engaged third-party resources to assist us in resolving claims at an accelerated pace, where feasible.
	After analyzing the recent loss development patterns, comparing the loss development against benchmarks, and applying actuarial projection methods to determine the estimate of ultimate losses relating to years prior to 2014, we increased our expected reserves by $11.5 million during 2014. Insurance reserve adjustments resulting from periodic actuarial evaluations relating to prior years during 2013 and 2012 were increases to the reserve in the amounts of $10.6 million and $7.3 million, respectively.
	We had insurance claim reserves totaling $349.7 million and $358.0 million at October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The balance at October 31, 2014 and 2013 includes $4.8 million and $7.0 million in reserves, respectively, related to our medical and dental self-insured plans. We also had insurance recoverables totaling $66.4 million and $68.7 million at October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The adequacy of insurance claims reserves is based upon actuarial estimates of required reserves considering the most recently completed actuarial reports and known events.
	We had the following standby letters of credit, surety bonds, and restricted insurance deposits outstanding at October 31, 2014 and 2013, to collateralize our insurance obligations:
		October 31,
	(in millions)	2014		2013
	Standby letters of credit	$	111.1	$	97.7
	Surety bonds	52.5		40.5
	Restricted insurance deposits	11.5		28.5
	Total	$	175.1	$	166.7

Line_of_Credit

Line of Credit	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Line of Credit	LINE OF CREDIT
	On November 30, 2010, we entered into a five-year syndicated credit agreement (“Credit Agreement”) that provided for revolving loans, swing line loans, and letters of credit up to an aggregate amount of $650.0 million (the “Facility”). During 2011, the Credit Agreement was amended to reduce the borrowing spread interest on loans, extend the maturity date to September 8, 2016, and revise certain defined terms. On December 11, 2013, the Credit Agreement was further amended to increase the aggregate amount of the Facility from $650.0 million to $800.0 million and extend the maturity date to December 11, 2018. At our option, we may increase the size of the Facility to $1.0 billion at any time prior to the expiration date (subject to receipt of commitments for the increased amount from existing and new lenders). In connection with this amendment, the pricing for standby letters of credit fees can be reduced based upon certain threshold restrictions. Additionally, our commitment fee on the average daily unused portion of our Facility decreased by 0.025%. Financial covenants and interest rates were not changed by this amendment.
	Borrowings under the Facility bear interest at a rate equal to an applicable margin plus, at our option, either a (i) eurodollar rate (generally LIBOR) or (ii) base rate determined by reference to the highest of (1) the federal funds rate plus 0.50%, (2) the prime rate published by Bank of America, N.A. from time to time, and (3) the eurodollar rate plus 1.00%. The applicable margin is a percentage per annum varying from zero to 0.75% for base rate loans and 1.00% to 1.75% for eurodollar loans, based upon our leverage ratio.
	We also pay a commitment fee, based on the leverage ratio, payable quarterly in arrears, ranging from 0.200% to 0.275% on the average daily unused portion of the Facility. For purposes of this calculation, irrevocable standby letters of credit, issued primarily in conjunction with our insurance programs, and cash borrowings are included as outstanding under the Facility.
	The Credit Agreement contains certain leverage and liquidity covenants that require us to maintain a maximum leverage ratio of 3.25 to 1.0 at the end of each fiscal quarter, a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.50 to 1.0 at any time, and a consolidated net worth in an amount not less than the sum of (i) $570.0 million, (ii) 50% of our consolidated net income (with no deduction for net loss), and (iii) 100% of our aggregate increases in stockholders’ equity, beginning on November 30, 2010, each as further described in the Credit Agreement, as amended. We were in compliance with all covenants as of October 31, 2014.
	If an event of default occurs under the Credit Agreement, including certain cross-defaults, insolvency, change in control, or violation of specific covenants, among others, the lenders can terminate or suspend our access to the Facility, declare all amounts outstanding under the Facility (including all accrued interest and unpaid fees) to be immediately due and payable, and require that we cash collateralize the outstanding standby letters of credit obligations.
	The Facility is available for working capital, the issuance of up to $300.0 million for standby letters of credit, the issuance of up to $50.0 million in swing line advances, the financing of capital expenditures, and other general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and investments in subsidiaries, subject to certain limitations, if applicable. At October 31, 2014, the total outstanding amounts under the Facility in the form of cash borrowings and standby letters of credit were $319.8 million and $114.9 million, respectively. As of October 31, 2013, the total outstanding amounts under the Facility in the form of cash borrowings and standby letters of credit were $314.9 million and $100.6 million, respectively.
	At October 31, 2014 and 2013, we had up to $365.3 million and $234.5 million borrowing capacity, respectively, under the Facility, the availability of which is subject to, and is limited by, compliance with the covenants described above.
	Interest Rate Swaps
	During 2013, we entered into a series of interest rate swap agreements with effective start dates of March 18, 2013 and April 11, 2013 totaling an underlying aggregate notional amount of $155.0 million, pursuant to which we receive variable interest payments based on LIBOR and pay fixed interest at rates ranging from 0.44% to 0.47%. These interest rate swaps will mature between March 18, 2016 and April 11, 2016 and are structured to hedge the interest rate risk associated with our floating-rate, LIBOR-based borrowings under our Facility. The swaps were designated and accounted for as cash flow hedges from inception.
	We recognize all interest rate swaps on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at fair value. The fair values of the interest rate swaps are estimated based on the present value of the difference between expected cash flows calculated at the contracted interest rates and the expected cash flows at current market interest rates using observable benchmarks for LIBOR forward rates at the end of the period. See Note 5, “Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” for more information.
	Each of the swap derivatives is designated as a cash flow hedge, and the effective portion of the derivative’s mark-to-market gain or loss is initially reported as a component of AOCL and subsequently reclassified into earnings when the hedged transactions occur and affect earnings. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss is reported in earnings immediately. Interest payables and receivables under the swap agreements are accrued and recorded as adjustments to interest expense.
	At each of October 31, 2014 and 2013, the amount recorded in AOCL was $0.2 million ($0.1 million, net of taxes). Amounts expected to be reclassified from AOCL to earnings during the next twelve months were $0.1 million at October 31, 2014.

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans

12 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Employee Benefit Plans

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Defined Benefit Plans

We provide benefits to certain employees under various defined benefit and postretirement benefit plans (collectively, the “Plans”). The Plans were previously amended to preclude new participants. All but one of the Plans are unfunded. As of October 31, 2014 and 2013, we recorded aggregate net obligations of $8.2 million and $10.0 million, respectively, for the Plans. The projected benefit obligations in the aggregate for the Plans was $16.0 million and $17.6 million, as of October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The fair value of the Plans was $7.8 million and $7.6 million, as of October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. At October 31, 2014, approximately 53% of Plan assets were invested in equities, 30% in fixed income, and 17% in cash. The expected return on assets was $0.5 million, $0.4 million, and $0.5 million during 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The aggregate net periodic benefit cost for all the Plans was $0.4 million for both 2014 and 2013 and $0.5 million for 2012. Future benefit payments in the aggregate are expected to be $10.3 million.

Deferred Compensation Plans

We maintain various deferred compensation plans that permit eligible employees and directors to defer a portion of their compensation. The total long-term liability of all deferred compensation was $17.8 million and $17.0 million as of October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and these amounts are included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Under one of our deferred compensation plans, a Rabbi trust was created to fund the obligations, and we are required to contribute a portion of the deferred compensation contributions for eligible participants. The assets held in the Rabbi trust are not available for general corporate purposes. The fair value of these assets at each of October 31, 2014 and 2013 was $5.4 million and was included in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Aggregate expense recognized under these deferred compensation plans was $0.5 million for 2014 and $0.4 million for both 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Defined Contribution Plans

We sponsor five defined contribution plans covering certain employees, including four 401(k) plans that are subject to the applicable provisions of ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code (“IRC”). Certain plans permit a company match of a portion of the participant’s contributions or a discretionary contribution after the participant has met the eligibility requirements set forth in the plan. We made matching contributions required by the plans during 2014, 2013, and 2012 of $10.8 million, $9.9 million, and $9.0 million, respectively.

Multiemployer Pension and Postretirement Plans

Multiemployer Defined Benefit Pension Plans

Certain of our union-represented employees are covered by multiemployer defined benefit pension plans. Multiemployer pension plans are different from single-employer pension plans, in the following respects:

•

Contributions to multiemployer pension plans by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers;

•

If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, some or all of the unfunded obligations pertaining to the departing employer may be allocated to the remaining participating employers; and

•

Certain events could result in a requirement that we pay amounts to a plan based on the underfunded status of the plan, commonly referred to as a “withdrawal liability.”

The information in the following tables relates to multiemployer defined benefit pension plans that we have determined to be individually significant to us. To determine individually significant plans, we evaluated several factors, including our total contributions to the plan, our significance to the plan in terms of participating employees and contributions, and the funded status of the plan.

The following table provides information about the funded status of individually significant plans:

•

The “EIN/PN” column provides the Employee Identification Number and the three-digit plan number assigned to the plan by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).

•

The most recent Pension Protection Act Zone Status available as of October 31, 2014 and 2013 is for plan years indicated in the table below. The zone status is based on information provided to us and other participating employers by each plan and is certified by the plan’s actuary. A plan in the “red” zone has been determined to be in “critical status,” based on criteria established under the IRC, and is generally less than 65% funded. A plan in the “yellow” zone has been determined to be in “endangered status” based on criteria established under the IRC, and is generally less than 80% funded. A plan in the “green” zone has been determined to be neither in “critical status” nor in “endangered status” and is generally at least 80% funded.

•

The “FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented” column indicates whether a Financial Improvement Plan (“FIP”), as required under the IRC to be adopted by plans in the “yellow” zone, or a Rehabilitation Plan (“RP”), as required under the IRC to be adopted by plans in the “red” zone, is pending or has been implemented.

•

Contributions by the Company are the amounts contributed by us in 2014, 2013, and 2012.

•

The “Surcharge Imposed” column indicates whether our contribution rate in 2014 included an amount in addition to the contribution rate specified in the applicable collective bargaining agreement, as imposed by a plan in “critical status,” in accordance with the requirements of the IRC.

•

The last column lists the expiration dates of the collective bargaining agreements pursuant to which the Company contributes to the plans.

For plans that are not individually significant to us, the total amount of contributions is presented in the aggregate.

(in millions)

Pension Protection Act Zone Status

FIP/RP Status

Contributions by the Company

Surcharge Imposed

Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements

Pension Fund

EIN/PN

2014

2013

Pending/

2014

2013

2012

Implemented

Building Service 32BJ Pension Fund

13-1879376 / 001

Red

Red

Implemented

$

14.3

$

13.7

$

14.6

No

12/31/15

6/30/14

6/30/14

Central Pension Fund of the IUOE & Participating Employers

36-6052390 /001

Green

Green

N/A*

9.8

9.7

10.2

N/A*

3/5/2015–10/31/2016

1/31/14

1/31/13

Local 25 SEIU & Participating Employers Pension Trust

36-6486542 / 001

Green

Green

N/A*

6.8

7.4

7.5

N/A*

4/5/2015–4/24/2016

9/30/13

9/30/12

S.E.I.U. National Industry Pension Fund

52-6148540 / 001

Red

Red

Implemented

5.9

5.3

4.2

Yes

6/30/2015–12/31/2016

12/31/13

12/31/12

IUOE Stationary Engineers Local 39 Pension Fund

94-6118939 / 001

Green

Green 12/31/2012

N/A*

5.6

5.2

5.7

N/A*

1/31/2016–2/28/2018

12/31/13

Local 68 Engineers Union Pension Plan

51-0176618 / 001

Yellow

Green

Implemented

3.2

2.7

3.1

N/A*

6/15/2015- 8/31/2018

6/30/13

6/30/12

Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ, District 36 Building Operators Pension Trust Fund

23-6546776 / 001

Yellow

Yellow

Implemented

1.8

2

2.1

N/A*

10/15/15

12/31/14

12/31/13

IUOE Local 30 Pension Fund

51-6045848 / 001

Green

Green 12/31/2012

N/A*

1.3

1.4

1.6

N/A*

12/31/14

12/31/13

Other Plans

14.2

11.9

9.7

Total Contributions

$

62.9

$

59.3

$

58.7

*

Not applicable

We were listed in the most currently available Forms 5500 of the following plans as providing more than 5 percent of total contributions for the plan years presented below.

Pension Fund

Contributions to the plan exceeded more than 5% of total contributions

(as of the Plan’s year end)

Building Service 32BJ Pension Fund

6/30/2013, 6/30/2012, and 6/30/2011

Building Service Pension Plan*

4/30/2013, 4/30/2012, and 4/30/2011

Contract Cleaners Service Employees’ Pension Plan*

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and 12/31/2011

IUOE Local 30 Pension Fund

12/31/2012 and 12/31/2011

IUOE Stationary Engineers Local 39 Pension Fund

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and 12/31/2011

Local 1102 Amalgamated Pension Fund*

12/31/2012 and 12/31/2011

Local 210’s Pension Plan*

12/31/2013 and 12/31/2012

Local 25 SEIU & Participating Employers Pension Trust

9/30/2013, 9/30/2012, and 9/30/2011

Massachusetts Service Employees Pension Fund*

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and 12/31/2011

S.E.I.U. National Industry Pension Fund

12/31/2013 and 12/31/2012

Service Employees International Union Local 1 Cleveland Pension Plan*

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and12/31/2011

Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ, District 36 Building Operators Pension Trust Fund

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and12/31/2011

Teamsters Local 617 Pension Fund*

2/28/2013, 2/29/2012, and 2/28/2011

* These plans are not separately listed in our multiemployer table as they represent an insignificant portion of our total multiemployer pension plan contributions.

There have been no significant changes that affect the comparability of total contributions for any of the periods presented.

Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

ABM contributes to several multiemployer plans that provide other postretirement benefits based on obligations arising under collective bargaining agreements covering union-represented employees. These plans may provide medical, pharmacy, dental, vision, mental health, and other benefits to active employees as determined by the trustees of each plan. Our contributions to such plans were $220.0 million, $204.9 million, and $196.7 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. There have been no significant changes that affect the comparability of total contributions for any of the periods presented.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
	Lease Commitments
	Future Minimum Payments under our Noncancelable Operating and Capital Lease Agreements
	(in millions)	Capital		Operating (1)
	31-Oct-15	$	2	$	77.7
	31-Oct-16	0.7		55.3
	31-Oct-17	0.1		46.4
	31-Oct-18	—		35.1
	31-Oct-19	—		19.9
	Thereafter	—		32.3
	Total minimum lease commitments (2)	$	2.8	$	266.7
	(1) Sublease rental income was immaterial for all periods presented and is expected to be immaterial in the future.
	(2) Our capital lease obligation includes total imputed interest of $0.1 million for a present value of minimum lease payments of $2.7 million.
	Rental Expense
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014		2013		2012
	Minimum rentals	$	107.4	$	104	$	101.5
	Contingent rentals	28.5		30.2		32.5
	Total	$	135.9	$	134.2	$	134
	Surety Bonds and Letters of Credit
	We use surety bonds or letters of credit to secure certain commitments related to insurance programs and for other purposes. As of October 31, 2014, these surety bonds and letters of credit totaled approximately $339.7 million and $114.9 million, respectively. Included in the total amount of surety bonds is $6.9 million of bonds with an effective date starting after October 31, 2014.
	Guarantees
	In some instances, we offer certain clients guaranteed energy savings under certain energy savings contracts. Total guarantees were $30.4 million at October 31, 2014 and extend through 2029. Total guarantees were $37.0 million at October 31, 2013 and extend through 2028. We accrue for the estimated cost of guarantees when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Historically, we have not incurred any losses in connection with these guarantees.
	Indemnifications
	We are party to a variety of agreements under which we may be obligated to indemnify the other party for certain matters. Primarily, these agreements are standard indemnification arrangements entered into in our ordinary course of business. Pursuant to these arrangements, we may agree to indemnify, hold harmless, and reimburse the indemnified parties for losses suffered or incurred by the indemnified party, generally our clients, in connection with any claims arising out of the services that we provide. We also incur costs to defend lawsuits or settle claims related to these indemnification arrangements, and in most cases these costs are paid from our insurance program. The terms of these indemnification arrangements are generally perpetual. Although we attempt to place limits on this indemnification reasonably related to the size of the contract, the maximum obligation may not be explicitly stated and, as a result, the maximum potential amount of future payments we could be required to make under these arrangements is not determinable.
	Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may require us to indemnify our directors and officers against liabilities that may arise by reason of their status as such and to advance their expenses incurred as a result of any legal proceeding against them as to which they could be indemnified. The overall amount of these obligations cannot be reasonably estimated; however, we believe that any loss under these obligations would not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
	Legal Matters
	We are a party to a variety of actions, proceedings, and legal, administrative, and other inquiries arising in the normal course of business relating to labor and employment, contracts, personal injury, and other matters, some of which allege substantial monetary damages. Some of these actions may be brought as a class action on behalf of a purported class of employees. Litigation outcomes are difficult to predict and are often resolved over long periods of time. Estimating probable losses requires the analysis of multiple possible outcomes that often depend on judgments about potential actions by third parties.
	At October 31, 2014, the total amount accrued for all probable litigation losses where a reasonable estimate of the loss could be made was $5.1 million. This $5.1 million includes the accrual of $3.4 million in connection with an unfavorable arbitration decision against us relating to a contract dispute with a third-party administrator, which was paid on November 7, 2014.
	We do not accrue for contingent losses that, in our judgment, are considered to be reasonably possible but not probable. Estimating reasonably possible losses also requires the analysis of multiple possible outcomes that often depend on judgments about potential actions by third parties. Our management currently estimates that the range of loss for all reasonably possible losses for which an estimate can be made is between zero and $98.8 million, including the possible $94.2 million impact of the Augustus case described below. Factors underlying this estimated range of loss may change from time to time, and actual results may vary significantly from this estimate.
	In some cases, although a loss is probable or reasonably possible, we cannot reasonably estimate the maximum potential losses for probable matters or the range of losses for reasonably possible matters. Therefore, our accrual for probable losses and our estimated range of loss for reasonably possible losses do not represent our maximum possible exposure.
	While the results of these proceedings, claims, and inquiries cannot be predicted with any certainty, our management believes that the final outcome of the foregoing will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial statements, results of operations, or cash flows.
	Certain Legal Proceedings
	Certain pending lawsuits to which we are a party are discussed below. In determining whether to include any particular lawsuit or other proceeding, we consider both quantitative and qualitative factors, including, but not limited to: the amount of damages and the nature of any other relief sought in the proceeding; if such damages and other relief are specified, our view of the merits of the claims; whether the action purports to be a class action, and our view of the likelihood that a class will be certified by the court; the jurisdiction in which the proceeding is pending; and the potential impact of the proceeding on our reputation.
	The Consolidated Cases of Augustus, Hall and Davis v. American Commercial Security Services, filed July 12, 2005, in the Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County (the “Augustus case”)
	The Augustus case is a certified class action involving allegations that we violated certain California state laws relating to rest breaks. On February 8, 2012, the plaintiffs filed a motion for summary judgment on the rest break claim, which sought damages in the amount of $103.1 million, and we filed a motion for decertification of the class. On July 6, 2012, the Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County (the “Superior Court”), heard plaintiffs’ motion for damages on the rest break claim and our motion to decertify the class. On July 31, 2012, the Superior Court denied our motion and entered judgment in favor of plaintiffs in the amount of approximately $89.7 million. This $89.7 million is included in the range of loss for all reasonably possible losses described above. The $89.7 million amount did not include plaintiffs’ attorneys’ fees. We filed a notice of appeal with the Court of Appeal of the State of California, Second Appellate District (the “Appeals Court”), on August 29, 2012. The plaintiffs filed three separate motions for attorneys’ fees with the Superior Court. One motion sought attorneys’ fees from the common fund. (The common fund refers to the approximately $89.7 million judgment entered in favor of the plaintiffs.) The other two motions sought attorneys’ fees from us in an aggregate amount of approximately $12.4 million. On October 12, 2012, we filed oppositions to the two fee motions seeking attorneys’ fees from us with the Superior Court. On January 14, 2013, the Superior Court heard all three fee motions and it granted plaintiffs’ fee motion with respect to the common fund in full. The Superior Court denied one fee motion in its entirety and reduced the other fee motion to approximately $4.5 million. This $4.5 million is included in the range of loss for all reasonably possible losses described above. We strongly disagree with the decisions of the Superior Court with respect to both the underlying case and the award of attorneys’ fees and costs. We firmly believe that we have complied with applicable law. We appealed the Superior Court’s rulings to the Appeals Court, and on October 21, 2014, the Appeals Court heard oral arguments. The Appeals Court is expected to issue its decision on or before January 19, 2015.
	Bojorquez v. ABM Industries Incorporated and ABM Janitorial Services–Northern California, Inc., filed on January 13, 2010, in the San Francisco Superior Court (the “Bojorquez case”)
	We are a defendant in the Bojorquez case. Plaintiff brought suit for sexual harassment, retaliation, and failure to prevent harassment and discrimination. On May 17, 2012, a jury awarded the plaintiff approximately $0.8 million in damages. We have appealed this decision. On April 11, 2013, the Court awarded plaintiff attorneys’ fees in the amount of $2.5 million. If we prevail in our appeal of the jury’s verdict, the Court’s award of plaintiff’s attorneys’ fees will be reversed.
	The Consolidated Cases of Bucio and Martinez v. ABM Janitorial Services filed on April 7, 2006, in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (the “Bucio case”)
	The Bucio case is a purported class action involving allegations that we failed to track work time and provide breaks. On April 19, 2011, the trial court held a hearing on plaintiffs’ motion to certify the class. At the conclusion of that hearing, the trial court denied plaintiffs’ motion to certify the class. On May 11, 2011, the plaintiffs filed a motion to reconsider, which was denied. The plaintiffs have appealed the class certification issues. The trial court stayed the underlying lawsuit pending the decision in the appeal. On August 30, 2012, the plaintiffs filed their appellate brief on the class certification issues. We filed our responsive brief on November 15, 2012. Oral argument relating to the appeal has not been scheduled.
	We expect to prevail in these ongoing cases. However, as litigation is inherently unpredictable, there can be no assurance in this regard. If the plaintiffs in one or more of these cases, or other cases, do prevail, the results may have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
	Other
	During October 2011, we began an internal investigation into matters relating to compliance with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and our internal policies in connection with services provided by a foreign entity affiliated with a former joint venture partner of The Linc Group, LLC (“Linc”). Such services commenced prior to the acquisition of Linc. As a result of the investigation, we caused Linc to terminate its association with the arrangement. In December 2011, we contacted the U.S. Department of Justice and the SEC to voluntarily disclose the results of our internal investigation to date, and we are cooperating with the government’s investigation. We cannot reasonably estimate the potential liability, if any, related to these matters. However, based on the facts currently known, we do not believe that these matters will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Preferred_and_Common_Stock

Preferred and Common Stock	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Preferred and Common Stock	PREFERRED AND COMMON STOCK
	Preferred Stock
	We are authorized to issue 500,000 shares of preferred stock. None of these preferred shares are issued.
	Common Stock
	On September 5, 2012, our Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program authorizing up to $50.0 million in share repurchases. During 2014, we purchased 0.8 million shares of our common stock at an average price of $26.2 per share for a total of $20.0 million. Any repurchased shares are retired and returned to an authorized but unissued status.

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans

Share-Based Compensation Plans	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation Plans	SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
	We use various share-based compensation plans to provide incentives for our key employees and directors. Currently, these incentives primarily consist of RSUs, stock options, and various performance shares. The following table summarizes our total compensation expense and related income tax benefit in connection with our share-based compensation plans for 2014, 2013, and 2012.
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014				2013				2012
	Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	$	16.3			$	13.3			$	10.2
	Income tax benefit	(6.8		)		(5.5		)		(4.2		)
		$	9.5			$	7.8			$	6
	The total shares issued upon the exercise of options under all share-based compensation plans were 974,399 shares, 1,031,867 shares, and 967,123 shares for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $3.8 million, $4.1 million, and $2.7 million for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The total fair value of shares that vested during 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $9.0 million, $7.6 million, and $5.9 million, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value of shares granted during 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $27.7, $19.7, and $16.8, respectively.
	On May 2, 2006, our stockholders approved the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Equity Plan”). The 2006 Equity Plan was amended in March 2009 and March 2012 to increase the total shares of common stock authorized for issuance to 10,279,265. At October 31, 2014, 1,230,628 shares of common stock were available for grant for future equity-based compensation awards under the plan.
	The 2006 Equity Plan is an omnibus plan that provides for a variety of equity and equity-based award vehicles, including stock options, stock appreciation rights, RSUs, performance shares, and other share-based awards. Shares subject to awards that terminate without vesting or exercise are available for future awards under the 2006 Equity Plan. Certain of the awards under the 2006 Equity Plan may qualify as “performance-based” compensation under the IRC.
	Prior to the adoption of the 2006 Equity Plan, equity awards were made under the Executive Stock Option Plan (the “Age-Vested Plan”), the Time-Vested Incentive Stock Option Plan (the “Time-Vested Plan”), and the 2002 Price-Vested Performance Stock Option Plan (the “Price-Vested Plan”). These plans are collectively referred to as the “Prior Plans.” No further grants can be made under the Prior Plans. The terms and conditions governing existing options under the Prior Plans will continue to apply to the options outstanding under those plans.
	In 2014, we began issuing TSR-based performance share awards. These TSR awards will be earned on the basis of our total shareholder return measured against the total shareholder return of companies in the Standard & Poor’s Small Cap 600 Index (“S&P 600”) over a three-year period.
	2006 Equity Plan
	RSUs and Dividend Equivalent Rights
	We award RSUs to eligible employees and our directors (each, a “Grantee”) that entitle the Grantee to receive shares of our common stock as the units vest based on service. In general, the receipt of RSUs is subject to the Grantee’s continuing employment or service as a director, as the case may be. RSUs granted to eligible employees generally vest with respect to 50% of the underlying award on the second and fourth anniversary of the award. RSUs granted to directors vest over three years. Compensation expense is recognized ratably over the Grantee’s service period.
	RSUs are credited with dividend equivalent rights that are converted to RSUs at the fair market value of our common stock on the dates the dividend payments are made and are subject to the same terms and conditions as the underlying award.
	RSU activity during 2014 is summarized below:
		Number of Shares (in millions)			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share
	Nonvested at November 1, 2013	1.4			$	21.7
	Granted	0.3			27.8
	Vested (including 0.1 shares withheld for income taxes)	(0.2	)		19.8
	Forfeited	(0.1	)		22.2
	Nonvested at October 31, 2014	1.4			$	23.4
	Vested at October 31, 2014	0.2			$	20.1
	Total unrecognized compensation cost (net of estimated forfeitures) related to nonvested RSUs at October 31, 2014 was $18.5 million. The cost is expected to be expensed ratably over a weighted-average vesting period of 2.8 years. The aggregate intrinsic value of the nonvested and vested RSUs as of October 31, 2014 was $38.0 million and $4.5 million, respectively.
	Stock Options
	Typically, stock options vest and become exercisable at a rate of 25% per year beginning one year after date of grant. However, terms of stock options can vary, and certain stock options granted on March 31, 2010 and January 10, 2011 will vest on the fifth anniversary of the award. Options typically expire seven years after the date of grant. Forfeitures are estimated on the date of grant based on historical forfeiture rates. The adjustment of the forfeiture rate may result in a cumulative adjustment in any period in which it is changed.
	Stock option activity during 2014 is summarized below:
		Number of Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share				Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
		(in millions)
	Outstanding at November 1, 2013	1.6			$	21.6
	Exercised	(0.4	)		20.9
	Outstanding at October 31, 2014	1.2			$	21.8			3.8		$	7.2
	Exercisable at October 31, 2014	0.5			$	20.2			3.7		$	3.5
	Total unrecognized share-based compensation cost (net of estimated forfeitures) related to nonvested stock option awards at October 31, 2014 was $2.5 million. The cost is expected to be expensed ratably over a weighted-average vesting period of 2.0 years.
	Performance Shares and Dividend Equivalent Rights
	Performance shares consist of a contingent right to receive shares of our common stock based on performance targets adopted by our Compensation Committee. Performance shares are credited with dividend equivalent rights that will be converted to performance shares at the fair market value of our common stock beginning after the performance targets have been satisfied and are subject to the same terms and conditions as the underlying award.
	For certain performance share awards, the number of performance shares that will vest is based on pre-established internal financial performance targets and typically a three-year service and performance period. Vesting of 0% to 150% of the indicated shares may occur depending on the extent to which internal targets are achieved. For TSR awards, the number of performance shares that will vest is based on our total shareholder return relative to the S&P 600 over the respective three-year performance period. Vesting of 0% to 150% of the awards originally granted may occur depending on our relative total shareholder return performance over the performance period.
	Performance share activity, including TSR performance shares awarded during 2014, is summarized below:
		Number of Shares (in millions)			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share
	Nonvested at November 1, 2013	0.9			$	22.3
	Granted	0.4			27.7
	Vested (including 0.1 shares withheld for income taxes)	(0.2	)		25
	Nonvested at October 31, 2014	1.1			$	23.9
	Total unrecognized compensation cost (net of estimated forfeitures) related to all nonvested performance shares at October 31, 2014 was $10.1 million. The cost is expected to be expensed ratably over a weighted-average vesting period of 1.9 years. Except for TSR performance shares, these costs are based on estimated achievement of performance targets and estimated costs will be reevaluated periodically. For our TSR performance shares, these costs are based on the fair value of awards at the grant date and are recognized on a straight-line basis over the service period of 3 years.
	The aggregate intrinsic value of the nonvested and vested performance shares as of October 31, 2014 was $29.5 million and $0.2 million, respectively.
	Method of Accounting and Our Assumptions
	In prior years, we used the Black-Scholes options-pricing model to estimate the grant date fair value of stock option grants. In 2014, we used the Monte Carlo simulation valuation technique to estimate the fair value of the TSR performance share grants. The assumptions used in the Monte Carlo simulation model for 2014 and the Black-Scholes options-pricing model for 2013 and 2012 are shown in the table below.
		Monte Carlo				Black-Scholes				Black-Scholes
		2014				2013				2012
	Expected life(1)	2.15 years				5.37 years				5.6 years
	Expected stock price volatility(2)	19		%		38.8		%		41.6		%
	Expected dividend yield(3)	2.4		%		2.4		%		3		%
	Risk-free interest rate(4)	0.6		%		1.8		%		0.8		%
	Stock price(5)	$	26.6			N/A*				N/A*
	Weighted average fair value of option grants	N/A				$	7.5			$	5.3
	*	Not Applicable
	(1) For TSR awards valued under the Monte Carlo simulation model, the expected life represents the remaining performance period of the awards. For stock options valued under the Black-Scholes options-pricing model, the expected life is based on observed historical exercise patterns of the previously granted options adjusted to reflect the change in vesting and expiration dates.
	(2) For the Monte Carlo simulation model, the expected volatility for each grant is determined based on the historical volatility of our common stock over a period equal to the remaining term of the performance period from the date of grant for all awards. For the Black-Scholes options-pricing model, the expected volatility is based on considerations of implied volatility from publicly traded and quoted options on our common stock and the historical volatility of our common stock.
	(3) The dividend yield is based on the historical dividend yield over the expected life of the awards granted.
	(4) For the Monte Carlo simulation and Black-Scholes options-pricing models, the risk-free interest rate is based on the continuous compounded yield on U.S. Treasury Constant Maturity Rates. For TSR awards valued under the Monte Carlo simulation model, the remaining term is determined over a period of time that is commensurate with the performance period from the grant date. For stock option awards valued under the Black-Scholes options-pricing models, the remaining term is equal to the expected term of the option.
	(5) The stock price is the closing price of our common stock on the valuation date.
	Prior Plans
	Age-Vested Plan
Under the Age-Vested Plan, options are exercisable for 50% of the shares when the stock option holders reach their 61st birthdays and the remaining 50% become exercisable on their 64th birthdays. To the extent vested, the stock options may be exercised at any time prior to one year after termination of employment. Effective as of December 9, 2003, no further grants may be made under the plan.
Time-Vested Plan
Under the Time-Vested Plan, the stock options become exercisable at a rate of 20% of the shares per year beginning one year after the date of grant and expire ten years plus one month after the date of grant. As of May 2, 2006, no further grants are authorized under this plan.
Price-Vested Plan
Under the Price-Vested Plan, pre-defined vesting prices provide for accelerated vesting. If at the end of four years any of the stock price performance targets are not achieved, then the remaining stock options vest at the end of eight years from the date the stock options were granted. There have been no grants under this plan since the year ended October 31, 2005, therefore the remaining outstanding stock options vested on October 31, 2013, the eighth anniversary of the award. Stock options vesting during the first year following grant do not become exercisable until after the first anniversary of grant. The stock options expire ten years after the date of grant. As of May 2, 2006, no further grants are authorized.
The combined plan activity for the Prior Plans during 2014 is summarized below:
	Number of Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share				Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
	(in millions)
Outstanding at November 1, 2013	0.8			$	17.3
Exercised	(0.2	)		18.9
Outstanding at October 31, 2014	0.6			$	16.8			17.8		$	6.2
Exercisable at October 31, 2014	0.4			$	18.2			9.2		$	3.6
Total unrecognized compensation cost (net of estimated forfeitures) related to nonvested stock options under the Age-Vested Plan at October 31, 2014 was $0.3 million. The cost is expected to be expensed ratably over a weighted-average vesting period of 7.6 years. As of October 31, 2014, all outstanding stock options under the Time-Vested and Price-Vested Plans are vested.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
On March 9, 2004, our stockholders approved the 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan”). The 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan was amended in March 2010 to increase the total shares of common stock authorized for issuance to 3,000,000. Effective May 1, 2006, the plan is no longer considered compensatory and the values of the awards are no longer treated as share-based compensation expense. Additionally, as of that date, the purchase price became 95% of the fair value of our common stock price on the last trading day of the month. Employees may designate up to 10% of their compensation for the purchase of stock, subject to a $25,000 annual limit. Employees are required to hold their shares for a minimum of six months from the date of purchase.
The weighted average fair values of the purchase rights granted under the 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended were $1.4 during 2014 and $1.1 during both of the years 2013 and 2012. During 2014, 2013, and 2012, 165,062 shares, 186,271 shares, and 200,108 shares of stock were issued under the plan at a price of $25.8, $21.3, and $19.9, respectively. The aggregate purchases were $4.3 million during 2014 and $4.0 million during both 2013 and 2012. At October 31, 2014, 402,881 shares remained unissued under the plan.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	INCOME TAXES
	Components of Income Tax Provision
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014				2013				2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	36.2			$	15.3			$	9.7
	State	9.1				10.9				10.5
	Foreign	1.3				0.8				—
	Deferred:
	Federal	0.8				10				11.1
	State	1.4				2.5				(1.3		)
		$	48.8			$	39.5			$	30
	Reconciliation of the U.S. Statutory Tax Rate to Annual Effective Tax Rate
		Years Ended October 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Tax rate reconciliation:
	Statutory rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	6.5	%		6.5	%		6.5	%
	Federal and state tax credits	(2.6	)%		(8.6	)%		(5.5	)%
	Impact of change in state tax rate	0.1	%		0.5	%		1.2	%
	Changes in uncertain tax positions	(1.7	)%		(1.4	)%		(7.2	)%
	Nondeductible expenses and other, net	1.9	%		3.1	%		2.4	%
	Annual effective tax rate	39.2	%		35.1	%		32.4	%
	The effective tax rate for 2014 was higher than the rate for 2013 primarily due to (a) the expiration of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (“WOTC”) as of December 31, 2013 and (b) the retroactive reinstatement of the WOTC for calendar year 2012, which occurred during the year ended October 31, 2013.
	The effective tax rate for 2013 was higher than the rate for 2012 due to a tax benefit included in 2012 of $6.9 million related to a re-measurement of certain unrecognized tax benefits and discrete adjustments of $1.9 million for employment-based tax credits. The impact of these benefits was partially offset by discrete tax benefits during 2013 of $4.1 million related to a retroactive reinstatement of federal employment-based tax credits.
	Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
		As of October 31,
	(in millions)	2014				2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Self-insurance claims (net of recoverables)	$	113			$	114.9
	Deferred and other compensation	35.6				33.6
	Accounts receivable allowances	3.7				3.9
	Settlement liabilities	2				0.6
	Other accruals	3.6				2.3
	Other comprehensive income	1.2				1.4
	State taxes	0.8				0.7
	State net operating loss carryforwards	7.1				8.1
	Tax credits	5.1				6.1
	Other	0.9				1
		173				172.6
	Valuation allowance	(6.2		)		(6.2		)
	Total deferred tax assets	166.8				166.4
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Property, plant and equipment	(1.1		)		(5.5		)
	Goodwill and other acquired intangibles	(135.5		)		(126.9		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	(136.6		)		(132.4		)
	Net deferred tax assets	$	30.2			$	34
	Operating Loss Carryforwards
	Operating loss carryforwards totaling $10.9 million at October 31, 2014 are being carried forward in a number of state jurisdictions where we are permitted to use tax operating losses from prior periods to reduce future taxable income. These operating losses will expire between 2015 and 2034. The valuation allowance represents the amount of tax benefits related to state net operating loss carryforwards that our management believes are not likely to be realized. We believe the remaining net deferred tax assets are more likely than not to be realizable based on estimates of future taxable income.
	Unrecognized Tax Benefits
	At October 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, there was $78.6 million, $80.9 million, and $81.6 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized in the future, would impact our effective tax rate. We estimate that a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits of up to approximately $8.0 million is reasonably possible over the next twelve months. At October 31, 2014 and 2013, accrued interest and penalties were $2.2 million and $1.3 million, respectively, During 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recognized interest and penalties of $0.9 million, $0.2 million, and $0.2 million, respectively.
	Reconciliation of Total Unrecognized Tax Benefits
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014				2013				2012
	Balance at beginning of year	$	87.6			$	88.4			$	95.9
	Additions for tax positions related to the current year	1.4				1.7				0.6
	Reductions for tax positions related to the current year	—				(0.6		)		—
	Additions for tax positions related to prior years	—				0.6				0.9
	Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	—				(0.1		)		(7.3		)
	Reductions for expiration of statute of limitations	(3.2		)		(1.5		)		(0.1		)
	Settlements	(0.3		)		(0.9		)		(1.6		)
	Balance as of October 31	$	85.5			$	87.6			$	88.4
	Jurisdictions
	We conduct business in all 50 states, significantly in California, Texas, and New York, as well as in various foreign jurisdictions. Our most significant income tax jurisdiction is the United States. The following table summarizes by entity the tax years that are either currently being examined or remain open for examination:
Entity	Open by statute
ABM state tax returns*	10/31/2010 – 10/31/2014
ABM federal tax returns	10/31/2011 – 10/31/2014
Air Serv	6/30/2011 – 10/31/2012
HHA	12/31/2011 – 10/31/2012
* We are currently being examined by the taxing authorities in the states of New Jersey and Michigan.

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa

Segment and Geographic Information	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment and Geographic Information	SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
	Segment Information
	Our reportable segments consist of: Janitorial, Facility Services, Parking, Security, Building & Energy Solutions, and Other. The accounting policies for our segments are the same as those disclosed within our significant accounting policies in Note 2, “Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies.” Our management evaluates the performance of each reportable segment based on its respective operating profit results, which include the allocation of certain centrally incurred costs. Corporate expenses not allocated to segments, among other items, include:
	•	certain CEO and other finance and human resource departmental costs;
	•	certain information technology costs;
	•	share-based compensation costs;
	•	certain legal costs and settlements;
	•	adjustments resulting from current actuarial developments of self-insurance reserves related to claims incurred in prior years; and
	•	direct acquisition costs.
	Effective in the first quarter of 2014, certain operations were transferred between our Janitorial segment and our Other segment to better align activities conducted in the respective segments. The net impact of these changes on the reported revenues and operating profit for 2013 was a reclassification of $15.1 million and $0.8 million, respectively, from our Other segment to our Janitorial segment. The impact of these changes on the reported revenues and operating profit for 2012 was a reclassification of $3.8 million and $0.6 million, respectively, from our Janitorial segment to our Other segment. Additionally, certain sales and marketing costs associated with initiatives to expand our energy and government services were transferred from Corporate to our Building & Energy Solutions segment, resulting in a reclassification of expenses of $3.4 million and $2.1 million from Corporate to the Building & Energy Solutions segment for 2013 and 2012, respectively. Prior-period segment results have been restated to conform to these changes.
	Financial Information by Reportable Segment
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	Revenues:
	Janitorial	$	2,583.20		$	2,480.50		$	2,390.60
	Facility Services	599.3			609.4			576.1
	Parking	616.1			609.1			615.1
	Security	383.1			381.5			365.9
	Building & Energy Solutions	483.8			401.5			348.3
	Other	367.3			326.4			3.8
	Corporate	—			0.9			0.5
		$	5,032.80		$	4,809.30		$	4,300.30
	Operating profit:
	Janitorial	$	144.4		$	135.4		$	135.4
	Facility Services	26.9			27.4			23.1
	Parking	30.9			27.5			26.2
	Security	12.5			13			7.8
	Building & Energy Solutions	23.1			15.3			10.2
	Other	12.2			11.8			0.6
	Corporate	(114.8		)	(105.2		)	(103.3		)
	Adjustment for income from unconsolidated affiliates, net, included in Building & Energy Solutions	(6.6		)	(6.2		)	(3.4		)
		128.6			119			96.6
	Other-than-temporary impairment credit losses on auction rate security recognized in earnings	—			—			(0.3		)
	Income from unconsolidated affiliates, net	6.5			6.3			6.4
	Interest expense	(10.7		)	(12.9		)	(10.0		)
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes	$	124.4		$	112.4		$	92.7
	Total assets:*
	Janitorial	$	952.8		$	887.5		$	861.2
	Facility Services	198.8			211.3			214.6
	Parking	140.6			141.9			153.6
	Security	116			112.7			111.3
	Building & Energy Solutions	334.9			296.2			232.1
	Other	224.4			231.9			2.6
	Corporate	225.4			237.7			275.4
		$	2,192.90		$	2,119.20		$	1,850.80
	* Excludes assets of discontinued operations of $0.4 million as of October 31, 2012.
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Janitorial	$	17.9		$	18		$	18
	Facility Services	3.9			4.4			5
	Parking	2.9			3.2			3.5
	Security	0.9			1			1.2
	Building & Energy Solutions	11.4			11.3			8.8
	Other	11.9			11.5			—
	Corporate	8.4			11			14.4
		$	57.3		$	60.4		$	50.9
	Capital expenditures:
	Janitorial	$	13.2		$	14.7		$	12.4
	Facility Services	0.1			—			—
	Parking	2.2			2.5			2.2
	Security	—			0.2			0.2
	Building & Energy Solutions	3.1			1.2			0.8
	Other	5.1			2.4			—
Corporate	13.7			11.6			12.4
	$	37.4		$	32.6		$	28
Geographic Information Based on the Country in Which the Sale Originated
	Years Ended October 31,
(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
Revenues:*
United States	$	4,902.50		$	4,703.00		$	4,243.00
All other countries	130.3			106.3			57.3
	$	5,032.80		$	4,809.30		$	4,300.30
* Substantially all of our long-lived assets are related to United States operations.

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
		Fiscal Quarter
	(in millions, except per share amounts)	First		Second		Third		Fourth
	Year ended October 31, 2014
	Revenues	$	1,226.50	$	1,231.30	$	1,276.10	$	1,298.90
	Gross profit	118		127.9		131.4		142
	Net income	13.1		15.2		19.4		27.9
	Net income per common share—Basic	0.23		0.27		0.34		0.5
	Net income per common share—Diluted	0.23		0.27		0.34		0.49
	Year ended October 31, 2013
	Revenues	$	1,182.10	$	1,173.60	$	1,216.80	$	1,236.80
	Gross profit	114.2		125.4		121.1		135.2
	Net income	13.4		19.3		16		24.2
	Net income per common share—Basic	0.25		0.35		0.29		0.44
	Net income per common share—Diluted	0.24		0.35		0.29		0.43

Schedule_IIValuation_and_Quali

Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
	(in millions)	Balance		Charges to	Write-offs* / Allowance Taken		Balance
		Beginning of Year		Costs and Expenses			End of Year
	2014
	Accounts receivable allowances	$	10.2	18.5	(18.1	)	$	10.6
	Deferred tax asset valuation allowances	6.2		0.3	(0.3	)	6.2
	2013
	Accounts receivable allowances	11.1		21	(21.9	)	10.2
	Deferred tax asset valuation allowances	6		0.8	(0.6	)	6.2
	2012
	Accounts receivable allowances	13.5		14.6	(17.0	)	11.1
	Deferred tax asset valuation allowances	5.8		0.5	(0.3	)	6
	* Write-offs are net of recoveries

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign1

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation
	The consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes (the “Financial Statements”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with current year presentation for segment reporting. See Note 16, “Segment and Geographic Information,” for more details. In addition, certain amounts in the prior year consolidated balance sheet and consolidated statements of cash flows have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. Unless otherwise noted, all references to years are to our fiscal year, which ends on October 31.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation
	The Financial Statements include the accounts of ABM and all of our consolidated subsidiaries. The Financial Statements also include ABM’s investments in unconsolidated affiliates, as discussed in the following significant accounting policies. These investments are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires our management to make certain estimates that affect the reported amounts. We base our estimates on historical experience, known or expected trends, independent valuations, and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances based on information available as of the date of the issuance of these Financial Statements. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	We consider all investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash and cash equivalents. We present the change in book cash overdrafts (i.e., negative book cash balances that have not been presented to the bank for payment) as cash flows from financing activities.
Trade Accounts Receivable	Trade Accounts Receivable
	Trade accounts receivable arise from services provided to our clients and are generally due and payable on terms varying from receipt of the invoice to net ninety days, excluding receivables from U.S. Government contracts, which generally have longer collection periods. Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and generally do not bear interest.
	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
	We determine the past due status of trade accounts receivable based on contractual terms with each client. We evaluate the collectability of accounts receivable and determine the appropriate allowance for doubtful accounts based on a variety of factors, including an analysis of the historical rate of credit losses or write-offs, specific client concerns, and known or expected trends. Our trade accounts receivable are reserved once an account is deemed uncollectible or after a period of twelve months, whichever is earlier, unless our management believes such amounts will ultimately be collectible
Sales Allowance	Sales Allowance
	Our sales allowance is an estimate for potential future losses on client receivables resulting from client credits. Our sales allowance is recorded as a reduction in revenues and an increase to the allowance for billing adjustments. Credits can result from client vacancy discounts, job cancellations, property damage, and other items. Our sales allowance estimate is based on an analysis of the historical rate of sales adjustments (credit memos, net of re-bills) and considers known current or expected trends.
Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates	Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates
	We own non-controlling interests (generally 20% to 50%) in certain affiliated entities that predominantly provide facility solutions to governmental and commercial clients, primarily in the United States and the Middle East. We account for such investments under the equity method of accounting. We evaluate our equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may not be recoverable. The differences between the carrying amounts and the estimated fair values of equity method investments are recognized as an impairment loss when the loss is deemed to be other-than-temporary.
Investments in Auction Rate Securities	Investments in Auction Rate Securities
	Our investments in auction rate securities are classified as available for sale. Accordingly, auction rate securities are presented at fair value with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and included in accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”). Declines in the fair value of available-for-sale securities below their cost or amortized cost that are deemed to be other-than-temporary are reflected in earnings. The credit loss component of an other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) is recorded in earnings in the period identified.
	We estimate the fair values utilizing a discounted cash flow model, which considers, among other factors, assumptions about: (1) the underlying collateral; (2) credit risks associated with the issuer; (3) contractual maturity; (4) credit enhancements associated with financial insurance guarantees, if any; and (5) assumptions about when, if ever, the security might be re-financed by the issuer or have a successful auction. We have classified all our auction rate security investments as noncurrent as we do not reasonably expect to liquidate the securities for cash within the next twelve months.
	Our determination of whether our auction rate securities are other-than-temporarily impaired is based on an evaluation of several factors, circumstances, and known or reasonably supportable trends including, but not limited to: (1) our intent to hold the securities; (2) our assessment that it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the securities before recovering our cost basis; (3) expected defaults; (4) available ratings for the securities or the underlying collateral; (5) the rating of the associated guarantor (where applicable); (6) the nature and value of the underlying collateral expected to service the investment; (7) actual historical performance of the security in servicing its obligations; and (8) actuarial experience of the underlying re-insurance arrangement (where applicable), which in certain circumstances may have preferential rights to the underlying collateral.
	Our determination of whether an OTTI represents a credit loss is based upon the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis of the security. Significant assumptions include, but are not limited to: (1) default rates for the security and the mono-line insurer, if any (which are based on published historical default rates of similar securities and consideration of current market trends); and (2) the expected life of the security (which represents our view of when market efficiencies for securities may be restored). Adverse changes in any of these factors could result in additional declines in fair value and further OTTIs in the future. See Note 6, “Auction Rate Securities,” for additional information.
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation expense includes depreciation of assets under capital leases. Assets under capital leases and leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the remaining lease term. Depreciation is determined for financial reporting purposes by using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
		Years
	Computer equipment and software	3–5
	Machinery and other equipment	3–5
	Transportation equipment	1.5–10
	Buildings	10–40
	Furniture and fixtures	5
	Repairs and maintenance are charged directly to expense as they are incurred. Major renewals or replacements that substantially extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized and depreciated.
	When assets are sold or retired, their cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated financial statements.
Leases	Leases
	We enter into various noncancelable lease agreements for premises and equipment used in the normal course of business. We evaluate the lease agreement at the inception of the lease to determine whether the lease is an operating or capital lease. Certain of these leases include escalation clauses that adjust rental expense to reflect changes in price indices, as well as renewal options exercisable at our option. For operating leases, when such items are included in a lease agreement, we record rent expense evenly over the term of the lease. For operating leases with renewal options, we generally record rent expense on a straight-line basis over the initial noncancelable lease term. Capital leases are recorded as an asset and an obligation at an amount that is equal to the present value of the minimum lease payments over the lease term.
	Contingent rentals are applicable to leases of parking lots and garages and are primarily based on percentages of the gross receipts or other financial parameters attributable to the related facilities. Contingent rental expense is recorded in the period it becomes probable.
	We may also be required to make additional payments to reimburse the lessors for operating expenses such as real estate taxes, maintenance, utilities, and insurance, which are expensed as incurred.
Other Intangible Assets	Other Intangible Assets
	Other intangible assets primarily consist of acquired customer contracts and relationships that are amortized using the sum-of-the-years’-digits method over their useful lives, consistent with the estimated useful life considerations used in the determination of their fair values. The accelerated method of amortization reflects the pattern in which the economic benefits of the customer contracts and relationships intangible assets are expected to be realized. Other non-customer acquired intangibles are amortized using a straight-line method of amortization.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Costs Associated With Exit Activities	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Costs Associated With Exit Activities
	We evaluate our long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. When such events or changes in circumstances occur, a recoverability test is performed comparing projected undiscounted cash flows from the use and eventual disposition of an asset or asset group to its carrying amount. If the projected undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amount, an impairment is recorded for the excess of the carrying amount over the estimated fair value. The present value of costs associated with abandoned facilities, primarily future lease costs (net of expected sublease income), are charged to earnings when we have ceased using the specific location or when we terminate a lease contract in accordance with contractual terms.
Goodwill	Goodwill
	Goodwill represents the excess purchase price of acquired businesses over the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We have elected to make the first day of our fiscal fourth quarter, August 1st, the annual impairment assessment date for goodwill. However, we could be required to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill prior to the annual assessment if we experience a significant change in the business climate, legal factors, operating performance indicators, competition, or sale or disposition of a significant portion of one of our businesses.
	We test the carrying value of goodwill for impairment at a “reporting unit” level using a two-step approach. The first step of the process is to evaluate whether the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, which is an indicator that the goodwill assigned to that reporting unit may be impaired. In this case, a second step of impairment testing is performed to allocate the fair value of the reporting unit to the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit as if it had just been acquired in a business combination, and as if the purchase price was equivalent to the fair value of the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to its assets and liabilities is referred to as the implied fair value of goodwill. The implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill is then compared to the actual carrying value of goodwill. If the implied fair value is less than the carrying value, we would be required to recognize an impairment loss for that excess.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	We account for certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair value is determined based on the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Authoritative guidance specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques depending on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques reflect assumptions other market participants would use based upon market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) or reflect our own assumptions of market participant valuation (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three levels:
	Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets;
	Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs or significant value-drivers are observable in active markets; and
	Level 3 – Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.
	The authoritative guidance requires the use of observable market data if such data is available without undue cost and effort. When available, we use unadjusted quoted market prices to measure fair value and classify such items within Level 1. If quoted market prices are not available, fair value is based upon internally developed models that use, where possible, current market-based or independently-sourced market parameters, such as interest and currency rates and comparable transactions. Items valued using internally generated models are classified according to the lowest level input or value driver that is significant to the valuation. Thus, an item may be classified in Level 3 even though there may be inputs that are readily observable. If quoted market prices are not available, the valuation model used generally depends on the specific asset or liability being valued.
	Some assets and liabilities are required to be recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, while other assets and liabilities are recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. See Note 5, “Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” for the fair value hierarchy table and for details on how we measure fair value for financial assets and liabilities.
Acquisitions	Acquisitions
	On the date of acquisition, the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the amount allocated to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. The operating results generated by the acquired businesses are included in the consolidated statements of income from their respective dates of acquisition. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred.
	Our acquisitions may include contingent consideration that requires us to recognize the fair value of the estimated contingency at the time of the acquisition. Subsequent changes in the estimate of the amount to be paid or received under contingent consideration arrangements are recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Amounts paid or received in excess of the amount recorded on the acquisition date are classified as operating activity cash flows, because the difference has entered into the determination of net income. Payments not exceeding the acquisition-date fair value of a contingent consideration liability arrangement are classified as cash flows used in financing activities.
Insurance Reserves	Insurance Reserves
	We use a combination of insured and self-insurance programs to cover workers’ compensation, general liability, property damage, and other insurable risks. Insurance claim liabilities represent our estimate of retained risks without regard to insurance coverage. Such risks consist of estimates of the loss that will ultimately be incurred on reported claims, as well as estimates of claims that have been incurred but not yet reported.
	With the assistance of third-party professionals, we periodically review our estimate of ultimate losses for “incurred but not reported” claim costs and adjust our required self-insurance reserves as appropriate. As part of this evaluation, we review the status of existing and new claim reserves as established by our third-party administrators. Our third-party administrators establish the case reserves based upon known factors related to the type and severity of the claims, demographic factors, legislative matters, and case law, as appropriate. We compare actual trends to expected trends and monitor claims developments. The specific case reserves estimated by the third-party administrators are provided to an actuary who assists us in projecting an actuarial estimate of the overall ultimate losses for our self-insured or high deductible programs, which includes the case reserves plus an actuarial estimate of reserves required for additional developments including “incurred but not reported” claim costs. We utilize the independent third-party administrator’s actuarial point estimate, reviewed by our management, to adjust our carried self-insurance reserves.
	In general, our reserves are recorded on an undiscounted basis. We allocate current-year insurance expense to our operating segments based upon their underlying exposures, while actuarial adjustments related to prior year claims are recorded within Corporate expenses. Claims are classified as current or long-term based on the expected settlement date. Estimated insurance recoveries related to recorded liabilities are reflected as assets in our consolidated balance sheets when we believe that the receipt of such amounts is probable.
Other Accrued Liabilities	Other Accrued Liabilities
	At October 31, 2014 and 2013, other accrued liabilities primarily consisted of accrued employee benefits, deferred revenue, progress billings in excess of costs related to fixed-price repair and refurbishment arrangements, dividends payable, accrued legal fees and settlements, and other accrued expenses.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition
	We earn revenue under various types of service contracts. In all forms of service provided by us, revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, services have been rendered, the fee is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. The various types of service contracts are described below.
	Monthly Fixed-Price Arrangements
	These arrangements are contracts in which the client agrees to pay a fixed fee every month over a specified contract term. A variation of a fixed-price arrangement is a square-foot arrangement, under which monthly billings are based on the actual square footage serviced.
	Cost-Plus Arrangements
	These arrangements are contracts in which the clients reimburse us for the agreed-upon amount of wages and benefits, payroll taxes, insurance charges, and other expenses associated with the contracted work, plus a profit margin.
	Transaction-Price Arrangements
	Transaction-price arrangements are agreements in which the clients are billed for each transaction performed on a monthly basis (e.g., wheelchair passengers served, aircrafts cleaned).
	Tag Services
	Tag work generally consists of supplemental services requested by clients outside of the standard service specification. Examples are cleanup after tenant moves, construction cleanup, flood cleanup, snow removal, and extermination services.
	Fixed-Price Repair and Refurbishment Arrangements
	Revenue is recognized on certain fixed-price repair and refurbishment arrangements using the percentage-of-completion method of accounting, most often based on the cost-to-cost method. Under the percentage-of-completion method, revenues are recognized as the work progresses. The percentage of work completed is determined principally by comparing the actual costs incurred to date with the current estimate of total costs to complete. Under the percentage-of-completion method, recognition of profit is dependent upon the accuracy of a variety of estimates, including engineering progress, achievement of milestones, incentives, labor productivity, and cost estimates. Such estimates are based on various professional judgments made with respect to those factors and are subject to change as each project proceeds and new information becomes available. Revenue and gross profit are adjusted periodically for revisions in estimated total contract costs and values. Estimated losses are recorded when identified.
	Franchise Revenue
	We franchise certain engineering services under the Linc Network, TEGG, CurrentSAFE, and GreenHomes America brands through individual and area franchises. Initial franchise fees are recognized when we have performed substantially all initial services required by the franchise agreement. Continuing franchise royalty fees that are based on a percentage of the franchisees’ revenues are recognized in the period in which the revenue is reported to have occurred, whereas franchise fees charged to franchisees on a flat rate are recognized as earned. Direct (incremental) costs related to new franchise sales for which the revenue has not been recognized are deferred until the related revenue is recognized. Costs related to continuing franchise royalty fees are expensed as incurred.
	Parking Reimbursement
	One type of arrangement within our Parking business is a managed location arrangement, whereby we manage the underlying parking facility for the owner in exchange for a management fee. For these arrangements, we pass through revenues and expenses from managed locations to the facility owner under the terms and conditions of the contract. We report revenues and expenses, in equal amounts, for costs reimbursed from our managed locations.
Advertising	Advertising
	Advertising costs, which include marketing expenses related to our re-branding initiative, are expensed as incurred.
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation
	Our outstanding share-based awards principally consist of restricted stock units (“RSUs”), stock options, and various performance share awards. The fair value of RSUs, stock options, and total shareholder return (“TSR”) performance share awards are expensed over the requisite service period. Other performance-based share awards are expensed over the requisite service period based on the probability of achievement of performance criteria. The fair value of RSUs and certain performance shares is determined based on the fair value of our stock price on the date of grant. We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of our stock option grants. Since our TSR performance share awards are performance awards with a market condition, the fair value of these awards are determined using a Monte Carlo simulation valuation model. We record share-based compensation expense within selling, general and administrative expenses.
Taxes Collected from Clients and Remitted to Governmental Agencies	Taxes Collected from Clients and Remitted to Governmental Agencies
	We record taxes on client transactions due to governmental agencies as receivables and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	Our provision for income taxes is based on domestic and international statutory income tax rates in the tax jurisdictions where we operate, permanent differences between financial reporting and tax reporting, and available credits and incentives. Our most significant income tax jurisdiction is the United States. Differences in the timing of recognition of certain income and expenses for financial statements and for tax returns create temporary differences between financial reporting and tax filings. The tax effect of such temporary differences is reported as deferred income taxes. The deferred income taxes are classified as current or long-term based on the classification of the related asset or liability. Deferred tax assets are reviewed for recoverability quarterly. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of our management, it is more-likely-than-not that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. All or a portion of the benefit of income tax positions is recognized only when we have made a determination that it is more-likely-than-not that the tax position will be sustained upon examination, based upon the technical merits of the position and other factors. For tax positions that are determined as more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon examination, the tax benefit recognized is the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We include interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.
Net Income Per Common Share	Net Income Per Common Share
	Basic net income per common share is net income divided by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common share is based on the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the period, adjusted to include the assumed conversion of RSUs, vesting of performance shares, and exercise of stock options.
Contingencies and Litigation	Contingencies and Litigation
	We are a party to a variety of actions, proceedings, and legal, administrative, and other inquiries arising in the normal course of business relating to labor and employment, contracts, personal injury, and other matters. We accrue for loss contingencies when losses become probable and are reasonably estimable. If the reasonable estimate of the loss is a range and no amount within the range is a better estimate, the minimum amount of the range is recorded as a liability. Estimated costs of resolving contingencies, which include the use of third-party service providers, are accrued as the services are rendered.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign2

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Estimated Useful Lives of Property, Plant and Equipment	Depreciation is determined for financial reporting purposes by using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
		Years
	Computer equipment and software	3–5
	Machinery and other equipment	3–5
	Transportation equipment	1.5–10
	Buildings	10–40
	Furniture and fixtures	5

Net_Income_Per_Common_Share_Ta

Net Income Per Common Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Calculations of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Share	The calculations of basic and diluted net income per common share are as follows:
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions, except per share amounts)	2014		2013		2012
	Income from continuing operations	$	75.6	$	72.9	$	62.7
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	—		—		(0.1		)
	Net income	$	75.6	$	72.9	$	62.6
	Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding—Basic	56.1		54.9		54
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	RSUs	0.4		0.5		0.3
	Stock options	0.4		0.3		0.3
	Performance shares	0.2		0.4		0.3
	Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding—Diluted	57.1		56.1		54.9
	Net income per common share
	Basic	$	1.35	$	1.33	$	1.16
	Diluted	$	1.32	$	1.3	$	1.14

Acquisitions_Tables

Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Final Purchase Price and Related Allocations
	(in millions)	Air Serv				HHA				GBM				Airco				Alpha			Calvert-Jones			TEGG			Blackjack				BEST
	Purchase price:
	Cash consideration	$	162.9			$	33.7			$	19.4			$	17.8			$	12.2		$	6.1		$	5.7		$	5.2			$	2.9
	Fair value of contingent consideration	—				—				3.3				—				—			—			—			—				1.6
	Holdback liability	—				—				—				—				—			—			—			—				0.4
	Total consideration	$	162.9			$	33.7			$	22.7			$	17.8			$	12.2		$	6.1		$	5.7		$	5.2			$	4.9
	Allocated to:
	Trade accounts receivable(1)	$	52.7			$	3.2			$	9.7			$	3.2			$	4.6		$	1.6		$	0.3		$	4.6		1.2	$	1.2
	Other current and noncurrent assets	16.2				2.2				5.1				1.1				0.1			0.1			0.9			0.2				—
	Property, plant and equipment	16.7				0.1				0.6				0.3				0.5			0.1			2.2			0.3				0.6
	Other intangible assets(2)	44.6				15				1.7				7.1				3.3			2.6			2.2			0.9				1.4
	Goodwill(3)	88.8				23.8				14.9				10.6				6.8			4			2			1.8				1.9
	Total assets acquired	219				44.3				32				22.3				15.3			8.4			7.6			7.8				5.1
	Liabilities assumed	(56.1		)		(10.6		)		(9.3		)		(4.5		)		(3.1		)	(2.3		)	(1.9		)	(2.6		)		(0.2		)
	Net assets acquired	$	162.9			$	33.7			$	22.7			$	17.8			$	12.2		$	6.1		$	5.7		$	5.2			$	4.9
	(1) Represents fair value of trade accounts receivable, which for each of the Air Serv and BEST acquisitions includes a $0.4 million adjustment to gross contractual amounts that are expected to be uncollectible. The fair values of trade accounts receivable acquired in the HHA, GBM, Airco, Alpha, Calvert-Jones, TEGG, and Blackjack acquisitions approximate their respective contractual amounts.
	(2) The following table summarizes the weighted-average useful lives in years of the acquired other intangible assets, consisting primarily of customer contracts and relationships for each respective acquisition:
	Air Serv		HHA		GBM		Airco		Alpha		Calvert-Jones		TEGG		Blackjack		BEST
	14		13		10		12		9		12		14		11		9
	(3) The total amount of goodwill that is deductible for tax purposes is $27.3 million.
Weighted-Average Useful Lives of Acquired Other Intangible Assets	The following table summarizes the weighted-average useful lives in years of the acquired other intangible assets, consisting primarily of customer contracts and relationships for each respective acquisition:
	Air Serv		HHA		GBM		Airco		Alpha		Calvert-Jones		TEGG		Blackjack		BEST
	14		13		10		12		9		12		14		11		9

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	The following table presents the fair value hierarchy, carrying amounts, and fair values of our financial instruments that are measured on a recurring basis and other select significant financial instruments as of October 31, 2014 and 2013:
			31-Oct-14				31-Oct-13
	(in millions)	Fair Value Hierarchy	Carrying Amount		Fair Value		Carrying Amount		Fair Value
	Financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
	Assets held in funded deferred compensation plan(1)	1	$	5.4	$	5.4	$	5.4	$	5.4
	Investments in auction rate securities(2)	3	13		13		13		13
			18.4		18.4		18.4		18.4
	Other select financial assets
	Cash and cash equivalents(3)	1	36.7		36.7		32.6		32.6
	Insurance deposits(4)	1	11.5		11.5		28.5		28.5
			48.2		48.2		61.1		61.1
	Total		$	66.6	$	66.6	$	79.5	$	79.5
	Financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis
	Interest rate swaps(5)	2	$	0.2	$	0.2	$	0.2	$	0.2
	Contingent consideration liability(6)	3	1.4		1.4		1.6		1.6
			1.6		1.6		1.8		1.8
	Other select financial liability
	Line of credit(7)	2	319.8		319.8		314.9		314.9
	Total		$	321.4	$	321.4	$	316.7	$	316.7
	(1) Represents investments held in a Rabbi trust associated with one of our deferred compensation plans, which we include in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value of the assets held in the funded deferred compensation plan is based on quoted market prices. See Note 11, “Employee Benefit Plans,” for further information.
	(2) For investments in auction rate securities, the fair values were based on discounted cash flow valuation models, primarily utilizing unobservable inputs, which we include in “Other investments” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 6, “Auction Rate Securities,” for the roll-forward of assets measured at fair value using significant unobservable Level 3 inputs and the sensitivity analysis of significant inputs.
	(3) Cash and cash equivalents are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value.
	(4) Represents restricted insurance deposits that are used to collateralize our insurance obligations and are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value. These insurance deposits were acquired as part of the OneSource Services Inc. acquisition, and are included in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 9, “Insurance,” for further information.
	(5) Represents interest rate swap derivatives designated as cash flow hedges. The fair values of the interest rate swaps are estimated based on the present value of the difference between expected cash flows calculated at the contracted interest rates and the expected cash flows at current market interest rates using observable benchmarks for LIBOR forward rates at the end of the period. The fair values of the interest rate swap liabilities are included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 10, “Line of Credit,” for more information.
	(6) Our contingent consideration liability was incurred in connection with the acquisition of BEST in 2013. The contingent consideration liability is measured at fair value and is included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value is based on a pre-defined forecasted adjusted income from operations using a probability weighted income approach and discounted using our fixed borrowing rate. See Note 4, “Acquisitions,” for further information.
	(7) Represents outstanding borrowings under our syndicated line of credit. Due to variable interest rates, the carrying value of outstanding borrowings under our line of credit approximates the fair value. See Note 10, “Line of Credit,” for further information.

Auction_Rate_Securities_Tables

Auction Rate Securities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Significant Assumptions Used to Determine Fair Value of Auction Rate Securities	Significant Assumptions used to Determine the Fair Values of our Auction Rate Securities
	Assumption	31-Oct-14		31-Oct-13
	Discount rates	L + 0.28% – L + 4.06%		L + 0.33% – L + 3.01%
	Yields	2.15%, L + 2.00%		2.15%, L + 2.00%
	Average expected lives	4 – 10 years		4 – 10 years
	L - One Month LIBOR
Changes in Cost Basis and Fair Value of Auction Rate Securities	Changes in the Cost Basis and Fair Value of our Auction Rate Securities as of October 31, 2014 and 2013:
	(in millions)	Amortized Cost Basis			Fair Value
					(Level 3)
	Balance at November 1, 2012	$	18		$	17.8
	Unrealized gains included in AOCL	—			0.2
	Redemption of security by issuer	(5.0		)	(5.0		)
	Balance at October 31, 2013	$	13		$	13
	Balance at October 31, 2014	$	13		$	13

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment
		As of October 31,
	(in millions)	2014		2013
	Computer equipment and software	$	91	$	83.9
	Machinery and other equipment	70.4		61
	Leasehold improvements	22.3		23.2
	Transportation equipment	16.8		13.6
	Buildings	10.8		11.7
	Furniture and fixtures	9.4		9.8
	Land	1.3		1.5
		222		204.7
	Less: Accumulated depreciation*	138.6		127.5
	Total	$	83.4	$	77.2
	* Depreciation expense for 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $30.5 million, $31.8 million, and $29.4 million, respectively.
Capital Leases Included in Property, Plant and Equipment	Capital Leases Included in Property, Plant and Equipment
		As of October 31,
	(in millions)	2014		2013
	Transportation equipment	$	6.9	$	6.9
	Machinery and other equipment	1.2		1.2
	Computer equipment and software	0.4		0.4
	Furniture and fixtures	0.3		0.3
		8.8		8.8
	Less: Accumulated depreciation	5.7		3.6
	Total	$	3.1	$	5.2

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles1

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes in Carrying Amounts of Goodwill by Segment	Goodwill
	(in millions)	Janitorial(1)			Facility Services			Parking		Security		Building & Energy Solutions			Other(1)			Total
	Balance at October 31, 2012	$	467.4		$	72.6		$	69.2	$	49.9	$	90.2		$	2.3		$	751.6
	Acquisition adjustments(2)	5.9			—			—		—		29.5			85.3			120.7
	Foreign currency translation	—			—			—		—		—			0.1			0.1
	Balance at October 31, 2013	$	473.3		$	72.6		$	69.2	$	49.9	$	119.7		$	87.7		$	872.4
	Acquisition adjustments(2)	15.3			—			—		—		17.7			(0.6		)	32.4
	Foreign currency translation	(0.2		)	—			—		—		—			—			(0.2		)
	Balance at October 31, 2014	$	488.4		$	72.6		$	69.2	$	49.9	$	137.4		$	87.1		$	904.6
	(1) In connection with the transfer of certain operations between our Other segment and our Janitorial segment, we reallocated goodwill between the segments to align goodwill with the activities conducted in the respective segments.
	(2) Goodwill related to acquisitions is discussed in Note 4, “Acquisitions.”
Other Intangible Assets, Net	Other Intangible Assets
		31-Oct-14								31-Oct-13
	(in millions)	Gross Carrying Amount			Accumulated Amortization			Total		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Total
	Customer contracts and relationships	$	265.3		$	(137.8	)	$	127.5	$	253.8	$	(112.1	)	$	141.7
	Trademarks and trade names	4.5			(3.7		)	0.8		4.2		(2.2		)	2
	Contract rights and other	1.9			(1.4		)	0.5		1.9		(1.2		)	0.7
	Total	$	271.7		$	(142.9	)	$	128.8	$	259.9	$	(115.5	)	$	144.4
Estimated Annual Amortization Expense	Estimated annual amortization expense for each of the next five years
	(in millions)	2015			2016			2017		2018		2019			Total
	Estimated amortization expense*	$	24.4		$	21.2		$	18.7	$	15.9	$	13.3		$	93.5
	* These amounts may vary as acquisitions of additional intangible assets occur in the future and as purchase price allocations are finalized for existing acquisitions. Refer to Note 4, “Acquisitions,” for more information.

Insurance_Tables

Insurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Insurance [Abstract]
Standby Letters of Credit, Surety Bonds and Restricted Insurance Deposits Outstanding to Collateralize Self-Insurance Obligations	We had the following standby letters of credit, surety bonds, and restricted insurance deposits outstanding at October 31, 2014 and 2013, to collateralize our insurance obligations:
		October 31,
	(in millions)	2014		2013
	Standby letters of credit	$	111.1	$	97.7
	Surety bonds	52.5		40.5
	Restricted insurance deposits	11.5		28.5
	Total	$	175.1	$	166.7

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Pension Plans

For plans that are not individually significant to us, the total amount of contributions is presented in the aggregate.

(in millions)

Pension Protection Act Zone Status

FIP/RP Status

Contributions by the Company

Surcharge Imposed

Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements

Pension Fund

EIN/PN

2014

2013

Pending/

2014

2013

2012

Implemented

Building Service 32BJ Pension Fund

13-1879376 / 001

Red

Red

Implemented

$

14.3

$

13.7

$

14.6

No

12/31/15

6/30/14

6/30/14

Central Pension Fund of the IUOE & Participating Employers

36-6052390 /001

Green

Green

N/A*

9.8

9.7

10.2

N/A*

3/5/2015–10/31/2016

1/31/14

1/31/13

Local 25 SEIU & Participating Employers Pension Trust

36-6486542 / 001

Green

Green

N/A*

6.8

7.4

7.5

N/A*

4/5/2015–4/24/2016

9/30/13

9/30/12

S.E.I.U. National Industry Pension Fund

52-6148540 / 001

Red

Red

Implemented

5.9

5.3

4.2

Yes

6/30/2015–12/31/2016

12/31/13

12/31/12

IUOE Stationary Engineers Local 39 Pension Fund

94-6118939 / 001

Green

Green 12/31/2012

N/A*

5.6

5.2

5.7

N/A*

1/31/2016–2/28/2018

12/31/13

Local 68 Engineers Union Pension Plan

51-0176618 / 001

Yellow

Green

Implemented

3.2

2.7

3.1

N/A*

6/15/2015- 8/31/2018

6/30/13

6/30/12

Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ, District 36 Building Operators Pension Trust Fund

23-6546776 / 001

Yellow

Yellow

Implemented

1.8

2

2.1

N/A*

10/15/15

12/31/14

12/31/13

IUOE Local 30 Pension Fund

51-6045848 / 001

Green

Green 12/31/2012

N/A*

1.3

1.4

1.6

N/A*

12/31/14

12/31/13

Other Plans

14.2

11.9

9.7

Total Contributions

$

62.9

$

59.3

$

58.7

*

Not applicable

We were listed in the most currently available Forms 5500 of the following plans as providing more than 5 percent of total contributions for the plan years presented below.

Pension Fund

Contributions to the plan exceeded more than 5% of total contributions

(as of the Plan’s year end)

Building Service 32BJ Pension Fund

6/30/2013, 6/30/2012, and 6/30/2011

Building Service Pension Plan*

4/30/2013, 4/30/2012, and 4/30/2011

Contract Cleaners Service Employees’ Pension Plan*

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and 12/31/2011

IUOE Local 30 Pension Fund

12/31/2012 and 12/31/2011

IUOE Stationary Engineers Local 39 Pension Fund

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and 12/31/2011

Local 1102 Amalgamated Pension Fund*

12/31/2012 and 12/31/2011

Local 210’s Pension Plan*

12/31/2013 and 12/31/2012

Local 25 SEIU & Participating Employers Pension Trust

9/30/2013, 9/30/2012, and 9/30/2011

Massachusetts Service Employees Pension Fund*

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and 12/31/2011

S.E.I.U. National Industry Pension Fund

12/31/2013 and 12/31/2012

Service Employees International Union Local 1 Cleveland Pension Plan*

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and12/31/2011

Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ, District 36 Building Operators Pension Trust Fund

12/31/2013, 12/31/2012, and12/31/2011

Teamsters Local 617 Pension Fund*

2/28/2013, 2/29/2012, and 2/28/2011

* These plans are not separately listed in our multiemployer table as they represent an insignificant portion of our total multiemployer pension plan contributions.

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases	Future Minimum Payments under our Noncancelable Operating and Capital Lease Agreements
	(in millions)	Capital		Operating (1)
	31-Oct-15	$	2	$	77.7
	31-Oct-16	0.7		55.3
	31-Oct-17	0.1		46.4
	31-Oct-18	—		35.1
	31-Oct-19	—		19.9
	Thereafter	—		32.3
	Total minimum lease commitments (2)	$	2.8	$	266.7
	(1) Sublease rental income was immaterial for all periods presented and is expected to be immaterial in the future.
	(2) Our capital lease obligation includes total imputed interest of $0.1 million for a present value of minimum lease payments of $2.7 million.
Future Minimum Lease Payments for Operating Leases	uture Minimum Payments under our Noncancelable Operating and Capital Lease Agreements
	(in millions)	Capital		Operating (1)
	31-Oct-15	$	2	$	77.7
	31-Oct-16	0.7		55.3
	31-Oct-17	0.1		46.4
	31-Oct-18	—		35.1
	31-Oct-19	—		19.9
	Thereafter	—		32.3
	Total minimum lease commitments (2)	$	2.8	$	266.7
	(1) Sublease rental income was immaterial for all periods presented and is expected to be immaterial in the future.
	(2) Our capital lease obligation includes total imputed interest of $0.1 million for a present value of minimum lease payments of $2.7 million.
Rental Expense for Continuing Operations	Rental Expense
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014		2013		2012
	Minimum rentals	$	107.4	$	104	$	101.5
	Contingent rentals	28.5		30.2		32.5
	Total	$	135.9	$	134.2	$	134

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Summary of Total Compensation Expense and Related Income Tax Benefit in Connection with Share-Based Compensation Plans	The following table summarizes our total compensation expense and related income tax benefit in connection with our share-based compensation plans for 2014, 2013, and 2012.
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014				2013				2012
	Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	$	16.3			$	13.3			$	10.2
	Income tax benefit	(6.8		)		(5.5		)		(4.2		)
		$	9.5			$	7.8			$	6
RSU Activity	RSU activity during 2014 is summarized below:
		Number of Shares (in millions)			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share
	Nonvested at November 1, 2013	1.4			$	21.7
	Granted	0.3			27.8
	Vested (including 0.1 shares withheld for income taxes)	(0.2	)		19.8
	Forfeited	(0.1	)		22.2
	Nonvested at October 31, 2014	1.4			$	23.4
	Vested at October 31, 2014	0.2			$	20.1
Stock Option Activity	The combined plan activity for the Prior Plans during 2014 is summarized below:
		Number of Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share				Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
		(in millions)
	Outstanding at November 1, 2013	0.8			$	17.3
	Exercised	(0.2	)		18.9
	Outstanding at October 31, 2014	0.6			$	16.8			17.8		$	6.2
	Exercisable at October 31, 2014	0.4			$	18.2			9.2		$	3.6
	Stock option activity during 2014 is summarized below:
		Number of Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share				Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
		(in millions)
	Outstanding at November 1, 2013	1.6			$	21.6
	Exercised	(0.4	)		20.9
	Outstanding at October 31, 2014	1.2			$	21.8			3.8		$	7.2
	Exercisable at October 31, 2014	0.5			$	20.2			3.7		$	3.5
Performance Share Activity	Performance share activity, including TSR performance shares awarded during 2014, is summarized below:
		Number of Shares (in millions)			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share
	Nonvested at November 1, 2013	0.9			$	22.3
	Granted	0.4			27.7
	Vested (including 0.1 shares withheld for income taxes)	(0.2	)		25
	Nonvested at October 31, 2014	1.1			$	23.9
Assumptions Used in Option Valuation Model	The assumptions used in the Monte Carlo simulation model for 2014 and the Black-Scholes options-pricing model for 2013 and 2012 are shown in the table below.
		Monte Carlo				Black-Scholes				Black-Scholes
		2014				2013				2012
	Expected life(1)	2.15 years				5.37 years				5.6 years
	Expected stock price volatility(2)	19		%		38.8		%		41.6		%
	Expected dividend yield(3)	2.4		%		2.4		%		3		%
	Risk-free interest rate(4)	0.6		%		1.8		%		0.8		%
	Stock price(5)	$	26.6			N/A*				N/A*
	Weighted average fair value of option grants	N/A				$	7.5			$	5.3
	*	Not Applicable
	(1) For TSR awards valued under the Monte Carlo simulation model, the expected life represents the remaining performance period of the awards. For stock options valued under the Black-Scholes options-pricing model, the expected life is based on observed historical exercise patterns of the previously granted options adjusted to reflect the change in vesting and expiration dates.
	(2) For the Monte Carlo simulation model, the expected volatility for each grant is determined based on the historical volatility of our common stock over a period equal to the remaining term of the performance period from the date of grant for all awards. For the Black-Scholes options-pricing model, the expected volatility is based on considerations of implied volatility from publicly traded and quoted options on our common stock and the historical volatility of our common stock.
	(3) The dividend yield is based on the historical dividend yield over the expected life of the awards granted.
	(4) For the Monte Carlo simulation and Black-Scholes options-pricing models, the risk-free interest rate is based on the continuous compounded yield on U.S. Treasury Constant Maturity Rates. For TSR awards valued under the Monte Carlo simulation model, the remaining term is determined over a period of time that is commensurate with the performance period from the grant date. For stock option awards valued under the Black-Scholes options-pricing models, the remaining term is equal to the expected term of the option.
	(5) The stock price is the closing price of our common stock on the valuation date.

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Income Tax Provision	Components of Income Tax Provision
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014				2013				2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	36.2			$	15.3			$	9.7
	State	9.1				10.9				10.5
	Foreign	1.3				0.8				—
	Deferred:
	Federal	0.8				10				11.1
	State	1.4				2.5				(1.3		)
		$	48.8			$	39.5			$	30
Reconciliation of US Statutory Tax Rate to Annual Effective Tax Rate	Reconciliation of the U.S. Statutory Tax Rate to Annual Effective Tax Rate
		Years Ended October 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Tax rate reconciliation:
	Statutory rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	6.5	%		6.5	%		6.5	%
	Federal and state tax credits	(2.6	)%		(8.6	)%		(5.5	)%
	Impact of change in state tax rate	0.1	%		0.5	%		1.2	%
	Changes in uncertain tax positions	(1.7	)%		(1.4	)%		(7.2	)%
	Nondeductible expenses and other, net	1.9	%		3.1	%		2.4	%
	Annual effective tax rate	39.2	%		35.1	%		32.4	%
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
		As of October 31,
	(in millions)	2014				2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Self-insurance claims (net of recoverables)	$	113			$	114.9
	Deferred and other compensation	35.6				33.6
	Accounts receivable allowances	3.7				3.9
	Settlement liabilities	2				0.6
	Other accruals	3.6				2.3
	Other comprehensive income	1.2				1.4
	State taxes	0.8				0.7
	State net operating loss carryforwards	7.1				8.1
	Tax credits	5.1				6.1
	Other	0.9				1
		173				172.6
	Valuation allowance	(6.2		)		(6.2		)
	Total deferred tax assets	166.8				166.4
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Property, plant and equipment	(1.1		)		(5.5		)
	Goodwill and other acquired intangibles	(135.5		)		(126.9		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	(136.6		)		(132.4		)
	Net deferred tax assets	$	30.2			$	34
Reconciliation of Total Unrecognized Tax Benefits	Reconciliation of Total Unrecognized Tax Benefits
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014				2013				2012
	Balance at beginning of year	$	87.6			$	88.4			$	95.9
	Additions for tax positions related to the current year	1.4				1.7				0.6
	Reductions for tax positions related to the current year	—				(0.6		)		—
	Additions for tax positions related to prior years	—				0.6				0.9
	Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	—				(0.1		)		(7.3		)
	Reductions for expiration of statute of limitations	(3.2		)		(1.5		)		(0.1		)
	Settlements	(0.3		)		(0.9		)		(1.6		)
	Balance as of October 31	$	85.5			$	87.6			$	88.4
Summary of Income Tax Examinations	The following table summarizes by entity the tax years that are either currently being examined or remain open for examination:
	Entity	Open by statute
	ABM state tax returns*	10/31/2010 – 10/31/2014
	ABM federal tax returns	10/31/2011 – 10/31/2014
	Air Serv	6/30/2011 – 10/31/2012
	HHA	12/31/2011 – 10/31/2012
	* We are currently being examined by the taxing authorities in the states of New Jersey and Michigan.

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa1

Segment and Geographic Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reportable Operating Segments	Financial Information by Reportable Segment
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	Revenues:
	Janitorial	$	2,583.20		$	2,480.50		$	2,390.60
	Facility Services	599.3			609.4			576.1
	Parking	616.1			609.1			615.1
	Security	383.1			381.5			365.9
	Building & Energy Solutions	483.8			401.5			348.3
	Other	367.3			326.4			3.8
	Corporate	—			0.9			0.5
		$	5,032.80		$	4,809.30		$	4,300.30
	Operating profit:
	Janitorial	$	144.4		$	135.4		$	135.4
	Facility Services	26.9			27.4			23.1
	Parking	30.9			27.5			26.2
	Security	12.5			13			7.8
	Building & Energy Solutions	23.1			15.3			10.2
	Other	12.2			11.8			0.6
	Corporate	(114.8		)	(105.2		)	(103.3		)
	Adjustment for income from unconsolidated affiliates, net, included in Building & Energy Solutions	(6.6		)	(6.2		)	(3.4		)
		128.6			119			96.6
	Other-than-temporary impairment credit losses on auction rate security recognized in earnings	—			—			(0.3		)
	Income from unconsolidated affiliates, net	6.5			6.3			6.4
	Interest expense	(10.7		)	(12.9		)	(10.0		)
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes	$	124.4		$	112.4		$	92.7
	Total assets:*
	Janitorial	$	952.8		$	887.5		$	861.2
	Facility Services	198.8			211.3			214.6
	Parking	140.6			141.9			153.6
	Security	116			112.7			111.3
	Building & Energy Solutions	334.9			296.2			232.1
	Other	224.4			231.9			2.6
	Corporate	225.4			237.7			275.4
		$	2,192.90		$	2,119.20		$	1,850.80
	* Excludes assets of discontinued operations of $0.4 million as of October 31, 2012.
Summary of Reportable Operating Segments
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Janitorial	$	17.9		$	18		$	18
	Facility Services	3.9			4.4			5
	Parking	2.9			3.2			3.5
	Security	0.9			1			1.2
	Building & Energy Solutions	11.4			11.3			8.8
	Other	11.9			11.5			—
	Corporate	8.4			11			14.4
		$	57.3		$	60.4		$	50.9
	Capital expenditures:
	Janitorial	$	13.2		$	14.7		$	12.4
	Facility Services	0.1			—			—
	Parking	2.2			2.5			2.2
	Security	—			0.2			0.2
	Building & Energy Solutions	3.1			1.2			0.8
	Other	5.1			2.4			—
	Corporate	13.7			11.6			12.4
		$	37.4		$	32.6		$	28
Summary of Revenues by Geographic Region	Geographic Information Based on the Country in Which the Sale Originated
		Years Ended October 31,
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	Revenues:*
	United States	$	4,902.50		$	4,703.00		$	4,243.00
	All other countries	130.3			106.3			57.3
		$	5,032.80		$	4,809.30		$	4,300.30
	* Substantially all of our long-lived assets are related to United States operations.

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D1

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Data
		Fiscal Quarter
	(in millions, except per share amounts)	First		Second		Third		Fourth
	Year ended October 31, 2014
	Revenues	$	1,226.50	$	1,231.30	$	1,276.10	$	1,298.90
	Gross profit	118		127.9		131.4		142
	Net income	13.1		15.2		19.4		27.9
	Net income per common share—Basic	0.23		0.27		0.34		0.5
	Net income per common share—Diluted	0.23		0.27		0.34		0.49
	Year ended October 31, 2013
	Revenues	$	1,182.10	$	1,173.60	$	1,216.80	$	1,236.80
	Gross profit	114.2		125.4		121.1		135.2
	Net income	13.4		19.3		16		24.2
	Net income per common share—Basic	0.25		0.35		0.29		0.44
	Net income per common share—Diluted	0.24		0.35		0.29		0.43

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign3

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
	Customer	Customer	Customer
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Number of client accounted for more than 10% of consolidated revenues	0	0	0
Impairment loss	$0	$0	$0
Investments	19,000,000	18,000,000
Costs directly reimbursed from parking lot client	306,100,000	302,400,000	305,700,000
Advertising expense	$8,200,000	$8,000,000	$5,900,000
Minimum
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Equity method investment ownership percentage	20.00%
Maximum
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Equity method investment ownership percentage	50.00%

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign4

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies - Estimated Useful Lives of Property, Plant and Equipment (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Computer equipment and software | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	3 years
Computer equipment and software | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	5 years
Machinery and other equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	3 years
Machinery and other equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	5 years
Buildings | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	10 years
Buildings | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	40 years
Furnitures and fixtures
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	5 years
Transportation equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	1 year 6 months
Transportation equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives	10 years

Net_Income_Per_Common_Share_Ca

Net Income Per Common Share - Calculations of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Share (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Jul. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Jul. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Income from continuing operations									$75.60	$72.90	$62.70
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes									0	0	-0.1
Net income	$27.90	$19.40	$15.20	$13.10	$24.20	$16	$19.30	$13.40	$75.60	$72.90	$62.60
Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding-Basic									56.1	54.9	54
Effect of dilutive securities:
Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding-Diluted									57.1	56.1	54.9
Net income per common share
Basic	$0.50	$0.34	$0.27	$0.23	$0.44	$0.29	$0.35	$0.25	$1.35	$1.33	$1.16
Diluted	$0.49	$0.34	$0.27	$0.23	$0.43	$0.29	$0.35	$0.24	$1.32	$1.30	$1.14
RSUs
Effect of dilutive securities:
Effect of dilutive securities									0.4	0.5	0.3
Stock options
Effect of dilutive securities:
Effect of dilutive securities									0.4	0.3	0.3
Performance shares
Effect of dilutive securities:
Effect of dilutive securities									0.2	0.4	0.3

Net_Income_Per_Common_Share_An

Net Income Per Common Share - Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share (Detail)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, amount	0.3	0.8	1.4

Acquisitions_Additional_Inform

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

0 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Oct. 01, 2014

Aug. 01, 2014

Mar. 01, 2014

Sep. 01, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Aug. 01, 2013

Nov. 01, 2012

1-May-12

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Fair value of contingent consideration

$1.40

[1]

$1.40

[1]

$1.60

[1]

GBM

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

22.7

Business Combination, Contingent Consideration

3.3

Fair value of contingent consideration

3.3

Airco

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

17.8

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Alpha

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

12.2

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Fair value of accounts receivables acquired

0.1

0.1

BEST

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

4.9

Fair value of contingent consideration

1.6

Reduction in contingent consideration

0.2

Deferred consideration estimate value, high

2

2

Blackjack

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

5.2

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Air Serv

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

162.9

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Business acquisition indemnification hold back amount

11.8

11.8

HHA

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

33.7

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Calvert-Jones

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

6.1

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

TEGG

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition aggregate purchase price

5.7

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition related costs

$1.20

[1]

Our contingent consideration liability was incurred in connection with the acquisition of BEST in 2013. The contingent consideration liability is measured at fair value and is included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value is based on a pre-defined forecasted adjusted income from operations using a probability weighted income approach and discounted using our fixed borrowing rate. See Note 4, “Acquisitions,” for further information.

Acquisitions_Final_Purchase_Pr

Acquisitions - Final Purchase Price and Related Allocations (Detail) (USD $)

0 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Nov. 01, 2012

Oct. 01, 2014

Aug. 01, 2014

Mar. 01, 2014

1-May-12

Aug. 01, 2013

Sep. 01, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2012

Purchase price:

Fair value of contingent consideration

$1.40

[1]

$1.60

[1]

Allocated to:

Goodwill

904.6

872.4

751.6

Goodwill, deductible for tax purposes

27.3

Air Serv

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

162.9

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Holdback liability

0

Total consideration

162.9

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

52.7

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

16.2

Property, plant and equipment

16.7

Other intangible assets

44.6

[3]

Goodwill

88.8

[4]

Total assets acquired

219

Liabilities assumed

-56.1

Net assets acquired

162.9

Uncollectable receivable amount

0.4

HHA

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

33.7

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Holdback liability

0

Total consideration

33.7

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

3.2

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

2.2

Property, plant and equipment

0.1

Other intangible assets

15

[3]

Goodwill

23.8

[4]

Total assets acquired

44.3

Liabilities assumed

-10.6

Net assets acquired

33.7

GBM

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

19.4

Fair value of contingent consideration

3.3

Holdback liability

0

Total consideration

22.7

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

9.7

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

5.1

Property, plant and equipment

0.6

Other intangible assets

1.7

[3]

Goodwill

14.9

[4]

Total assets acquired

32

Liabilities assumed

-9.3

Net assets acquired

22.7

Airco

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

17.8

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Holdback liability

0

Total consideration

17.8

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

3.2

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

1.1

Property, plant and equipment

0.3

Other intangible assets

7.1

[3]

Goodwill

10.6

[4]

Total assets acquired

22.3

Liabilities assumed

-4.5

Net assets acquired

17.8

Alpha

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

12.2

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Holdback liability

0

Total consideration

12.2

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

4.6

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

0.1

Property, plant and equipment

0.5

Other intangible assets

3.3

[3]

Goodwill

6.8

[4]

Total assets acquired

15.3

Liabilities assumed

-3.1

Net assets acquired

12.2

Calvert-Jones

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

6.1

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Holdback liability

0

Total consideration

6.1

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

1.6

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

0.1

Property, plant and equipment

0.1

Other intangible assets

2.6

[3]

Goodwill

4

[4]

Total assets acquired

8.4

Liabilities assumed

-2.3

Net assets acquired

6.1

TEGG

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

5.7

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Holdback liability

0

Total consideration

5.7

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

0.3

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

0.9

Property, plant and equipment

2.2

Other intangible assets

2.2

[3]

Goodwill

2

[4]

Total assets acquired

7.6

Liabilities assumed

-1.9

Net assets acquired

5.7

Blackjack

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

5.2

Fair value of contingent consideration

0

Holdback liability

0

Total consideration

5.2

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

4.6

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

0.2

Property, plant and equipment

0.3

Other intangible assets

0.9

[3]

Goodwill

1.8

[4]

Total assets acquired

7.8

Liabilities assumed

-2.6

Net assets acquired

5.2

BEST

Purchase price:

Cash consideration

2.9

Fair value of contingent consideration

1.6

Holdback liability

0.4

Total consideration

4.9

Allocated to:

Trade accounts receivable

1.2

[2]

Other current and noncurrent assets

0

Property, plant and equipment

0.6

Other intangible assets

1.4

[3]

Goodwill

1.9

[4]

Total assets acquired

5.1

Liabilities assumed

-0.2

Net assets acquired

4.9

Uncollectable receivable amount

$0.40

[1]

Our contingent consideration liability was incurred in connection with the acquisition of BEST in 2013. The contingent consideration liability is measured at fair value and is included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value is based on a pre-defined forecasted adjusted income from operations using a probability weighted income approach and discounted using our fixed borrowing rate. See Note 4, “Acquisitions,” for further information.

[2]

Represents fair value of trade accounts receivable, which for each of the Air Serv and BEST acquisitions includes a $0.4 million adjustment to gross contractual amounts that are expected to be uncollectible. The fair values of trade accounts receivable acquired in the HHA, GBM, Airco, Alpha, Calvert-Jones, TEGG, and Blackjack acquisitions approximate their respective contractual amounts.

[3]

The following table summarizes the weighted-average useful lives in years of the acquired other intangible assets, consisting primarily of customer contracts and relationships for each respective acquisition:Air Serv HHA GBMAirco Alpha Calvert-Jones TEGG Blackjack BEST14 13 1012 9 12 14 11 9

[4]

The total amount of goodwill that is deductible for tax purposes is $27.3 million.

Acquisitions_Weightedaverage_U

Acquisitions - Weighted-average Useful Lives of Acquired Other Intangible Assets (Detail) (Other Identifiable Intangibles, Customer Contracts And Relationships)	0 Months Ended
	Nov. 01, 2012	Oct. 01, 2014	Aug. 01, 2014	Mar. 01, 2014	1-May-12	Aug. 01, 2013	Sep. 01, 2013
Air Serv
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets	14 years
HHA
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets	13 years
GBM
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets		10 years
Airco
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets			12 years
Alpha
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets				9 years
Calvert-Jones
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets	12 years
TEGG
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets					14 years
Blackjack
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets						11 years
BEST
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets							9 years

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru2

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Detail) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Assets held in funded deferred compensation plan	$5.40	[1]	$5.40	[1]
Investments in auction rate securities	13	[2]	13	[2]
Fair value of recurring assets	18.4		18.4
Cash and cash equivalents	36.7	[3]	32.6	[3]	43.5	26.5
Insurance deposits	11.5	[4]	28.5	[4]
Other Select Financial Assets	48.2		61.1
Total Financial Assets	66.6		79.5
Interest rate swap	0.2	[5]	0.2	[5]
Contingent consideration liability	1.4	[6]	1.6	[6]
Line of credit	319.8	[7]	314.9	[7]
Total Financial Liabilities	321.4		316.7
Other Select Financial Assets Fair Value Disclosure	48.2		61.1
Fair value of recurring liabilities	1.6		1.8
Total Fair Value of Financial Liabilities	321.4		316.7
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Insurance deposits	11.5	[4]	28.5	[4]
Cash and cash equivalents	36.7	[3]	32.6	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Line of credit	319.8	[7]	314.9	[7]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring Basis
Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Fair value of recurring assets	18.4		18.4
Fair value of recurring liabilities	1.6		1.8
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring Basis | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Assets held in funded deferred compensation plan	5.4	[1]	5.4	[1]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring Basis | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Interest rate swap	0.2	[5]	0.2	[5]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring Basis | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Contingent consideration liability	1.4	[6]	1.6	[6]
Investments in auction rate securities	$13	[2]	$13	[2]
[1]	Represents investments held in a Rabbi trust associated with one of our deferred compensation plans, which we include in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value of the assets held in the funded deferred compensation plan is based on quoted market prices. See Note 11, “Employee Benefit Plans,” for further information.
[2]	For investments in auction rate securities, the fair values were based on discounted cash flow valuation models, primarily utilizing unobservable inputs, which we include in “Other investments” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 6, “Auction Rate Securities,” for the roll-forward of assets measured at fair value using significant unobservable Level 3 inputs and the sensitivity analysis of significant inputs
[3]	Cash and cash equivalents are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value.
[4]	Represents restricted insurance deposits that are used to collateralize our insurance obligations and are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value. These insurance deposits were acquired as part of the OneSource Services Inc. acquisition, and are included in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 9, “Insurance,” for further information.
[5]	Represents interest rate swap derivatives designated as cash flow hedges. The fair values of the interest rate swaps are estimated based on the present value of the difference between expected cash flows calculated at the contracted interest rates and the expected cash flows at current market interest rates using observable benchmarks for LIBOR forward rates at the end of the period. The fair values of the interest rate swap liabilities are included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 10, “Line of Credit,” for more information.
[6]	Our contingent consideration liability was incurred in connection with the acquisition of BEST in 2013. The contingent consideration liability is measured at fair value and is included in “Other liabilities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value is based on a pre-defined forecasted adjusted income from operations using a probability weighted income approach and discounted using our fixed borrowing rate. See Note 4, “Acquisitions,” for further information.
[7]	Represents outstanding borrowings under our syndicated line of credit. Due to variable interest rates, the carrying value of outstanding borrowings under our line of credit approximates the fair value. See Note 10, “Line of Credit,” for further information.

Auction_Rate_Securities_Additi

Auction Rate Securities - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Number of different issuers the Company held investments in for auction rate securities	3
Investments in auction rate securities, original principal amount	$15,000,000
Investments in auction rate securities, amortized cost basis	13,000,000
Unrealized losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax		0
Auction rate securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Unrealized losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax	0
Other-than-temporary credit loss recognized in earnings	0	0	300,000
Auction rate securities | Retained Earnings
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Total amount of other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) credit loss recognized	$2,000,000	$2,000,000

Auction_Rate_Securities_Signif

Auction Rate Securities - Significant Assumptions Used to Determine Fair Value of Auction Rate Securities (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Libor plus stated yield	2.00%	2.00%
Yields	2.15%	2.15%
Minimum
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Libor plus the stated discount rate	0.28%	0.33%
Average expected lives	4 years	4 years
Maximum
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Libor plus the stated discount rate	4.06%	3.01%
Average expected lives	10 years	10 years

Auction_Rate_Securities_Change

Auction Rate Securities - Changes in Cost Basis and Fair Value of Auction Rate Securities (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year	$13	[1]
Unrealized gains recorded in AOCL	0		-0.2		-2.1
Redemption of security by issuer	0		-5		0
Balance at ending of year	13	[1]	13	[1]
Cost Basis | Auction rate securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year			18
Unrealized gains recorded in AOCL			0
Redemption of security by issuer			-5
Balance at ending of year			13
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Auction rate securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year			17.8
Unrealized gains recorded in AOCL			-0.2
Redemption of security by issuer			-5
Balance at ending of year	$13		$13
[1]	For investments in auction rate securities, the fair values were based on discounted cash flow valuation models, primarily utilizing unobservable inputs, which we include in “Other investments” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 6, “Auction Rate Securities,” for the roll-forward of assets measured at fair value using significant unobservable Level 3 inputs and the sensitivity analysis of significant inputs

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_D

Property, Plant and Equipment (Detail) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Computer equipment and software	$91		$83.90
Machinery and other equipment	70.4		61
Leasehold improvements	22.3		23.2
Transportation equipment	16.8		13.6
Buildings	10.8		11.7
Furniture and fixtures	9.4		9.8
Land	1.3		1.5
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Total	222		204.7
Less: Accumulated depreciation	138.6	[1]	127.5	[1]
Total	$83.40		$77.20
[1]	Depreciation expense for 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $30.5 million, $31.8 million, and $29.4 million, respectively.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_A

Property, Plant and Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Depreciation expense	$30.50	$31.80	$29.40

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_C

Property, Plant and Equipment Capital Leases Included in Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capital leased assets, gross	$8.80		$8.80
Less: Accumulated depreciation	138.6	[1]	127.5	[1]
Total capital leased assets, net of accumulated depreciation	3.1		5.2
Transportation equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capital leased assets, gross	6.9		6.9
Machinery and other equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capital leased assets, gross	1.2		1.2
Computer equipment and software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capital leased assets, gross	0.4		0.4
Furnitures and fixtures
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capital leased assets, gross	0.3		0.3
Assets Held under Capital Leases
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation	$5.70		$3.60
[1]	Depreciation expense for 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $30.5 million, $31.8 million, and $29.4 million, respectively.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles2

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Assets - Changes in Carrying Amounts of Goodwill by Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$872.40		$751.60
Acquisitions	32.4	[1]	120.7	[1]
Foreign Currency Translation	-0.2		0.1
Ending Balance	904.6		872.4
Janitorial
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	473.3	[2]	467.4	[2]
Acquisitions	15.3	[1],[2]	5.9	[1],[2]
Foreign Currency Translation	-0.2	[2]	0	[2]
Ending Balance	488.4	[2]	473.3	[2]
Facility Services
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	72.6		72.6
Acquisitions	0	[1]	0	[1]
Foreign Currency Translation	0		0
Ending Balance	72.6		72.6
Parking
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	69.2		69.2
Acquisitions	0	[1]	0	[1]
Foreign Currency Translation	0		0
Ending Balance	69.2		69.2
Security
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	49.9		49.9
Acquisitions	0	[1]	0	[1]
Foreign Currency Translation	0		0
Ending Balance	49.9		49.9
Building & Energy Solutions
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	119.7		90.2
Acquisitions	17.7	[1]	29.5	[1]
Foreign Currency Translation	0		0
Ending Balance	137.4		119.7
Other
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	87.7	[2]	2.3	[2]
Acquisitions	-0.6	[1],[2]	85.3	[1],[2]
Foreign Currency Translation	0	[2]	0.1	[2]
Ending Balance	$87.10	[2]	$87.70	[2]
[1]	Goodwill related to acquisitions is discussed in Note 4, “Acquisitions.”
[2]	In connection with the transfer of certain operations between our Other segment and our Janitorial segment, we reallocated goodwill between the segments to align goodwill with the activities conducted in the respective segments.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles3

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Assets - Other Intangible Assets, Net (Detail) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$271.70	$259.90
Accumulated Amortization	-142.9	-115.5
Total	128.8	144.4
Customer contracts and relationships
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	265.3	253.8
Accumulated Amortization	-137.8	-112.1
Total	127.5	141.7
Trademarks and trade names
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	4.5	4.2
Accumulated Amortization	-3.7	-2.2
Total	0.8	2
Contract rights and other
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	1.9	1.9
Accumulated Amortization	-1.4	-1.2
Total	$0.50	$0.70

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles4

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Assets - Estimated Annual Amortization Expense (Detail) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Estimated Amortization Expense 2015	$24.40	[1]
Estimated Amortization Expense 2016	21.2	[1]
Estimated Amortization Expense 2017	18.7	[1]
Estimated Amortization Expense 2018	15.9	[1]
Estimated Amortization Expense 2019	13.3	[1]
Total Estimated Amortization Expense	$93.50	[1]
[1]	These amounts may vary as acquisitions of additional intangible assets occur in the future and as purchase price allocations are finalized for existing acquisitions. Refer to Note 4, “Acquisitions,” for more information.

Insurance_Additional_Informati

Insurance - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Self insurance retention amount per-claim	$1
Commercial insurance policies coverage	200
Insurance Policy Coverage, Property Damage	75
Self-insurance reserve adjustments	-8.7	3.9	1.7
Insurance claim reserves	349.7	358
Estimated Insurance Recoveries	66.4	68.7
Corporate segment
Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Self-insurance reserve adjustments	11.5	10.6	7.3
Minimum
Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Insurance deductibles per occurrence	1
Maximum
Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Insurance deductibles per occurrence	5
Medical and Dental Self Insurance Program
Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Insurance claim reserves	4.8	7
Medical and Dental Self Insurance Program | Maximum
Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Self insurance retention amount per-claim	$0.40

Insurance_Standby_Letters_of_C

Insurance - Standby Letters of Credit, Surety Bonds and Restricted Insurance Deposits Outstanding to Collateralize Self-Insurance Obligations (Detail) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Letters Of Credit [Line Items]
Standby letters of credit	$114.90		$100.60
Surety bonds	339.7
Restricted insurance deposits	-11.5	[1]	-28.5	[1]
Self Insurance Programs
Letters Of Credit [Line Items]
Standby letters of credit	111.1		97.7
Surety bonds	52.5		40.5
Restricted insurance deposits	11.5		28.5
Total	$175.10		$166.70
[1]	Represents restricted insurance deposits that are used to collateralize our insurance obligations and are stated at nominal value, which equals fair value. These insurance deposits were acquired as part of the OneSource Services Inc. acquisition, and are included in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 9, “Insurance,” for further information.

Line_of_Credit_Additional_Info

Line of Credit - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2010	Oct. 31, 2014	Dec. 11, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2013
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit agreement term	5 years
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity	$650
Syndicated line of credit, increased capacity	650
Covenants maximum leverage ratio		3.25
Minimum fixed charge coverage ratio		1.5
Consolidated net worth		570
Consolidated net income earned		50.00%
Aggregate increases in stockholders' equity		100.00%
Line of credit, amount outstanding		319.8			314.9
Standby letters of credit		114.9			100.6
Line of credit, borrowing capacity currently available		365.3			234.5
Unrealized net loss related to the interest rate swap contract		0.1
Standby Letters of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity	300
Swing Line Loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity	50
Second Amendment
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date				8-Sep-16
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Portion, Commitment Fee Percentage, Increase (Decrease) in Percentage			0.03%
Syndicated line of credit, increased capacity			800
Second Amendment | Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage of commitment fee on the unused portion of the Facility			0.20%
Second Amendment | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity		1,000
Percentage of commitment fee on the unused portion of the Facility			0.28%
Second Amendment | Federal Funds Rate
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Variable rate	0.50%
Second Amendment | One Month Eurodollar Rate
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Variable rate	1.00%
Second Amendment | Base Rate | Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Variable rate	0.00%
Second Amendment | Base Rate | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Variable rate	0.75%
Second Amendment | Eurodollar | Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Variable rate	1.00%
Second Amendment | Eurodollar | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Variable rate	1.75%
Interest Rate Swap
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Notional amount		155
Effective portion of cash flow hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax		0.2			0.2
Effective portion of cash flow hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax		$0.10			$0.10
Interest Rate Swap | Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Derivative, fixed interest rate		0.44%
Interest Rate Swap | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Derivative, fixed interest rate		0.47%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Defined

Employee Benefit Plans - Defined Benefit Plans (Details) (Defined Benefit Plans, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Net obligation recognized in Balance Sheet	$8.20	$10
Projected benefit obligations in the aggregate	16	17.6
Fair value of plan assets	7.8	7.6
Expected return on plan assets	0.5	0.4	0.5
Net periodic benefit cost	0.4	0.4	0.5
Future benefit payments in aggregate	$10.30
Equities
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Investments of plan assets	53.00%
Fixed Income Funds
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Investments of plan assets	30.00%
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Investments of plan assets	17.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Employe

Employee Benefit Plans Employee Benefit Plans - Deferred Compensation Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Fair value of the assets held in the Rabbi Trust	$5.40	[1]	$5.40	[1]
Deferred Compensation Plan
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Total long-term liability of all deferred compensation plans	17.8		17
Deferred Compensation Plan | OneSource Services Inc
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Aggregate expense recognized under deferred compensation plans	0.5		0.4		0.4
Rabbi Trust
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Fair value of the assets held in the Rabbi Trust	$5.40	[1]	$5.40
[1]	Represents investments held in a Rabbi trust associated with one of our deferred compensation plans, which we include in “Other assets” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value of the assets held in the funded deferred compensation plan is based on quoted market prices. See Note 11, “Employee Benefit Plans,” for further information.

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Defined1

Employee Benefit Plans - Defined Contribution Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of 401(k) savings plans	5
Defined Contribution Pension Plan 401k
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$10.80	$9.90	$9

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Multiem

Employee Benefit Plans - Multiemployer Defined Benefit Pension Plans (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Contributions by the Company	$62.90		$59.30	$58.70
Building Service 32BJ Pension Fund
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Employee Identification Number	131879376
Pension Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Red		Red
Pension Protection Act Zone Status Date	30-Jun-14		30-Jun-14
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	Implemented
Contributions by the Company	14.3		13.7	14.6
Surcharge Imposed	No
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, Last	31-Dec-15
Central Pension Fund of the IUOE & Participating Employers
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Employee Identification Number	366052390
Pension Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green		Green
Pension Protection Act Zone Status Date	31-Jan-14		31-Jan-13
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	NA	[1]
Contributions by the Company	9.8		9.7	10.2
Surcharge Imposed	NA	[1]
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, First	5-Mar-15
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, Last	31-Oct-16
Local 25 SEIU & Participating Employers Pension Trust
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Employee Identification Number	366486542
Pension Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green		Green
Pension Protection Act Zone Status Date	30-Sep-13		30-Sep-12
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	NA	[1]
Contributions by the Company	6.8		7.4	7.5
Surcharge Imposed	NA	[1]
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, First	5-Apr-15
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, Last	24-Apr-16
S.E.I.U. National Industry Pension Fund
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Employee Identification Number	526148540
Pension Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Red		Red
Pension Protection Act Zone Status Date	31-Dec-13		31-Dec-12
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	Implemented
Contributions by the Company	5.9		5.3	4.2
Surcharge Imposed	Yes
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, First	30-Jun-15
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, Last	31-Dec-16
IUOE Stationary Engineers Local 39 Pension Fund
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Employee Identification Number	946118939
Pension Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green		Green
Pension Protection Act Zone Status Date	31-Dec-13		31-Dec-12
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	NA	[1]
Contributions by the Company	5.6		5.2	5.7
Surcharge Imposed	NA	[1]
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, First	31-Jan-16
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, Last	28-Feb-18
Local 68 Engineers Union Pension Plan
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Employee Identification Number	510176618
Pension Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Yellow		Green
Pension Protection Act Zone Status Date	30-Jun-13		30-Jun-12
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	Implemented
Contributions by the Company	3.2		2.7	3.1
Surcharge Imposed	NA	[1]
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, First	15-Jun-15
Expiration Dates of Collective Bargaining Agreements, Last	31-Aug-18
Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ, District 36 Building Operators Pension Trust Fund
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Employee Identification Number	236546776
Pension Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Yellow		Yellow
Pension Protection Act Zone Status Date	31-Dec-14		31-Dec-13
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	Implemented
Contributions by the Company	1.8		2	2.1
Surcharge Imposed	NA	[1]
IUOE Local 30 Pension Fund
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Employee Identification Number	516045848
Pension Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green		Green
Pension Protection Act Zone Status Date	31-Dec-13		31-Dec-12
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	NA	[1]
Contributions by the Company	1.3		1.4	1.6
Surcharge Imposed	NA	[1]
Other Plans
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Contributions by the Company	$14.20		$11.90	$9.70
Minimum
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Green Zone Multiemployer Plan Funded Percentage	80.00%		80.00%
Maximum
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Yellow Zone Multiemployer Plans Funded Percentage	80.00%		80.00%
Red Zone Multiemployer Plans Funded Percentage	65.00%		65.00%
[1]	*Not applicable

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Multiem1

Employee Benefit Plans - Multiemployer Defined Benefit Pension Plans - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contributions by the Company	$62.90	$59.30	$58.70
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contributions by the Company	$220	$204.90	$196.70

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies - Future Minimum Lease Commitments (Detail) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Capital Lease Commitments
31-Oct-15	$2
31-Oct-16	0.7
31-Oct-17	0.1
31-Oct-18	0
31-Oct-19	0
Thereafter	0
Total minimum lease commitments	2.8	[1]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
31-Oct-15	77.7	[2]
31-Oct-16	55.3	[2]
31-Oct-17	46.4	[2]
31-Oct-18	35.1	[2]
31-Oct-19	19.9	[2]
Thereafter	32.3	[2]
Total minimum lease commitments	266.7	[1],[2]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Imputed Interest	0.1
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments	$2.70
[1]	Our capital lease obligation includes total imputed interest of $0.1 million for a present value of minimum lease payments of $2.7 million.
[2]	Sublease rental income was immaterial for all periods presented and is expected to be immaterial in the future.

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Rental Expense for Continuing Operations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Minimum rentals	$107.40	$104	$101.50
Contingent rentals	28.5	30.2	32.5
Total	$135.90	$134.20	$134

Commitments_and_Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2012	Feb. 08, 2012	Jan. 14, 2013	Apr. 11, 2013	17-May-12	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Surety bonds						$339,700,000
Total letters of credit						114,900,000	100,600,000
Total guarantees						30,400,000	37,000,000
Loss contingency amount accrued for probable losses						5,100,000
Amount of reasonably possible losses, Minimum						0
Amount of reasonably possible losses, Maximum						98,800,000
Effective date starting after October 31, 2013
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Surety bonds						6,900,000
Contract dispute, work performed by a third party administrative
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency amount accrued for probable losses						3,400,000
Augustus
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, estimate of possible loss						94,200,000
Damages sought amount		103,100,000
Payment awarded to plaintiffs	89,700,000
Augustus | Motion against others
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Damages sought amount	12,400,000		4,500,000
Bojorquez
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Payment awarded to plaintiffs				$2,500,000	$800,000

Preferred_and_Common_Stock_Add

Preferred and Common Stock - Additional information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares authorized	500,000	500,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Stock repurchased, number of shares	800,000
Stock repurchased, average price per share	$26.20
Stock repurchased, value	$20
Maximum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount	$50

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_1

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Summary of Total Compensation Expense and Related Income Tax Benefit (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation	$16.30	$13.30	$10.20
Income tax benefit	-6.8	-5.5	-4.2
Share based compensation expense net of tax	$9.50	$7.80	$6

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_2

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Shares issued upon exercise of options	974,399	1,031,867	967,123
Total intrinsic value of shares exercised	$3.80	$4.10	$2.70
Total fair value of shares vested	$9	$7.60	$5.90
Weighted average grant date fair value of shares	$27.70	$19.70	$16.80
Authorized for issuance	10,279,265
Shares available for award	1,230,628
TSR awards, earned basis period	3 years

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_3

Share-Based Compensation Plans - RSU Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014
RSUs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of the awards that vest per year	50.00%
Vesting period	3 years
Total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures	$18.50
Weighted-average vesting period	2 years 9 months 20 days
Aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding	38
Aggregate intrinsic value of vested	4.5
Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of the awards that vest per year	25.00%
Total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures	$2.50
Weighted-average vesting period	2 years
Options expire after the date of grant	7 years

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_4

Share-Based Compensation Plans - RSU Activity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Granted	$27.70	$19.70	$16.80
RSUs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation	0.1
Number of Shares
Outstanding at beginning of the year	1.4
Granted	0.3
Issued (including .1 shares withheld for income taxes)	-0.2
Forfeited	-0.1
Outstanding at end of the year	1.4
Vested at end of period	0.2
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Outstanding at beginning of the year	$21.70
Granted	$27.80
Issued (including .1 shares withheld for income taxes)	$19.80
Forfeited	$22.20
Outstanding at end of the year	$23.40
Vested at end of period	$20.10

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_5

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Stock Option Narrative (Details) (Stock options, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014
Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of the awards that vest per year	25.00%
Options expire after the date of grant	7 years
Total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures	$2.50
Weighted-average vesting period	2 years

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_6

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Stock Option Activity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014
Number of Shares
Outstanding at beginning of period	1.6
Exercised	-0.4
Outstanding at end of period	1.2
Vested and exercisable at end of period	0.5
Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share
Outstanding at beginning of period	$21.60
Exercised	$20.90
Outstanding at end of period	$21.80
Exercisable at end of period	$20.20
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
Outstanding at end of period	3 years 9 months 20 days
Exercisable at end of period	3 years 8 months 13 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at end of period	$7.20
Exercisable at end of period	$3.50

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_7

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Performance Share Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Service period of TSR awards	3 years
Performance Based Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures	10.1
Weighted-average vesting period	1 year 10 months 25 days
Aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding	29.5
Aggregate intrinsic value of vested	0.2
Performance Based Shares | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of the awards that vest per year	0.00%
Performance Based Shares | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of the awards that vest per year	150.00%

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_8

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Performance Share Activity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share
Granted	$27.70	$19.70	$16.80
Performance Share Program
Schedule Of Activity Related To Performance Share Units [Line Items]
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation	0.1
Number of Shares
Outstanding at beginning of the year	0.9
Granted	0.4
Issued (including .1 shares withheld for income taxes)	-0.2
Outstanding at end of the year	1.1
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share
Outstanding at beginning of the year	$22.30
Granted	$27.70
Issued (including .1 shares withheld for income taxes)	$25
Outstanding at end of the year	$23.90

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_9

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Assumption Used in Option Valuation Model (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Expected life from the date of grant	2 years 1 month 25 days	[1]	5 years 4 months 13 days	[1]	5 years 7 months 6 days	[1]
Expected stock price volatility	19.00%	[2]	38.80%	[2]	41.60%	[2]
Expected dividend yield	2.40%	[3]	2.40%	[3]	3.00%	[3]
Risk-free interest rate	0.60%	[4]	1.80%	[4]	0.80%	[4]
Share Price	$26.60	[5]
Weighted average fair value of option grants			$7.50		$5.30
[1]	For TSR awards valued under the Monte Carlo simulation model, the expected life represents the remaining performance period of the awards. For stock options valued under the Black-Scholes options-pricing model, the expected life is based on observed historical exercise patterns of the previously granted options adjusted to reflect the change in vesting and expiration dates.
[2]	For the Monte Carlo simulation model, the expected volatility for each grant is determined based on the historical volatility of our common stock over a period equal to the remaining term of the performance period from the date of grant for all awards. For the Black-Scholes options-pricing model, the expected volatility is based on considerations of implied volatility from publicly traded and quoted options on our common stock and the historical volatility of our common stock.
[3]	The dividend yield is based on the historical dividend yield over the expected life of the awards granted.
[4]	For the Monte Carlo simulation and Black-Scholes options-pricing models, the risk-free interest rate is based on the continuous compounded yield on U.S. Treasury Constant Maturity Rates. For TSR awards valued under the Monte Carlo simulation model, the remaining term is determined over a period of time that is commensurate with the performance period from the grant date. For stock option awards valued under the Black-Scholes options-pricing models, the remaining term is equal to the expected term of the option.
[5]	The stock price is the closing price of our common stock on the valuation date.

Recovered_Sheet1

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Prior Plan Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014
Age-Vested Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	1 year
Time-Vested Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of the awards that vest per year	20.00%
Vesting period	1 year
Price-Vested Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options expire after the date of grant	10 years
Price-Vested Plan | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	4 years
Price-Vested Plan | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	8 years
Age-Vested Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures	0.3
Weighted-average vesting period	7 years 7 months 5 days
Option Holders Reaching their 61st Birthday | Age-Vested Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of the awards that vest per year	50.00%
Option Holders Reaching Their 64th Birthday | Age-Vested Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of the awards that vest per year	50.00%

Recovered_Sheet2

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Prior Plan Activity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014
Number of Shares
Outstanding at beginning of period	1.6
Exercised	-0.4
Outstanding at end of period	1.2
Exercisable at end of period	0.5
Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share
Outstanding at beginning of period	$21.60
Exercised	$20.90
Outstanding at end of period	$21.80
Exercisable at end of period	$20.20
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
Outstanding at end of period	3 years 9 months 20 days
Exercisable at end of period	3 years 8 months 13 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at end of period	$7.20
Prior Plans [Member]
Number of Shares
Outstanding at beginning of period	0.8
Exercised	-0.2
Outstanding at end of period	0.6
Exercisable at end of period	0.4
Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share
Outstanding at beginning of period	$17.30
Exercised	$18.90
Outstanding at end of period	$16.80
Exercisable at end of period	$18.20
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
Outstanding at end of period	17 years 9 months 19 days
Exercisable at end of period	9 years 2 months 13 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at end of period	6.2
Exercisable at end of period	$3.60

Recovered_Sheet3

Share-Based Compensation Plans - Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Mar. 01, 2010	1-May-06
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Authorized for issuance	10,279,265
Weighted average fair values of purchase rights	$1.40	$1.10
Shares of stock issued under the plan	165,062	186,271	200,108
Weighted average price	$25.80	$21.30	$19.90
Aggregate purchases	$4,300,000	$4,000,000
Shares remaining unissued	402,881
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Authorized for issuance				3,000,000
Percentage of purchase price of fair market value of the Company's common stock on the last trading day of the month					95.00%
Percentage of compensation to purchase	10.00%
Annual limit on purchase of stock	25,000
Weighted average fair values of purchase rights			$1.10
Aggregate purchases			$4,000,000

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Inc

Income Taxes - Components of Income Before Income Taxes and Provision for Income Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Current:
Federal	$36.20	$15.30	$9.70
State	9.1	10.9	10.5
Foreign	1.3	0.8	0
Deferred:
Federal	0.8	10	11.1
State	1.4	2.5	-1.3
Provision for income taxes	$48.80	$39.50	$30

Income_Taxes_Difference_Betwee

Income Taxes - Difference Between U.S. Statutory Tax Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	6.50%	6.50%	6.50%
Federal and state tax credits	-2.60%	-8.60%	-5.50%
Impact of change in state tax rate	0.10%	0.50%	1.20%
Changes in uncertain tax positions	-1.70%	-1.40%	-7.20%
Nondeductible expenses and other, net	1.90%	3.10%	2.40%
Annual effective tax rate	39.20%	35.10%	32.40%

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
	state
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Re-measurement of certain unrecognized tax benefits			$6.90
Other Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations		4.1
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	78.6	80.9	81.6
Maximum decrease in unrecognized tax benefits that is reasonably possible	8
Uncertain tax positions, interest and penalties accrued	2.2	1.3
Uncertain tax positions, interest and penalties recognized and expensed	0.9	0.2	0.2
Number of states in which entity operates	50
Additional
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Other Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations			1.9
State and Local Jurisdiction
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	$10.90

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Def

Income Taxes - Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:
Self-insurance claims (net of recoverables)	$113	$114.90
Deferred and other compensation	35.6	33.6
Accounts receivable allowances	3.7	3.9
Settlement liabilities	2	0.6
Other accruals	3.6	2.3
Other comprehensive income	1.2	1.4
State taxes	0.8	0.7
State net operating loss carryforwards	7.1	8.1
Tax credits	5.1	6.1
Other	0.9	1
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross, Total	173	172.6
Valuation allowance	-6.2	-6.2
Total deferred tax assets	166.8	166.4
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property, plant and equipment	-1.1	-5.5
Goodwill and other acquired intangibles	-135.5	-126.9
Total deferred tax liabilities	136.6	132.4
Net deferred tax assets	$30.20	$34

Income_Taxes_Reconciliation_of

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Total Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$87.60	$88.40	$95.90
Additions for tax positions related to the current year	1.4	1.7	0.6
Reductions for tax positions related to the current year	0	-0.6	0
Additions for tax positions related to prior years	0	0.6	0.9
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	0	-0.1	-7.3
Reductions for expiration of statute of limitations	-3.2	-1.5	-0.1
Settlements	-0.3	-0.9	-1.6
Ending Balance	$85.50	$87.60	$88.40

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa2

Segment and Geographic Information - Reportable Operating Segments (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended										12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Jul. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013		Jul. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$1,298.90		$1,276.10	$1,231.30	$1,226.50	$1,236.80		$1,216.80	$1,173.60	$1,182.10	$5,032.80	[1]	$4,809.30	[1]	$4,300.30	[1]
Operating profit											128.6		119		96.6
Other-than-temporary impairment credit losses on auction rate security recognized in earnings											0		0		-0.3
Income from unconsolidated affiliates, net											6.5		6.3		6.4
Interest expense											-10.7		-12.9		-10
Income from continuing operations before income taxes											124.4		112.4		92.7
Total Identifiable Assets	2,192.90					2,119.20					2,192.90		2,119.20
Segment, Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Identifiable Assets	2,192.90	[2]				2,119.20	[2]				2,192.90	[2]	2,119.20	[2]	1,850.80	[2]
Janitorial
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues											2,583.20		2,480.50		2,390.60
Operating profit											144.4		135.4		135.4
Janitorial | Segment, Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Identifiable Assets	952.8	[2]				887.5	[2]				952.8	[2]	887.5	[2]	861.2	[2]
Facility Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues											599.3		609.4		576.1
Operating profit											26.9		27.4		23.1
Facility Services | Segment, Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Identifiable Assets	198.8	[2]				211.3	[2]				198.8	[2]	211.3	[2]	214.6	[2]
Parking
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues											616.1		609.1		615.1
Operating profit											30.9		27.5		26.2
Parking | Segment, Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Identifiable Assets	140.6	[2]				141.9	[2]				140.6	[2]	141.9	[2]	153.6	[2]
Security
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues											383.1		381.5		365.9
Operating profit											12.5		13		7.8
Security | Segment, Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Identifiable Assets	116	[2]				112.7	[2]				116	[2]	112.7	[2]	111.3	[2]
Building & Energy Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues											483.8		401.5		348.3
Adjustment for income from unconsolidated affiliates											-6.6		-6.2		-3.4
Operating profit											23.1		15.3		10.2
Building & Energy Solutions | Segment, Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Identifiable Assets	334.9	[2]				296.2	[2]				334.9	[2]	296.2	[2]	232.1	[2]
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues											367.3		326.4		3.8
Operating profit											12.2		11.8		0.6
Other | Segment, Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Identifiable Assets	224.4	[2]				231.9	[2]				224.4	[2]	231.9	[2]	2.6	[2]
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues											0		0.9		0.5
Operating profit											-114.8		-105.2		-103.3
Corporate | Segment, Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Identifiable Assets	225.4	[2]				237.7	[2]				225.4	[2]	237.7	[2]	275.4	[2]
Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Prior period reclassification adjustment													15.1		3.8
Operating Profit
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Prior period reclassification adjustment													0.8		0.6
Selling and Marketing Expense
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Prior period reclassification adjustment													$3.40		$2.10
[1]	Substantially all of our long-lived assets are related to United States operations.
[2]	Excludes assets of discontinued operations of $0.4 million as of October 31, 2012.

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa3

Segment and Geographic Information - Reportable Operating Segments (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Assets of discontinued operations	$0.40

Summary_of_Reportable_Operatin

Summary of Reportable Operating Segments (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	$57.30	$60.40	$50.90
Capital Expenditures	37.4	32.6	28
Janitorial
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	17.9	18	18
Capital Expenditures	13.2	14.7	12.4
Facility Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	3.9	4.4	5
Capital Expenditures	0.1	0	0
Parking
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	2.9	3.2	3.5
Capital Expenditures	2.2	2.5	2.2
Security
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	0.9	1	1.2
Capital Expenditures	0	0.2	0.2
Building & Energy Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	11.4	11.3	8.8
Capital Expenditures	3.1	1.2	0.8
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	11.9	11.5	0
Capital Expenditures	5.1	2.4	0
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	8.4	11	14.4
Capital Expenditures	$13.70	$11.60	$12.40

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa4

Segment and Geographic Information - Summary of Revenues by Geographic Region (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Oct. 31, 2014

Jul. 31, 2014

Apr. 30, 2014

Jan. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Jul. 31, 2013

Apr. 30, 2013

Jan. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2012

Geographic Information [Line Items]

Revenues

$1,298.90

$1,276.10

$1,231.30

$1,226.50

$1,236.80

$1,216.80

$1,173.60

$1,182.10

$5,032.80

[1]

$4,809.30

[1]

$4,300.30

[1]

Domestic country

Geographic Information [Line Items]

Revenues

4,902.50

[1]

4,703

[1]

4,243

[1]

All other countries

Geographic Information [Line Items]

Revenues

$130.30

[1]

$106.30

[1]

$57.30

[1]

[1]

Substantially all of our long-lived assets are related to United States operations.

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D2

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Jul. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Jul. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Revenues	$1,298.90	$1,276.10	$1,231.30	$1,226.50	$1,236.80	$1,216.80	$1,173.60	$1,182.10	$5,032.80	[1]	$4,809.30	[1]	$4,300.30	[1]
Gross profit	142	131.4	127.9	118	135.2	121.1	125.4	114.2
Net income	$27.90	$19.40	$15.20	$13.10	$24.20	$16	$19.30	$13.40	$75.60		$72.90		$62.60
Net income per common share-Basic (in usd per share)	$0.50	$0.34	$0.27	$0.23	$0.44	$0.29	$0.35	$0.25	$1.35		$1.33		$1.16
Net income per common share-Diluted (in usd per share)	$0.49	$0.34	$0.27	$0.23	$0.43	$0.29	$0.35	$0.24	$1.32		$1.30		$1.14
[1]	Substantially all of our long-lived assets are related to United States operations.

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2012
Accounts receivable allowances
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance Beginning of Year	$10.20		$11.10		$13.50
Charges to Costs and Expenses	18.5		21		14.6
Write-offs/Allowance Taken	-18.1	[1]	-21.9	[1]	-17	[1]
Balance End of Year	10.6		10.2		11.1
Valuation allowance of deferred tax assets
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance Beginning of Year	6.2		6		5.8
Charges to Costs and Expenses	0.3		0.8		0.5
Write-offs/Allowance Taken	-0.3	[1]	-0.6	[1]	-0.3	[1]
Balance End of Year	$6.20		$6.20		$6
[1]	Write-offs are net of recoveries