Summary of Reportable Operating Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	$ 60,390	$ 50,897	$ 52,658
Capital Expenditures	32,593	28,052	22,124
Janitorial
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	17,901	18,010	19,035
Capital Expenditures	14,694	12,367	10,048
Facility Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	4,371	4,933	5,247
Capital Expenditures	11	23	634
Parking
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	3,148	3,512	3,644
Capital Expenditures	2,523	2,219	2,023
Security
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	1,036	1,218	1,441
Capital Expenditures	173	203	141
Building & Energy Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	11,341	8,798	9,967
Capital Expenditures	1,226	828	646
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	11,588
Capital Expenditures	2,402
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and Amortization	11,005	14,426	13,324
Capital Expenditures	$ 11,564	$ 12,412	$ 8,632