6 Must-Ask Questions for Potential Cleaning Services

These days more and more people are turning to cleaning services or maids to manage the chore of cleaning their homes. While having some help around the house is a big time-saver, actually hiring a housekeeping service can be a tedious and time-consuming process.

Where do you start?

 Many people are not sure about the best way to find a suitable cleaning service. For most people, they choose to obtain a referral from a friend, or family member or read online reviews. When you’re doing your homework consider the benefits of hiring a cleaning service company vs an individual. While it may be a little cheaper to hire an individual, you could be putting yourself at bigger risk of them not performing the service in a reasonable time frame or not showing up at all. With a reputable cleaning service, there is also usually more flexibility with scheduling and the backing of a brand behind the service you’re getting.

It’s important to do your homework when deciding on a cleaning service because having someone you trust in your home with all your important possessions is no small task. With this list of questions, you’ll feel more in control and have clearer expectations for your potential housecleaning service.

 1. How do you set rates?
Some cleaning services choose to price their services per sq. ft, number of employees needed or just give a flat hourly rate. Other providers may give also give you a price based on what service is being provided, such as a flat fee for end of lease cleaning, or the number of rooms.

 2. How much experience do you have
While it may be tempting to go with the cleaning service that quotes you the least, are you sure they’re going to know the best & most efficient way to clean your home? That kind of knowledge only comes with experience.

3. Will you use all your own cleaning supplies and tools?
​While most cleaning services bring their own cleaning products, it is worth checking to see if you’ll be expected to supply ladders, vacuums or other cleaning supplies.

 4. What kind of cleaning products will be used?
​Due to the often harsh nature cleaning products, it’s really important to understand what kind of chemicals will be used in your home. It's best to make sure your cleaning service uses eco-friendly products that won’t leave harmful residue. If they are using products you’re not happy with, make sure to ask if you can supply your own.

 5. Do your staff have background checks?
​While most cleaning companies conduct background checks as standard, hiring an independent individual means being responsible for doing a background screening yourself.

 6. Is your company insured or bonded?
​Even with the most trustworthy cleaning service, this is still important to ask as accidents happen. Ensuring your cleaning service has a policy for if something gets damaged, broken, or goes missing will give you peace of mind.

Lastly, before you go off to enjoy all the spare time you’ll save with a cleaning service, make sure any agreed upon service comes with a written contract. This not only helps outline expectations but also helps avoid any unwanted surprises down the road. 

Ready to take the plunge or have more questions about what services we can help you with? Contact our team at Peak Janitorial today!