Most problems with cleaners come from unclear expectations, not bad cleaning. Use these questions to compare companies and independent cleaners side by side.
12 Questions to Ask
- Are you insured? Can you send a certificate of general liability insurance?
- Do your cleaners have workers' compensation coverage (or are they contractors)?
- Are you bonded? (See what bonding covers.)
- Do you run background checks on cleaners?
- Will the same cleaner or team come each time?
- What exactly is included in a standard clean, and what costs extra?
- Do you bring supplies and equipment? Can you use my products (or green products)?
- How do you price: flat fee, per hour, or per cleaner-hour?
- Is there a satisfaction guarantee, such as a free re-clean within 24 hours?
- What is your cancellation and lockout policy?
- How do you handle keys, alarm codes and pets?
- Who do I contact if something is broken or missing?
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Red Flags
- Will not put the price or scope in writing
- Asks for full payment up front for a recurring service
- No proof of insurance, or a certificate in a different business name
- Pressure to decide on the spot, or a quote far below every other quote
Check Them Out
Look up the business with your state's secretary of state (business registration) and search for complaints with your state attorney general or the Better Business Bureau. Read reviews on several sites, looking at how the company responds to problems. Find options on our state and city pages.