If you’ve never used a home cleaning service before, you probably have a lot of questions. To feel a bit anxious about hiring a company to come into your home and clean is completely natural. But don’t let your unanswered questions linger. Below are eight questions to consider when speaking with cleaning companies.
How much does a home cleaning cost?
Every home is different. Some homes are 4,000 square feet while others are 1,000 square feet. Important pricing considerations are square feet, how many residents, number of pets, number of bathrooms and how often you want your home cleaned. Each company should have a standardized process for calculating their rates and should also be able to explain it to you.
How do I know I can trust the people you send to my home?
Most companies will run a background check but be sure to ask if it’s just a local one or a national one. Feel free to ask questions about the companies hiring process and turnover rate. A strict hiring process means higher quality employees.
What if something gets damaged during a cleaning?
You can probably find a company who will clean your home who isn’t bonded and insured, but any professional company will be both. A bonded and insured company shows that it’s willing to go the extra mile to protect their clients. If they aren’t bonded and insured, ask yourself why. Bonded and insured companies are covered for damage they may cause. If they break it, they replace it or provide equal compensation.
Do you supply the equipment and supplies and are they eco-friendly?
If the company provides the cleaning supplies (think vacuum, cleaning solutions, mops, etc.), then it will be reflected in the price. The majority of professional cleaning services provide their own supplies but it’s important to ask so you know what you’re getting. Plus, find out if they will use specialty cleaning supplies you provide upon request. If they do provide the cleaning supplies, you should ask what they use, especially if you have kids and/or pets. Eco-friendly cleaning products are easily purchased and most home cleaning services will accommodate your request.
What services are included?
This question should be answered when you make your first call. Every company has different levels of cleaning service. For example, companies will offer a deep cleaning or a move-out cleaning. This type of cleaning is more complete than a typical home cleaning you receive weekly or monthly. Learn about the different services they offer and decide which service best fits your needs.
What if I have pets?
Let the cleaning company know if you have pets. A cat may require different handling than two large greyhounds. Most cleaning services will ask that you restrict pets to an area that’s not going to be cleaned. This allows the cleaners to focus on the job at hand and not a cute and furry distraction.
Will the same people always clean my home?
The short answer is no. You may have a core team but cleaners can come and go. Some businesses like to have a team assigned to a certain area and keep cleaning crews with the same homes. Other companies see value in rotating teams. Ask the company how they operate and why. You might like one line of reasoning better than another.
Do I need to be home?
You don’t need to be home but you’re welcome to stay while they clean. It’s not always possible to be home during your home cleaning even if you want to be. That’s why many clients will provide a key to their home and an alarm code if necessary. A good question to ask if you do give keys to a cleaning company is how they store and secure your keys. Your comfort level will depend on how you feel about their process for safeguarding your home.
It’s okay to be a bit nervous hiring your first cleaning company. Often times it’s not knowing that causes the most anxiety. If you want to get answers to all your questions and concerns, contact Mini Maid today. Not only will you get clear answers and set expectations, but you can also receive a free quote! Go check it out and see if it’s for you.
