Selecting Your Perfect House Cleaning Service

Most Americans are already under immense time pressure trying to balance a career and family/social obligations. Studies show that of the scarce free time that Americans enjoy approximately 1 – 3 hours a week is spent cleaning.

That is not an optimal use of free time – but a housecleaner can make a huge difference.

If you are in the market for a reliable and professional housecleaner but don’t know the best way to go about finding that perfect housecleaning helper? The following 9 hints and tips can make the process much easier.

1. Experience and Credentials are Important

Always enquire how long the housekeeper has been in the business. Companies that have a firm and positive track record of supplying cleaning solutions are far less likely to be a fly-by-night organization.

Firms that have sub-standard reputations tend to simply close up shop and reopen under a new name. But they will not boast the years of reliable service that a company with history can provide.

The recognition that these experienced companies receive is more than just fee-good’ feedback. It influences how people perceive it – in other words, its reputation. A great example is Cleaning Time – which is ranked extremely highly by Home Adviser.

2. Ask about their Range of Services

It’s best to know what is on offer by the company before your expectations are not met. Or you are disappointed in the offering. remember that a company’s cost estimate is based on what services they can offer – make sure that you let them know about your expectations.

However, it’s not a one-way street. The organization that you choose is going to have you meet certain obligations. For example, many of these companies will demand that you strip bedding prior to their representative arriving. Once again – your requirements should be perfectly clear – and you need to set boundaries.

3. Insurance is a Deal Breaker

You need to enquire about the cleaning service’s insurance and what it will cover. For example, if the cleaning service damages either the structure or the assets inside the home will you have to cover it – or will they? What about in the event of a theft?

Asa homeowner you also need to take workman’s compensation into account. You certainly do not want to be paying medical bills in the event of an accident at your premises. Make sure that the company will pay in these sorts of situations. It’s a case of paying for what you get, companies that offer a comprehensive range of insurance will often cost a bit more than other companies – but it’s worth it for your peace of mind.

4. Do they Guarantee their Work?

It is essential that you ask the cleaning services company about their guarantees. If there is breakage or damage you want the assurance that the company will handle the claim and all the paperwork. You might take it for granted that the company would cover this sort of claim – but many do not.

Ensuring that the work is done to your satisfaction is important. Ask about the company’s commitment to a ‘satisfaction guarantee’. If you have issues with the work, what procedures do you follow? Are you entitled to a free cleaning appointment or a touch-up? Some offer these sorts of guarantees, while others do not.

5. What is your Ideal Worker?

Make sure that when you are retaining the services of a housekeeper you get someone who matches your temperament – and understands your requirements. Cleaning services also offer full-time or contract cleaners – you need to decide which suits you best.

You will spend less on a contract cleaner, but the staff turnover is quick – so companies sometimes do not commit to training. Full-time employees are subject to better oversight, better employment conditions, and better training opportunities, however, they tend to be more costly.

6. The Importance of a Background Check and an Interview

The interview part of the process of finding the ideal cleaner is extremely important. This is a person who will be given (mostly) access to all areas of your home. An interview can quickly reveal who is trustworthy.

Ask the employer for details of a background check. Do not simply dismiss references. Set aside some time and call them.

7. Ask about Supplies

Ask the service whether you are expected to provide cleaning supplies or if they will handle that.Cleaning Time Home Cleaning provides its own supplies – other companies may ask you to provide anything from equipment like brooms and vacuums to the chemicals used in cleaning.

8. Agree on Rates in Writing

Discuss the rates before you sign a contract of any kind. Make sure that you and the service provider are clear whether you want the hourly rate, a rate based on how often the cleaner visits or calculated by the floor area of your home.

Getting a written quote is useful and will help you make the right decision about services and time allocation. We offer rates based on the square footage of the home,

Getting a quote can help tremendously. For example, we offer a quote service based on the square footage of your home, the service desired, and the frequency of cleaning requested.

9. Enquire about Extra Charges

That written estimate by task is even more important when one considers that many companies offer ‘ extra services that also attract hidden fees. A great example of this is companies that will charge you if a worker misses a day. A cancellation fee for lost wages.

Companies may also charge by residence type. If you live in a condo, townhouse, or apartment that attracts an extra fee – make sure of these details and hidden costs before you appoint a cleaning service company. If you do live on any of these sorts of properties, make sure that you provide the correct details to the cleaning crew so that they do not struggle to gain entry.

The Power of Information

That was a quick guide to some of the factors to take into account when you are in search of the perfect housecleaner. Contact us at Cleaning Time Cleaning Service and find out how you can really start to make the most of your leisure time – one cleaning visit at a time. your weekend one cleaning at a time!