20 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Professional House Cleaning Service

Hiring a professional house cleaning service can be a game-changer for your household, whether you’re looking to save time, reduce stress, or ensure your home is consistently clean. But with so many options available, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure you’re hiring the best service for your needs. Below are 20 essential questions to consider before making your decision.

1. What Are the Cleaning Services Offered?

Before hiring a professional cleaning service, it’s essential to know what types of cleaning they offer. The two most common categories are standard cleaning and deep cleaning.

• Standard Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning: Standard cleaning typically involves routine tasks like dusting, vacuuming, and mopping, while deep cleaning goes beyond the surface, targeting areas like baseboards, window tracks, and grout.
• What’s Included in Each Package? Always ask for a detailed list of services included in both standard and deep cleaning packages to avoid misunderstandings.

2. Is the Company Licensed and Insured?

A reputable cleaning service should have the necessary licensing and insurance to protect both their employees and your property.

• Why Licensing Matters: Licensing ensures that the business operates legally and adheres to local regulations.
• The Importance of Insurance Coverage: Insurance protects you in the event of damage to your property or an injury to a cleaner on the job.

3. What Experience Does the Company Have?

Experience is a vital indicator of reliability and quality.

• Years in Business: How long has the company been in operation? A long history usually points to a stable and trusted business.
• Specialization in Residential vs. Commercial Cleaning: Some companies specialize in residential cleaning, while others focus on commercial spaces. Make sure they are experts in cleaning homes like yours.

4. How Do They Screen Their Cleaners?

Your home’s safety is a priority, so knowing how a company screens its cleaners is essential.

• Background Checks and Vetting Process: Reputable companies conduct thorough background checks on their employees.
• Ongoing Training and Certifications: Ongoing training ensures that cleaners stay updated on the best practices and latest cleaning technologies.

5. Are Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products Available?

Eco-conscious homeowners should inquire about green cleaning options.

• The Benefits of Green Cleaning: Green cleaning products reduce harmful chemicals in your home and are better for the environment.
• Do They Provide Green Cleaning on Request? Some companies offer eco-friendly cleaning products as an add-on service, while others include them as part of their standard offering.

6. Do They Have Flexible Scheduling Options?

Flexibility is key when hiring a cleaning service.

• One-Time vs. Recurring Services: Can the service accommodate both one-time deep cleans and recurring weekly or bi-weekly services?
• How Far in Advance to Book: How much notice is needed to schedule a cleaning session?

7. What is Their Cancellation Policy?

Life happens, and sometimes you need to cancel or reschedule.

• Cancellation Fees and Terms: Make sure you’re aware of any fees or penalties associated with last-minute cancellations.
• Rescheduling Options: Can you reschedule at no extra cost if something comes up?

8. Do They Offer Customized Cleaning Plans?

Every home is unique, and your cleaning needs may differ from someone else’s.

• Tailoring Services to Client Needs: Can the cleaning service adjust their approach based on your specific needs?
• Adjusting for Special Requests: If you have certain preferences, like focusing more on the kitchen, is the company willing to accommodate?

9. What Are Their Rates and Payment Options?

Understanding the cost structure upfront is crucial.

• Flat Rate vs. Hourly Charges: Some companies charge by the hour, while others offer flat rates. Find out which pricing model works best for your needs.
• Payment Methods Accepted: Can you pay via credit card, bank transfer, or check? Ask if they offer payment plans for recurring services.

10. Are There Additional Charges for Extra Services?

Some services may not be included in the initial quote.

• What Constitutes an Extra Service? Tasks like cleaning inside the fridge, windows, or organizing closets may cost extra.
• How to Avoid Unexpected Costs: Ask for a full breakdown of potential additional charges before booking.

11. What Guarantees Do They Offer?

When hiring a professional house cleaning service, knowing what guarantees are in place is essential to ensure you receive quality service.

• Satisfaction Guarantees: Many companies offer satisfaction guarantees, meaning they will return to correct any issues if you’re not happy with the service provided. It’s worth checking how long you have to raise a concern after the cleaning.
• Do They Offer Free Recalls for Dissatisfaction? Some services will offer a free re-clean if you’re not satisfied, while others may charge a small fee. Always inquire about their specific terms regarding re-cleans or touch-ups.

12. How Do They Ensure Consistency in Service Quality?

Consistency is key in professional cleaning, especially if you’re hiring for recurring services.

• Supervision and Quality Control: Does the cleaning service have a supervisor who ensures that the cleaning is up to standard? Companies with supervisors or quality control checks are generally more reliable.
• Feedback Mechanisms for Continuous Improvement: Ask if they have a formal feedback process, like surveys or follow-up calls, to gauge customer satisfaction and make necessary improvements over time.

13. Do They Provide Cleaning Supplies and Equipment?

Different companies have different policies regarding cleaning supplies and equipment.

• What Supplies are Brought by the Company? Some services provide all necessary supplies and equipment, while others may expect you to supply items like vacuum cleaners or specialty products.
• Should Clients Provide Anything? It’s essential to clarify this upfront to avoid confusion on the day of service. If you prefer specific products, ask if they can use your supplies instead.

14. How Does the Company Handle Special Cleaning Needs?

Not all homes are the same, and some may require special attention to certain areas or concerns.

• Dealing with Pets, Allergies, and Delicate Items: If you have pets, inquire about the cleaning company’s experience with pet hair, dander, and potential allergens. Similarly, if someone in your household has allergies, you’ll want to ensure the company can accommodate these needs by using hypoallergenic products.
• Specialized Services for Unique Situations: Homes with delicate items, such as antiques or expensive electronics, may need extra care. Ensure the company knows how to handle these situations without causing damage.

15. Can They Provide References or Customer Testimonials?

A reputable cleaning service should have a track record of happy clients.

• The Importance of Verifiable References: Ask for references from previous clients or check online reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp. A company with multiple positive reviews is often a safe choice.
• Where to Find Reviews: Don’t just rely on the testimonials provided by the company. Look for unbiased reviews from third-party sources to get a clearer picture of their reputation.

16. Do They Have a Satisfaction Policy?

It’s important to know how the cleaning service handles complaints and ensures customer satisfaction.

• Handling Complaints and Dissatisfaction: If something goes wrong, how does the company address it? A good service will have a clear and easy-to-understand process for resolving complaints.
• Are Re-Cleans an Option? Many professional cleaning services offer re-cleans if the client is not satisfied with the initial job. Ask about their policy regarding re-cleaning services.

17. Is There a Minimum Contract Length?

Depending on your needs, the company may require a minimum commitment for recurring services.

• Short-Term vs. Long-Term Contracts: Some cleaning services operate on a contract basis, especially for recurring cleanings. Others allow for more flexibility with no long-term commitment. Make sure you’re clear about whether you’re locked into a contract or free to cancel at any time.
• Can You Cancel at Any Time? Even if there is a contract in place, it’s important to know whether there are penalties for cancellation. Be sure to ask about the terms before signing anything.

18. Do They Follow a Set Cleaning Checklist?

A cleaning checklist can help ensure that all tasks are completed during each visit.

• Standardized Checklists for Thoroughness: Many cleaning companies provide a checklist of tasks to be completed during the cleaning. This helps ensure consistency and thoroughness.
• Can the Checklist be Customized? Ask if the checklist can be adjusted to suit your specific needs. If there are particular areas of your home that need more attention, the company should be willing to accommodate these requests.

19. What Is Their COVID-19 Safety Protocol?

Health and safety have become even more important since the pandemic, and cleaning services should be up to date with COVID-19 protocols.

• Health and Safety Measures for Clients and Cleaners: Inquire about the company’s approach to keeping both cleaners and clients safe. Do they follow strict sanitization protocols? Are cleaners required to wear masks and gloves?
• Are Cleaners Vaccinated or Tested? Some clients may prefer that the cleaning staff be vaccinated or undergo regular COVID-19 testing. Make sure to ask about these policies if it’s a concern for your household.

20. What Makes Them Stand Out from Competitors?

Finally, it’s worth asking the cleaning service what sets them apart from their competition.

• Unique Selling Propositions (USPs): Does the company offer anything special, such as eco-friendly cleaning, 24/7 availability, or a specialized team for different cleaning tasks? Knowing what makes them unique can help you make an informed decision.
• What Do Customers Love Most About the Service? Ask them to share specific feedback or testimonials that highlight what clients appreciate most about their service. This can give you further confidence in your decision.

Conclusion

When hiring a professional house cleaning service, asking the right questions can save you time, money, and hassle. By covering all the important bases—from services offered to safety protocols—you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve made an informed decision. Whether it’s for a one-time deep clean or ongoing maintenance, the right cleaning service can make all the difference in your home.