TIPS FOR HIRING AND KEEPING A HOUSE CLEANING COMPANY YOU'LL LOVE
Hiring a House Cleaner, especially for the first time, can seem like a daunting task.
Here are a few simple tips to help you know what to look for, what to ask, and how to set expectations.
1) Ask for referrals from friends, neighbors, coworkers or networking partners.
2) Research the company’s website and online reviews. Look for good reviews posted directly from clients, updated website info, useful and inviting content.
3) Call or email and expect a return call or email in 48 hours or less.
4) You should expect to receive (feel free to ask for) per-hour rates and minimums over the phone, but do not expect to receive an accurate quote for your specific home without an in-home estimate.
5) Schedule an in-home estimate and ask lots of questions.
a. Do your cleaners work in 1-, 2- or 3-person teams?
b. How do you prefer to receive access if I’m not home? (Lockbox or garage code)
c. Do you bring all the necessary supplies? Are they eco-friendly?
d. Can I request that you use my vacuum because of my allergies?
e. Is it ok if I leave a note?
f. What is your system for understanding specific priorities and requests?
g. Do you require any contracts? Have cancellation fees?
6) Expect to receive some sort of welcome/introduction information. Make sure all your questions are answered.
7) Schedule your first cleaning. Make sure you have time to look over the work that was done and compare it to the expectations you set at your initial meeting.
8) Communicate directly after the first several cleanings so that your new house cleaning team knows what you like. Remember, the easiest way to strengthen the communication between you and your new house cleaner is to be encouraging and specific about the things you like. It’s just as important to offer constructive criticism about the things you feel need improving.
9) Even though your house cleaner may not be able to achieve a super-human level of intuition and perfection, you should expect that your comments will be well received and acted upon cheerfully.