Are You Looking for a New Cleaning Company?

Are You Looking for a New Cleaning Company? Here Are Some Things to Consider Before Making Your Choice

 

Cleanliness and good home hygiene have never been more important than they are right now. But as things begin returning to normal, many of us are finding that we simply don’t have the time to do all those little jobs that help keep our homes germ-free.

For many people, hiring a cleaning company is becoming less of a luxury and more of an essential. For others, the idea of allowing someone into their otherwise empty house raises concerns. That’s perfectly natural and it’s only right that you should ensure you have complete trust in the cleaners who will be coming into your home. But there are other things to consider to ensure there are no surprises for either of you once work gets underway.

So, we’ve put together a list of the most important things to consider when looking to hire a cleaner:

 

Do your research

This is the most fundamental step. Before you even get in contact with a potential cleaner, check their website for references and find out whether there is any independent verification through Trustpilot or other similar sites.

Have a look on social media. Are there any comments or photos, positive or negative that give an indication of the quality of the work? If you know people who have used the cleaning service before, ask them about it. A reliable word-of-mouth recommendation from people you know and trust is the best indication you’ll get.

 

Check their documentation

A good cleaning company will be able to provide evidence of insurance and confirm that all staff has been background checked. Without these, do not proceed. A cleaning company’s insurance is there to protect you as much as them. Letting in cleaners who are not insured can be an extremely expensive mistake.

Ask questions about the service

‘Cleaning’ can mean different things to different people. Most cleaning companies will have a list of services which includes the price, timescale, and details of the cleaning tasks. You should get a good idea of the services available when you do your initial research. If you want anything clarified this is the time to ask. If there are jobs you want to be done that aren’t listed under any of the services, mention them. If the company does agree to additional tasks, make sure the cost is clear and you have written confirmation.

 

Find out about the products they use

The first to know about the products is who will supply them. Does the cleaning company bring them or do they use what you have in the house? If they give you the option, it’s worth noting that theirs will most likely be better and more cost-effective. If they bring their own, you may want to know what the active ingredients are. Likewise, you might want to ask whether their products are eco-friendly.

Find out how long they have been operating

A well-established company with experienced staff is likely to put you more at ease than somebody just starting out on their own. That doesn’t necessarily mean the new starter is not up to the job. In some cases, you can get a good deal while they are still establishing themselves. The important thing is that you make your decision based on as much knowledge as possible.

 

Ask who will carry out the work?

When you hire a company, you may get different cleaners each week. Again, whether you are comfortable with this is a personal choice. But it’s best to know. If you particularly want the same individual, look for smaller companies or freelancers. Make sure you’re clear about what you want and have written confirmation.

At this stage, it is also wise to discuss access. If you’re not home when your cleaner comes, how will they get in? It’s unwise to hand out keys to your home so a key safe or keypad entry is preferred.

 

Talk money

It won’t surprise you to know that most disputes between cleaners and clients are overpayments. Both parties need to be clear on what is included, what it costs, and how payments will be made.

If you pay by the hour, make sure you cap it. It’s wise to talk about what can be achieved in a given timeframe too. If you pay per job, it’s still worth asking how long the service will take. You’ll want an idea of the hourly rate you’re paying. You’ll also want to know that what you’re paying for can be done to a good standard.

Check the cancellation policy too. This should be provided in writing to avoid confusion if you decide to stop using the service.

Ask whether they offer a satisfaction guarantee

 

What happens if a task is not completed to your satisfaction? Agree on a communication method for such an event before committing. This will ensure you have the necessary email or number if needed. It will also demonstrate that you expect a high quality of service.

Finding a reliable and trustworthy cleaning service is not always easy. In the absence of recommendations from close friends or family, it can feel like you’re just taking a chance.

Scouring local papers and ads in shop windows takes time and doesn’t guarantee quality. For peace of mind when looking for reliable local cleaners, download the Chore Relief app. With access to hundreds of fully vetted cleaners, you can rest assured. Check reviews, communicate through the app, and only receive contact from cleaners who are available to do the work.

After downloading the app, set yourself up with an account and enter the details of the job. We’ll get the message out to local cleaners, you just sit back and relax. When the inquiries come in, follow the guidelines laid out above and you can be confident in your new cleaner.

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source https://chorerelief.com/cleaning-company-checklist/