Bringing in a domestic cleaner can make maintaining your home so much easier. But if you don’t take the right precautions when hiring, you could end up with mediocre results, an unreliable service, or worse, theft of some possessions or perhaps damage to your home.
Avoid these common mistakes when hiring a domestic cleaner for your home:
1. Not Checking References
Before hiring any cleaner, always request and check their references. Call previous clients and ask if they were satisfied with the company’s house cleaning services. Good references indicate the cleaner is trustworthy and hardworking, so don’t skip this important screening step.
2. Not Confirming Their Domestic Cleaner Insurance
Reputable cleaners will have a public liability insurance policy that protects you in the event of theft or if a cleaner is injured on the job. Check that they have proof of up-to-date insurance while assessing a company, and never hire uninsured cleaners.
3. Not Getting a Written Quote
Get quotes from multiple service providers before deciding on one. Quotes should be written and detailed, clearly listing rates for all services. Make sure you understand exactly what tasks are covered for the quoted price, especially if they want you to sign a contract.
4. Not Checking Domestic Cleaner Licenses
Domestic cleaners don’t require a license to operate in England and Wales, but they will require equipment qualifications for specialist cleaning jobs. Research the licensing requirements in your local area, and only hire properly licensed cleaners. This helps avoid fly-by-night service providers and companies.
5. Not Setting a Regular Schedule
Sporadic or infrequent cleaning leads to poorer results. Set up a regular cleaning schedule, whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Consistency leads to better cleaning since they’ll be familiar with your home’s needs.
6. Not Establishing Expectations
Discuss cleaning tasks, special requirements, and which supplies will be used. Set clear expectations upfront about what will be cleaned and how. Being on the same page prevents disappointment over assumed duties that weren’t carried out.
7. Not Doing a Walkthrough
Do a walkthrough of your home with the cleaner before the first cleaning to point out areas of concern and discuss proper handling of valuables. Also, do a walkthrough after cleanings to check their work.
8. Not Using a Domestic Cleaner Service Agreement
Have a written service agreement or contract in place before cleaning starts. This should detail scheduled cleanings, rates, tasks covered, payment terms, and policies for both parties. Everything is clear when it’s in writing.
9. Not Being Ready for Cleaners’ Arrival
Pick up toys, clear clutter, make beds, and do dishes before they arrive. Don’t make them waste precious cleaning time tidying up, as you’re paying for it! Be ready so they can dive right into deep cleaning tasks.
10. Not Providing Supplies and Equipment
Provide all the cleaning supplies, tools, and equipment your cleaners will need. Check in periodically to replenish supplies like cleaning solutions, brushes, cloths, and vacuum bags. A fully stocked arsenal allows them to clean most effectively.
Avoiding these mistakes allows you to hire cleaners who provide professional, reliable domestic cleaning services. Do your due diligence during the hiring process, set clear ground rules upfront, and establish an ongoing, quality relationship with your new cleaner.
Be smart, be careful, and hire well!
