Start by identifying the work you need: routine house cleaning, a one-off clean or specialist work such as windows or carpets. Ask which tasks, equipment and access arrangements are included in the quote. Read the UK consumer rights guidance for services.
There are so many choices out there, so this article aims for one purpose – to ease your searching and ensure that you will pick the right cleaning service for your property.
If a company claims membership, certification or specialist training, check what it covers and whether it is current. Membership alone does not guarantee the outcome of your job.
Access qualifications may be relevant to particular window-cleaning or work-at-height tasks. They should not be treated as a standard credential required for every domestic cleaner.
Ask how the company plans to carry out your particular work safely and check any claimed credentials with the issuing organisation.
How to Choose the Right Cleaning Service
Since it’s the 21st century, you will look for a cleaning company online. Nevertheless, you know the Internet is full of fraudulent websites and scams. Here is what you have to look for when deciding on a cleaning company online:
- Check the company’s identity, contact details and description of the service. A one-page website is not proof of a scam.
- Look for clear inclusions, exclusions and a written quote rather than judging reliability by bold text or social-media buttons.
- Read independent reviews critically and check relevant insurance and any claimed qualifications. Reviews alone do not prove that every future job will meet your expectations.
- Ask about cancellations, complaints and any guarantee, including its actual conditions. A guarantee is not compulsory evidence of a legitimate business.
Questions to Ask a Cleaning Company Professional
When you get in touch with the call centre agents of your chosen cleaning company, it’s important to ask a few particular questions which may change your mind, or convince you that this is the company for you.
Do you offer insurance?
One of the most important questions, if not THE most important one. Insured cleaning workers will give you a sense of security.
Do you charge by the hour, or for a finished service?
This is how your end price will be calculated, which is why it won’t hurt to make the same calculations by yourself. Different cleaning services will have a different charge rates.
What does each service include?
It’s important to know what you’re getting for your money. Sometimes, there are additional tasks the cleaners do for you free of charge. Sometimes, a task you might find logical to be included is not a part of the package. Get informed.
What are the conditions for the guarantee you give on the website?
Ask whether a guarantee is offered, what it covers, how to report a concern and what deadline applies to your booking. Do not assume every company offers a 72-hour window or promises perfect results.
Do you do refunds?
Ask how complaints and refunds are handled and read the terms before booking. Do not assume that every company applies the same refund rule or that its policy overrides your legal rights.
Can you work with a checklist I’ve made myself?
Checklists are very common, most companies work with company approved lists of tasks. But, in most cases there isn’t a company that wouldn’t agree to work by your own checklist. Workers who do regular cleaning would be happy to work on your conditions.
However, in most cases the “satisfaction guarantee” clause might not be valid.
Can you work without me in the house?
Most companies would agree to do their job, while you’re not home. You can arrange for a way of access, by giving a key to a neighbour, however you should be 100% certain that this is a reliable cleaning company. Not recommended to do this if you’re using the company for the first time.
Star Domestic Cleaners team advise everyone to get more educated on online scams and frauds. The more people know how to protect themselves, the better for both them and the online businesses.
