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Hiring a House Cleaner? 7 Essential Questions to Ask First

  • Writer: Michelle Allegrezza
    Michelle Allegrezza
  • 21 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Inviting someone into your home is a big decision. Whether you are looking for a weekly refresh or a deep seasonal clean, you want to ensure the person or company you hire is professional, reliable, and a good fit for your lifestyle.

Before you hand over the keys, make sure you ask these five essential questions to find the perfect match for your home.

Women in matching black shirts smile under colorful string lights in a blue room, decorated with various posters, creating a festive mood.

1. Are You Insured and Bonded?

This is the most important question for your own protection. Accidents happen—a vase might break, or a cleaner could slip on a wet floor.

  • Liability Insurance: Protects you if your property is damaged.

  • Bonding: Protects you against theft.

  • Workers' Comp: Ensures that if a cleaner is injured in your home, you aren't held responsible for their medical bills.


2. Do You Provide Your Own Supplies and Equipment?

Some companies bring everything from vacuums to microfiber cloths, while independent cleaners might expect you to provide the supplies.

  • The Benefit: If they provide supplies, it’s one less thing for you to buy.

  • The Preference: If you prefer eco-friendly or specific non-toxic products, ask if they are willing to use your preferred brands instead.


3. How Do You Vet Your Employees?

You are letting these individuals into your private sanctuary. It is perfectly reasonable to ask about their hiring process.

  • Do they perform background checks?

  • Are the cleaners employees or independent contractors?

  • Will the same person be coming to your home every time, or will it be a rotating team? Consistency often leads to a better, more personalized clean.


4. What Exactly is Included in Your Standard Clean?

"Clean" means different things to different people. To avoid disappointment, ask for a specific checklist of what they cover.

  • Standard Clean: Usually includes dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and basic kitchen/bathroom sanitization.

  • Add-ons: Ask if things like cleaning inside the oven, windows, or baseboards are included or if they require an extra fee.


5. What is Your Entry and Pet Policy?

Logistics can make or break a cleaning relationship. You need to know how they will access your home and how they handle furry roommates.

  • Entry: Will you provide a key, a keypad code, or do you need to be home to let them in?

  • Pets: Are they comfortable with dogs or cats? Do they require pets to be crated or in a separate room while they work?


6. What is Your Satisfaction Guarantee?

Even with the best teams, sometimes a spot gets missed. You want to know how the company handles feedback before a problem arises.

  • The Follow-Up: Do they offer a 24-hour re-clean guarantee if you aren't satisfied?

  • Communication: Knowing there is a clear process for resolving issues shows that the company takes pride in their work and values your business.


7. How Do You Handle Cancellations or Rescheduling?

Life in Minnesota can be unpredictable—between snowstorms and sick kids, plans change. It’s important to understand their flexibility.

  • The Policy: Is there a fee for cancelling within 24 hours?

  • The Reliability: Conversely, ask what happens if they need to reschedule. A professional service should have a backup plan to ensure your home still gets the attention it needs.

The Bottom Line

The right cleaner won’t mind answering these questions; in fact, they’ll appreciate your thoroughness! Clear communication from day one ensures that you get the Sparkling Home you deserve without any of the stress.

Ready to see the difference a professional clean can make?


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