How To Get Value For Money From A Cleaner

2014-05-08

In Japan, scientists are very close to finalising cleaning robots. These robots will, when completed, herald a revolution in home maintenance and cleanliness. They will clean homes and offices and pretty much anywhere to the highest possible standards in half the time a human being could do the same job in! However, in scientific terms, ‘very close’ can mean many years away. In the mean time, whilst we wait for this technological innovation, we will have to rely on professional cleaners and cleaning companies. However, that’s not to say that we can’t make these cleaning contractors work extra hard for their fee. This guide will show you how to ensure you get optimal value for money from your cleaning services provider.

For a start, it’s imperative you make the right choice of cleaner. We recommend you research companies that offer cleaning services in your area thoroughly before you decide to hire a single one of them. Ask your friends whether they can recommend anyone, and also spend a few hours online researching cleaning agencies in your area. However, don’t be fooled by snazzy websites – you should always seek to speak with a firm directly before making a decision. You don’t know whether they really can deliver on their promises, and whether they have experience in working with your particular cleaning needs. From the word go on the phone, you should be making mental notes – are they friendly, do they sound confident and would you trust them in your home or office? These things really matter! It’s best practice to have a few questions noted down before you begin. Depending on the type of cleaning services you’re in the interest of commissioning, write up different questions – for instance, you expect different things from a housecleaner to a carpet cleaner, so enquire accordingly!

If you hire a professional cleaner (as in the singular), chances are you’ll have to provide cleaning products and accessories – be sure to clarify this point, because neither you nor your cleaning person benefit if time is wasted unnecessarily. Imagine how much of a blunder it’d be if they turned up on their first day of cleaning service and didn’t have the tools to do the job properly, and you didn’t either! Should you hire a cleaning agency, they should provide a comprehensive arsenal of cleaning tools, accessories and products. In fact, if a cleaning company doesn’t offer you these things, then think twice about hiring them! It’s that simple!

Here are some sample questions to assist you:
How long have you been a cleaning contractor? How many years and/or months?
How regularly will my cleaners visit my property?
Will I be assigned my own team, or will the cleaner visiting vary each time?
What happens if a member of staff damages or breaks my property?
The first time your cleaner conducts their cleaning work at your home or office, it’s best practice to be there whilst they work. This is a chance to say hello and get to know them a bit better, but also assess their performance on the go. You can also give them some hands on guidance and advise them as to what you’re expecting, what you want them to focus on, etcetera – and gauge how long the whole process will take them overall! If you would like to establish clear parameters and do’s and don’ts, now’s the time to do it! Investing the time now will pay dividends in future and ensure there are no misunderstandings.