5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Domestic Cleaner

To help you make an informed decision, we've outlined five essential questions to ask before hiring a domestic cleaner. These questions will guide you through the process, ensuring you get the best service possible for your home and lifestyle.

1. What Are Your Cleaning Service Offerings?

One of the first and most important questions to ask any cleaning service is about the specific services they offer. Not all cleaning services are created equal, and it’s vital to understand what you’re paying for before you sign up. Here are some details to cover:

General Cleaning vs. Specialised Tasks

Many cleaning companies offer standard services, such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and cleaning bathrooms and kitchens. However, you may need additional services, like:

• Deep cleaning (e.g., cleaning behind appliances, scrubbing grout)
• Laundry and ironing
• Window washing
• Organisation of clutter
• Appliance cleaning (e.g., ovens, fridges)
  

Make sure to ask whether these services are included in their general cleaning package or if they come at an additional cost.

Customisable Packages

Flexibility is key when hiring a cleaner. Ask if the company offers customisable packages where you can select specific areas of the house to focus on. For example, some homeowners prefer their cleaner to concentrate on the kitchen and bathrooms, while others want more detailed attention paid to bedrooms or living areas.

By knowing exactly what services will be performed, you can avoid misunderstandings or disappointments when it comes to the level of cleanliness you expect. At We Clean Homes, for instance, we tailor our cleaning plans to suit your needs—whether it’s a focused clean or a quick refresh before the weekend.

2. What Are Your Pricing and Payment Terms?

When considering a domestic cleaning service, pricing and payment terms are crucial factors to clarify upfront. Cleaning services can vary widely in cost, so it's essential to ensure that the rates align with your budget and expectations.

Hourly vs. Flat Rate

Some cleaners charge by the hour, while others may offer a flat fee for specific services or sessions. Each pricing structure has its pros and cons:

• Hourly rates: If you pay by the hour, you may feel concerned about how efficiently the cleaner works. It’s important to clarify whether there’s a cap on the hours or a minimum requirement to avoid unexpected costs.
• Flat rates: A flat rate for a weekly or fortnightly cleaning service can give you more predictability with your budget. However, it’s important to ensure that this rate covers everything you need, or you may find yourself paying extra for additional services.

Hidden Costs and Special Requests

Always ask if there are any additional fees or hidden charges. For example, some companies may charge extra for specialised cleaning supplies or for handling delicate items. You’ll also want to know if extra services, like deep cleaning or appliance scrubbing, will increase the cost.

Payment Methods

Finally, confirm the payment methods that the company accepts. Do they prefer cash, bank transfer, or card payments? It’s also worth asking if they require a deposit or payment upfront for their services, as well as the frequency of billing—whether it’s after each session or monthly.

Having a clear understanding of these financial aspects will help you avoid surprises and ensure that your cleaning service is as stress-free as possible.

3. Are Your Cleaners Vetted and Insured?

Letting someone into your home is a big step, so you’ll want to feel confident that your domestic cleaner is trustworthy and qualified. When considering a cleaning service, don’t shy away from asking about how they screen their cleaners and what insurance coverage they provide.

Background Checks and Vetting

Ask if the cleaning service conducts thorough checks on their staff. This is especially important if the cleaner will have access to your home when you’re not there. Reliable cleaning companies will vet their cleaners to ensure they are trustworthy and professional.

At We Clean Homes, all of our cleaners undergo thorough ID checks using government-issued identification, and they bring extensive experience to ensure the highest standards of professionalism and discretion. This gives you peace of mind, knowing you can trust them to work in your home with complete confidence.

Insurance and Liability

Accidents happen, even to the most careful cleaners. Therefore, it’s important to ask if the company is insured. Comprehensive insurance covers any potential damages to your home, as well as any accidents that may occur while the cleaner is working.

If a cleaner breaks an expensive item or is injured on the job, you’ll want to be sure you aren’t held liable for any costs. Confirm that the cleaning service has liability insurance, and ask what procedures they have in place in the event of an accident.

4. How Flexible Is Your Scheduling?

Every homeowner’s schedule is different, and life can be unpredictable. That’s why it’s essential to ask about the flexibility of the cleaning company’s scheduling options.

Recurring Services

When hiring a domestic cleaner, especially for regular services like weekly or fortnightly cleanings, it’s important to ask if they offer recurring time slots. Knowing that your cleaner will come at the same time every week or two can give you peace of mind and help you plan around the visits.

Rescheduling and Cancellations

Sometimes, you may need to reschedule due to travel, holidays, or other commitments. Make sure to ask how flexible the company is with rescheduling. Is there a cancellation policy? Will you be charged for last-minute changes? Understanding the terms of flexibility ahead of time will prevent frustration down the road.

Holiday and Emergency Cleaning

If you expect to need additional services during holidays or for special events, ask whether the cleaner can accommodate these requests. It’s also worth inquiring if the company offers emergency cleanings in case of unexpected situations, like last-minute guests or a big spill.

At We Clean Homes, we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to your needs, offering flexibility in scheduling while ensuring consistency for our recurring customers.

5. Do You Provide Your Own Cleaning Supplies or Should I?

When hiring a cleaning service, one important factor to consider is whether you'll need to provide your own cleaning supplies or if the company will bring theirs. At We Clean Homes, we ask our clients to provide their own cleaning products and equipment—and for good reason.

Providing Your Own Cleaning Products

Many homeowners prefer using their own cleaning products because they know the brands, fragrances, and ingredients they trust. You may have specific products you like for different surfaces, or perhaps you prefer eco-friendly or hypoallergenic options that are safe for your family and pets. By providing your own cleaning supplies, you can be confident that the products being used in your home align with your preferences and sensitivities.

Additionally, you’re familiar with the smells of your favourite cleaning products, so there won’t be any unpleasant surprises. Whether it’s a fresh citrus scent in the kitchen or a gentle lavender spray in the bedroom, you’ll have control over the atmosphere in your home.

Company-Supplied Products: Added Costs

While some cleaning services bring their own products and equipment, this often comes with an added cost. Many companies factor the expense of high-quality cleaning supplies into their rates, which can result in higher overall fees for the homeowner. If you’re particular about what’s used in your home, you might still end up supplying your own products, on top of paying a premium for their service.

By using your own products, not only do you ensure the right products are used, but you can also avoid these extra charges. This makes the cleaning service more affordable and tailored to your specific needs.

At We Clean Homes, we believe in providing exceptional service without unnecessary costs. We don’t bring any products or equipment, which allows us to keep our rates more competitive and lets you take control of what’s used in your home. This approach ensures that your home is cleaned with the products you trust and love, at no extra cost to you.

Conclusion

Hiring a domestic cleaner can greatly improve your quality of life, giving you more time to focus on what truly matters. However, it's essential to ask the right questions before making a decision. From understanding the services offered to ensuring flexibility and transparency in pricing, these five key questions will help you find a cleaner who meets your expectations.

One important aspect to consider is whether to provide your own cleaning products or rely on the company's supplies. At We Clean Homes, we encourage homeowners to provide their own products and equipment, giving you full control over the products used in your home. This not only ensures you're comfortable with the scents and ingredients but also helps you avoid unnecessary costs that come with company-supplied products. By doing so, we can offer more competitive rates while delivering a personalised cleaning experience tailored to your preferences.

Ready to enjoy a spotless home without the stress? Contact We Clean Homes today to schedule your weekly or fortnightly cleaning service, and experience the difference of a service that truly works for you!