In last months Live Ribble Valley we suggested hiring a cleaning company to help you with a spring clean, however if your appetite for doing the cleaning yourself, despite our "speed cleaning" techniques, has waned a little (and who would blame you!) we at HomeMaid thought it would be a good idea to give you the 'inside track', on 'what everyone should know but what some cleaning service providers, want to keep hidden'
The guide to"Avoiding Rogue Cleaners" covered in three parts, will give you the edge to get the best value from your domestic cleaning service provider and avoid those "rogues"
There are four key areas to think about regardless of where you source a cleaning service,
People - Protection - Products - Proof
- People
You need to check that the cleaner/cleaning company has passed vetting procedures which include a CRB check and two employment references.
- Protection
Have they adequate insurance or any insurance cover at all? Many have Liability insurance but rarely "fidelity bonding", due to costs. Good cleaning companies offer guaranteed services because they are confident of the quality they deliver, just ask.
- Products
If they bring their own products are they ones you approve of? Do they need to be safe for your children or pets? Would you prefer environmentally friendly products? Just ask!
- Proof
Do they have testimonials and references, are they members of professional/business organisations that give them credibility?
Now you have the basic outline of how to identify a reputable, responsible domestic cleaning service.
Individuals are rarely insured, many don't even pay taxes, which could leave you without insurance protection and exposed to prosecution from HM Revenue & Customs, beware!
Rates of £10 an hour if the cleaner doesn't have insurance AND fidelity bonding, is impractical as you will have to increase the cost on your home insurance, if you can! If you have to supply the products, work out how much that might cost you on top of their "cheap rates".
It takes a little effort, however, find a good cleaner or cleaning company and it will make your life so much better in ways you haven't even thought of yet! Just think about releasing more time at the weekends for you, your family, hobbies, or whatever it is that you want to do.
Orginal Article Published in the Live Ribble Valley Magazine
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