Hiring a house cleaner is a significant decision that affects your home, family, and peace of mind. With so many cleaning services available in the GTA, knowing what to look for can help you make the right choice and avoid costly mistakes.
Essential Questions to Ask
1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?
This is the most crucial question. A legitimate cleaning service should have:
- General liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage)
- Bonding to protect against theft
- Workers' compensation insurance
- Valid business license
Pro Tip: Ask to see certificates and verify they're current. Don't take their word for it.
2. What's Included in Your Service?
Get a detailed list of what's included in regular cleaning vs. deep cleaning:
Regular Cleaning Should Include:
- Dusting all surfaces
- Vacuuming/mopping floors
- Bathroom cleaning & sanitizing
- Kitchen cleaning
- Making beds
- Trash removal
Deep Cleaning Additions:
- Inside oven & refrigerator
- Baseboards & window sills
- Light fixtures
- Cabinet fronts
- Detailed bathroom scrubbing
3. What Are Your Rates and Payment Terms?
Understand the pricing structure completely:
- Hourly vs. flat rate pricing
- Minimum service time requirements
- Extra charges for additional services
- Payment methods accepted
- Cancellation policy and fees
4. Do You Bring Your Own Supplies and Equipment?
Professional services should provide:
- All cleaning products and chemicals
- Vacuum cleaners and mops
- Microfiber cloths and cleaning tools
- Eco-friendly product options
Red Flags to Watch For
⚠️ Warning Signs of Unprofessional Services
- Door-to-door solicitation
- Extremely low prices (too good to be true)
- Cash-only payment requirements
- No written estimates or contracts
- Pressure for immediate commitment
- Can't provide insurance documentation
- No local references available
- Poor communication or unprofessionalism
- No background checks on employees
- Vague service descriptions
Employee Screening and Security
What to Ask About Employee Screening:
- Background checks: Criminal history verification
- Reference checks: Previous employer verification
- Training programs: Proper cleaning techniques and protocols
- Employee identification: Uniforms and ID badges
- Supervision: How work quality is monitored
Checking References and Reviews
Online Reviews
- Google Business reviews
- Better Business Bureau rating
- Facebook recommendations
- HomeStars or similar platforms
- Look for patterns in complaints
Direct References
- Ask for 3-5 local references
- Contact references directly
- Ask about reliability and quality
- Inquire about any issues
- Verify service duration
Contract and Service Agreement
Your Contract Should Include:
- Detailed service description
- Frequency and schedule
- Clear pricing structure
- Cancellation policy
- Quality guarantee
- Damage policy and procedures
- Key handling and security
- Special instructions accommodation
- Communication procedures
- Emergency contact information
Start with a Trial Period
Smart Trial Strategy:
- Book a one-time deep cleaning first
- Evaluate their work quality and professionalism
- Assess punctuality and communication
- Test their attention to detail and problem-solving
- Only commit to regular service if satisfied
Remember: A reputable company will welcome the opportunity to prove their worth through a trial cleaning.
Final Decision Checklist
Before Making Your Decision:
Making the Right Choice
Taking the time to properly vet your house cleaning service is an investment in your home's security, cleanliness, and your peace of mind. Don't rush the decision – a thorough evaluation process will help you find a trustworthy, professional service that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
Remember: the cheapest option isn't always the best value. Focus on finding a service that offers fair pricing, comprehensive insurance, professional training, and a commitment to quality that aligns with your standards.