Finding a good and reputable cleaning service can be a challenge. There are so many different services out there, and the field has a rather low barrier to entry. This means that virtually anyone can start a cleaning business with little to no experience or savoir-faire.
Working with the wrong team could lead to bad results, loss of money, or even getting in trouble with the law. This is why you should take the vetting process very seriously and take your time before you make your pick. Here are a few tips for finding a good cleaning service for your home.
Ask if they’re Licensed
The very first thing you have to do is make sure that the person you’re going to be working with is licenced. This is essential to ensure that you’re working with a legitimate service. A licenced team won’t just vanish into the night the next day or leave in the middle of a job. This will also ensure that you’re compliant with rules and regulations in your jurisdiction.
Another thing you have to ask is if they are bonded and insured. Bonding will be essential if you care about your possessions. Bonding will ensure that you’ll be able to file a claim if one of their employees ends up stealing or destroying some of your property. If they’re not properly bonded, you’re the one who’s going to have to deal within any material damage or theft.
Ask them About their Recruitment Process
This might seem like a minor question, but this is really one of the most important things you need to know when working with any cleaning service. You want to know if they work with regulars or if they have a lot of temporary workers. A service that constantly rotates workers can be dangerous, as you never know where the employees come from, if they have the experience, if they’re covered, or if they’re even legally allowed to work in the country.
Working with a team that is uninsured could lead to serious consequences. For instance, if one of the employees gets injured, you might actually be the one deemed responsible. The same goes if one of the employees ends up injuring someone on your premises. So, make sure that they run a thorough background check on their employees, and that they have a solid and steady team working with them.
Another thing you should ask them is what kind of training they offer to their employees. They should be well versed in safety and security, and how to use products safely. They should also have a good grasp of cleaning techniques, ergonomics, and cleaning science. This is really what will separate professionals from jobbers.
Ask How Many People Will Work on Each Job
Some people might prefer having one single person do the job, and have the same person coming all the time. On the other hand, some services will work as teams. Both have pros and cons. Teams can finish jobs faster, on average, but they’ll cost you. A single person might be all you need for your particular property or cleaning needs. So, make sure that you make this clear with the service from the get-go and see which options they offer.
Check their Standing with the NSW Fair Trading
The NSW Fair Trading is a watchdog organisation that compiles information about different service providers along with complaints they may have had over the years. You want to work with a team with as clean a record as possible. You should also check if they’re members of any professional organisation in your area. These will demonstrate credibility and show that they are ready to abide by a certain code of ethics and standards.
Consider Third Party Sites
You should also consider looking at directories and databases if you’re looking for a good service. Services like LinkU, for instance, have a huge database of screened providers you can look through. They allow you to post a specific job, wait for quotes, and compare between different services. Their service is quick and easy and will allow you to find the perfect team for your needs in no time. They’ll make sure that they have the paperwork necessary as well.
Ask for References
You should also ask if you could talk to some of their previous or current clients as well. They might have a good reputation, but you want to know what the experience is really like and what you can expect. You’ll be able to ask about the exact procedure, how fast they work, and whether they were satisfied with the results.
Finding a good cleaning service can be tough sometimes, but it can be done if you take the time to look and ask the right questions. Pick a team that will be attentive, has reasonable prices, and has a verifiable track record for providing quality service.