You're about to let strangers into your home with keys and chemicals. That's not a casual decision. Most people screw this up by focusing on price first and finding out later their 'cleaner' has no insurance, no contract, and no backup plan. Here's what actually matters.
Licensing & Insurance Questions
Ask for proof of general liability insurance before you let anyone touch a mop. If they damage your floor or break a window, you want their policy to pay, not your wallet. Workers' compensation is just as important — without it, you could be on the hook if someone gets hurt on your property. A legitimate company will hand over these documents without hesitation. If they dodge or say 'we're bonded' without explaining, walk away. Bonding covers theft, not damage or injury.
Experience & References Questions
Don't ask 'how long have you been in business?' — that's a vanity metric. Ask about specific situations: have they cleaned a house with pets, a rental turnover, or someone with allergies? That tells you if they adapt. Request two recent references from clients with similar homes to yours. Call them. Ask one thing: 'Would you hire them again for the same price?' A yes means they're reliable. A 'maybe' means problems they won't say out loud.
Pricing & Timeline Questions
Get a written quote based on a walkthrough, not a phone estimate. Flat rate beats hourly every time — hourly gives them no incentive to be efficient. Ask how long the job will take and what happens if they run over. If they say 'it depends' without giving a range, they're managing your expectations poorly upfront. Also ask about extra charges: what costs more? Ovens, fridges, inside cabinets, windows. Know that before they start.
Contract Questions
Read the cancellation policy before you sign. Can you cancel with 24 hours notice or do they lock you into a monthly minimum? Look for a clause about damage: does the contract require them to fix it or just 'notify you'? That's a trap. Also check how they handle keys — do they keep them on file, use a lockbox, or return them after each visit? A good contract protects both sides. If they rush you to sign without explaining, that's a red flag.
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