Four simple ways to find a reputable local cleaner

Finding a reputable local cleaner can be a big task.  Of course you can open the yellow pages; but, do you really want to take a shot in the dark when you’re looking for someone to work in your home?  I didn’t think so.  If you have a little bit of time to invest, you can find a cleaner that has stellar references and the necessary experience to meet your domestic needs.

Using a local cleaner is always preferred over a company headquartered far away.  When you use a local company, they are right in your neighborhood and you have easy access to them if need be.  A local company will also have more references from your neighborhood.  This can be especially important if you live in a historic area where your cleaning needs areas distinct.

When you need to find a local cleaner, the following four options will provide you with the most viable candidates.

1. Ask friends and family.
2. Ask local business owners.
3. Use an online freelance network.
4. Place a classifieds ad.

Ask Friends and Family

The best way to find a local cleaner is to ask your friends and family.  They know you best.  They will be able to assist you with determining if a candidate in question is going to be a good fit with your personality, attitude, and expectations.  None of the other options will provide such a personal perspective.  However, make sure that the friend or family member offering the referral has actually been satisfied with the cleaning service of the referred cleaner.  Knowing a cleaner is much different than having had her work in your home.  If you don’t have any trusted friends or family offering experienced referrals, try a couple of the other options.

Ask Local Business Owners

Many business owners use local cleaners to keep their shops and office space clean and inviting.  They will be able to give you specifics about the cleaner’s performance and professional conduct.  Business owners are usually very aware of their reputation in their community.  When asked for a referral, a local business owner will normally only refer a top-notch cleaner.  The place to start is with local businesses that you already frequent.

Use an Online Freelance Network

Online freelance networks are the next-generation of job boards.  Online freelance networks connect local cleaners with property owners looking to have work done.  By posting a job on one of these networks, you’ll receive the contact information and maybe even an actual bid on your proposed work from cleaners in your area.  Though you don’t get an actual referral from these networks, most allow for past users to leave comments and ratings on the services of the cleaner.  Besides feedback from past users, online freelance networks also give you access to a plethora of information about the cleaner without you having to pick up the phone or set up a meeting.  From the comfort of your home you can browse local cleaners interested in working for you.

Place a Classifieds Ad

If you have a bit of time before you need your cleaner to get started, consider running a classifieds ad.  Classifieds ads are inexpensive and will more than likely generate a sufficient number of candidates from which to choose.  If you use this option make sure to ask detailed questions once you contact the cleaner.  You may have to splurge for a background check to ensure that the selected cleaner doesn’t have a questionable history.

Once you have made a decision to hire a Professional cleaner, it shouldn’t take long to find one if you use one of these simple options.

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Once you’ve determined that you need to hire a cleaner, it is best to set up an interview with the candidate.  The domestic help industry is known for scams.  Take the time to discuss your expectations and requirements with the candidate.  Also, ask the following ten questions to get a good idea of whether or not you’ve found a good fit for your job.

1. Are you or your company bonded and insured?

Most cleaning companies will advertise this fact.  It is quite attractive to property owners and takes away a great deal of the risk involved with bringing someone into your home or office.  Most independent cleaners won’t have these credentials.

2.   Are you a member of any trade organizations?

There are quite a few trade organizations specifically for the cleaning industry.  These organizations require that members follow certain guidelines as well as maintain ethical business standards.  While there is no trade organization police, individuals and companies that are members usually follow the guidelines of their organization.

3.   Do you have proof of trade organization membership?

Make sure to ask for proof of membership.  Some companies will not be truthful when asked about membership in trade organizations.  Ask to see a certificate or badge and make sure it is up-to-date.

4. What training have you undergone?  What training does your company provide?

Anyone can claim to be a professional cleaner.  The best cleaners are going to have undergone training.  It cannot be assumed that everyone knows how to sufficiently clean a bathroom or kitchen.  Companies that are concerned about their reputation will definitely offer training to their employees.  Individuals can sometimes receive ongoing training as members of trade organizations.  Ask what areas she considers herself an expert and which she has just attained basic proficiency

5.  Do you have references that I can contact?

This is especially important.  Don’t take her word for it.  Ask for the name and number of any reference and actually call.  If she doesn’t have references on hand, ask her to call you the next business day with the contact information

6.  What is your physical address?

Much independent cleaning work from home.  This is acceptable; however, you should still get the address of anyone working in your home.  Just like any company, cleaning companies that don t provides an address present a red flag.  Consider how you will reach them if their phones are disconnected

7.  How long have you been in business?

This is a simple question; however it will help you determine if the company has sufficient experience.

8.  Has your company run a background check on you?  Can I have a copy?

Most reputable cleaning companies will run background checks on all of their cleaners and should have no problem providing you with one.  Independent cleaners almost never have background checks.  If you’d like to proceed with an independent cleaner running your own background check is advisable.

9.  Will I be able to customize my cleaning or are there set schedules?

This question will help you determine whether or not there is any flexibility in the work that you have done on your scheduled visits.  Some cleaners will allow for you to customize what work you’d like done at every visit.  Others will follow a checklist that you selected at the start of your services.

10.   Will you wash windows, iron, fold laundry, etc.

Are there specific tasks that you would like completed, but aren’t mentioned in the company’s literature.  Ask about them.  Independent cleaners are usually more flexible.  Companies focused on customer service will often offer extra services that can be added to your job for free or a nominal fee.

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