How can you find a good cleaning service? First, when you call, ask how long they've been in business — the longer the better. Services that survive several years in this competitive field have shown themselves to be determined practitioners rather than dabblers. In addition, those who grit through the first three years have learned from their costly mistakes; scratching glass, shrinking carpet, burning holes in delicate surfaces with the wrong chemicals, etc.

 

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Find out, too, if cleaning is their main business or only one of nine sidelines. You should be looking for an experienced, dedicated service not a jack-of-all-trades-and-master-of-none outfit.

Of course, not all fledgling cleaners merit rejection, nor all seasoned pros acceptance. Get several references, character if nothing else, and your peace of mind will grow knowing that the service you're inviting into your home is legit.

Next, ask who will do the cleaning. Sometimes the slick, uniformed, clean-cut business-person that comes to your home to land the job isn't the one who will do the actual work. Avoid any letdowns by making thorough inquiry before giving the go-ahead.

Always get a written work proposal so that the agreement is clear, pay by the job not the hour so both parties know how much they're getting for what, and never pay in advance. Before the company rep comes out to size up the job and give a proposal and bid, decide what you expect and want from the service — because that's the only way you'll get it — and make a note for future reference.

Be sure the company you hire carries insurance or you may be liable for accidents or damages. It's also nice to find one that's bonded, since such coverage protects you against employee theft.

Once you accept a service, consider it on trial basis, then be observant. Is their vehicle clean and well-maintained? Are employees well-groomed and dressed? Do your new cleaning people seem alert, responsive and energetic or dull and slothful?

Once you find a good service, treat 'em right.

Pay promptly, praise when deserved, and smile.

With them doing the dirty work, you'll have reason to be happy.