How to Choose a Cleaning Service

Verify Insurance & Bonding

This is non-negotiable. A legitimate cleaning service carries general liability insurance (covering damage to your property) and is bonded (protecting you against theft). Ask to see their Certificate of Insurance and verify the policy is current.

Ask them: "Can you send me a copy of your current liability insurance certificate?" A good service will provide this immediately.

Check Background Checks Policy

Professional cleaning companies run criminal background checks on every employee. Ask specifically: who conducts the checks, how recent they are, and whether it covers all staff or just the owner.

Ask them: "Do you run background checks on all cleaners who enter homes, and how recently were they completed?"

Read Recent Reviews on Multiple Platforms

Don't rely on the company's own website. Check Google Reviews, Yelp, and Nextdoor for authentic feedback. Look for patterns: consistent praise or repeated complaints about the same issues. Aim for services with 4.5+ stars and 50+ reviews.

Look for reviews that mention specific cleaners by name — this indicates a consistent team rather than rotating strangers.

Ask About Cleaning Products Used

If you have allergies, pets, or young children, the products used matter. Ask if they use eco-friendly or non-toxic products. Some services allow you to supply your own products. Verify they won't mix bleach and ammonia (dangerous).

Ask them: "What cleaning products do you use, and do you offer green/non-toxic alternatives? Are your products safe for pets and children?"

Confirm What's Included in the Price

Get a clear written scope of work before signing anything. Many "basic" plans exclude ovens, inside fridges, laundry, and dishes. Know the difference between their standard, deep, and move-in/out cleans.

Request an itemized checklist of exactly what is and isn't included. Good services have this readily available.

Understand Their Satisfaction Guarantee

Reputable services offer a re-clean guarantee — if you're not happy, they return within 24–48 hours to fix the issue at no extra charge. Understand what triggers this and how complaints are handled.

Ask them: "What's your satisfaction policy if I'm not happy with the clean? How quickly will you return?"

Clarify Pricing Structure & Cancellation Terms

Understand if pricing is flat-rate or hourly, what happens if they run long, and cancellation fees. Some services lock you into contracts — understand the exit terms before you sign.

Flat-rate pricing is more predictable. Hourly pricing can run over budget. Get the quote in writing.

Red Flags to Avoid

Avoid These Warning Signs

🚩 No business license or insurance when asked
🚩 Prices dramatically below market rate
🚩 No online presence or very few reviews
🚩 Asks for cash payment only, no receipts
🚩 Can't provide references from previous clients
🚩 Refuses to provide a written service agreement
🚩 Evasive about who specifically will clean your home

Signs of a Trustworthy Service

✓ Proactively shares insurance info
✓ Transparent about background checks
✓ Clear written estimates before the visit
✓ Same cleaner assigned each visit
✓ Accepts credit cards and provides receipts
✓ Active on Google with 50+ reviews
✓ Responds quickly and professionally

Questions to Ask Before You Book

Are you licensed, bonded, and insured? Can you send me the certificate?
Do you run background checks on all your cleaners?
Will I have the same cleaner each time?
What exactly is included in a standard clean vs a deep clean?
What cleaning products do you use? Do you offer eco-friendly options?
What is your satisfaction guarantee and re-clean policy?
Is your pricing flat-rate or hourly? Are there any add-on fees?
What is your cancellation policy?