The Right Questions to Ask

A Housecleaner

Before you give someone access to your home, get to know the potential employee’s past. And don’t make any final hires until you have met your cleaner, because a gut reaction goes a long way.

What to Ask

• Do you bring your own equipment and cleaning supplies, or will I provide them?
• Will you ever bring someone to clean with you?
• What if you’re sick? Will you send someone else, or will I have to wait until your next scheduled visit?
• Do you have a green card or a work visa? (Ask this if you’re not hiring from an agency.)
• Are you bonded and insured with liability coverage? (If not, check with your insurance company to see what your coverage is.)
• How do you like to be contacted? On the phone? In a note?
• Could I talk to other people you’ve cleaned for?
• How often do you plan to clean things like the refrigerator? Drapes? Windows? Baseboards?