How to Hire a Cleaning Company: 9 Questions to Ask

Insurance and coverage

Ask for a certificate of insurance showing general liability, and for commercial work, workers' compensation. A bonded company also protects you against theft. Get it in writing, not verbally.

Who actually shows up

Ask whether cleaners are employees or subcontractors, whether they are background-checked, and whether you get the same team each visit. Consistency is what makes recurring service work.

Scope, pricing and guarantees

Get specifics before the first visit.

• A written checklist of what is and is not included
• Whether pricing is hourly or flat, and what triggers extra charges
• Who supplies products and equipment
• Cancellation and rescheduling policy
• Whether there is a re-clean guarantee, and how long you have to report an issue

Communication

How do you reach them on the day of service? A real company answers the phone, confirms appointments and tells you when the crew is on the way. If you can text them, ask how consent and opt-out work — a professional operation will have a written messaging policy.