There are some great companies in the cleaning business. The national franchises get first pick of the best cleaners. Big companies pay well, and have the advertising capability to keep new clients coming in. Merry Maids, and Maid Brigade have really uplifted the cleaning industry.
In your area there are dozens of smaller companies that can give you great service. They have a variety of structures for the way the handle the cleaning. Some, like Maid in the Northwest, send out independent contractors, and others, Like April Lane’s Cleaning have employees. There is no way to say which way is right.
Then you have the smaller individuals who work by themselves or in teams. Some are excellent for a very reasonable price. Cleaning is really a talent that some people have, and we are all looking for. You have to have the ability in order to be trained.
The interview is the most important part. These are people who will be intimately acquainted with you, and your family. Your cleaner knows everything, so you should be comfortable with each other. Ask questions beyond if the company is insured. Try to meet the cleaners, and the most important question is, if the same cleaners will be working in your home.
Some people rely on references, or on line reviews to get your business. We have found that it’s best to trust your instincts, but a good set of local references can go a long way.
Also pay attention to what the cleaners are asking you. See what the policy is for rescheduling, or if something gets lost, or broken. Many companies provide a check list outlining each parties responsibilities, and what will be done on each visit.
It’s good to check back with the company after a few cleanings to see if everything is still on good terms. The company you hire may be contacting you see what needs to be improved, but it is a two way street.
Since 1968, high school, I have worked on properties for rent and sale. My first company was formed in 1972 with a partner. Over the years the business grew. Last year in 2008 my main company A Spring Cleaning won an award for Cleaning Service by the U.S. Local Business Association.
A Spring Cleaning was my own creation. In the 1980s and 1990s we did many things. Dry rot repair, yard work, paint, pressure washing, hauling, and design. In 2000 we changed to a regularly scheduled house cleaning company with the trade name Seattle House Cleaning.
The transition was gradual. A Spring Cleaning got a boost in 2005 with a mention on a national TV show, then a few interviews in the local media, and business was very good. I was also a licensed Real Estate agent with some project properties.
In 2005 I became concerned about the housing market and concentrated on finishing my projects full time. We sold off properties in 2006 then concentrated on the Seattle House Cleaning business. Three years later the cleaning business is good.
Blogging is a part of my daily routine. Most of the time my focus has been on Real Estate and economics. To go along with that we encourage people to be in business. Our cleaning business has branched off into other cleaning businesses and we consult with other business owners.
This site is an extension of what we already do. By sharing what we have learned about the cleaning business we hope you will see it's more than just a bucket and rags that get you the fresh feeling of a clean home. These are just some tricks of the trade and some of the pit falls we experience.
Hire the owner operated company when possible. Better service, better prices and better results.