Handing someone the keys to your home or office is a big decision. Whether you are searching for a house cleaner in Baltimore, a commercial cleaning crew for your office or a move-out clean in the Washington area, these ten questions will quickly separate dependable companies from the rest.
1. Are you licensed and insured?
Insurance protects you if something is damaged or someone is injured on the job. Ask who is covered and request proof if it is a high-value home or business.
2. Are your cleaners background-checked?
You are letting people into your space. Ask whether every team member is screened and whether they are employees or subcontractors.
3. What exactly is included?
Ask for a written checklist. Terms like "deep clean" vary widely. A clear scope prevents surprises and arguments later, and is also how you compare quotes fairly. See deep cleaning vs. regular cleaning.
4. How do you price?
Companies price by the hour, by the room or by the job. None is automatically better; what matters is that you understand what you are paying for and what could change the price, such as extra-dirty areas or add-ons. Be cautious of quotes that are far below everyone else's.
5. Do you bring your own supplies and equipment?
Most do, but confirm. Ask about eco-friendly products if you have kids, pets, allergies or sensitivities, and mention them up front.
6. What is your guarantee?
A confident company will fix a missed spot or offer a satisfaction guarantee. Ask how to report a problem and how fast they respond.
7. Can I see reviews and references?
Look at verified reviews on more than one platform. Platforms like Thumbtack only allow reviews from customers who hired through the platform, which makes them more reliable. Read the details: do reviewers mention punctuality, communication and going the extra mile?
8. How do you communicate and schedule?
Fast, clear communication before the job is a strong sign of how things will go. Ask about arrival windows, how they handle reschedules and whether you will get the same team each visit.
9. Do you do an assessment before quoting?
For anything beyond a standard apartment clean, such as heavy buildup, cleanouts or commercial spaces, a quick assessment in person, by phone or by video leads to an accurate, fair quote.
10. Do you have experience with my kind of job?
Recurring home cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, apartment cleanouts, carpet cleaning and commercial cleaning all call for different skills and equipment. Ask for examples similar to yours.
Red flags
- No insurance or vague answers about it
- Pressure to pay in full up front or only in cash
- No written scope or estimate
- Prices that seem too good to be true
- Slow or unclear communication
The bottom line
Choose the company that answers clearly, puts the scope in writing and has a track record you can verify. A little diligence up front means you get a cleaner space and a service you can rely on for years.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get multiple quotes?
Two or three is reasonable. Compare scope, not just price, so you are weighing the same work.
Do I need to be home during the cleaning?
Not necessarily. Many customers give access by lockbox or key, but it is a good idea to meet the team on the first visit.
Ready for a spotless space?
Tell us about your space and we will get back to you the same day with a free quote.
