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THE HOMEPROS FIELD GUIDE · house cleaning

How to hire a cleaning service.

Choose a cleaning service by its written checklist, exclusions, access process, and approach to resolving missed work.

HomePros editorialUpdated September 23, 2026Project planning guide

BEFORE YOU REACH OUT

Get these three things ready.

  • Identify rooms and priority tasks
  • Explain the home’s current condition
  • List delicate finishes and access needs
01

Ask for a room-by-room checklist

Separate routine surfaces from appliance interiors, cabinets, buildup removal, and other additional tasks. Two services can use the same package name while including different work.

02

Discuss the first visit

Tell the company how long it has been since a thorough clean and mention heavy buildup or rooms that need extra attention. Ask whether the first visit differs from ongoing maintenance.

03

Agree on access and supplies

Confirm who supplies equipment and products, how pets should be managed, and how entry details are shared securely. Describe surfaces with manufacturer-specific care requirements.

04

Know the follow-up process

Ask how to report missed items, what documentation is useful, and how the company evaluates a return visit. Keep the accepted checklist rather than relying on broad marketing descriptions.

Take these questions into the conversation.

What exactly are we agreeing to?
Ask for the included tasks, exclusions, materials, and completion expectations in writing.
What would change the scope?
Ask how an unexpected condition is documented and how you approve additional work.
Who handles the follow-up?
Confirm the contact process for questions, missed tasks, or a problem after the visit.

READY FOR THE NEXT STEP?

Find the business that fits the job.

Use your brief to discuss scope and confirm service-area coverage directly.

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