8 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Cleaner
A cleaner enters your home regularly, often with their own keys. Trust, reliability, and clear expectations matter as much as the cleaning itself.
Our in-house team of qualified, insured cleaners covers all of NW London.
Get a Quote1.Are you insured for accidental damage?
Cleaners work with delicate items — a broken vase or scratched surface can be expensive. Confirm they carry insurance and understand what it covers before they start.
Yes — I carry public liability insurance for accidental damage. Here is my certificate. Claims are handled through [insurer].
No insurance, or claiming they have never broken anything so do not need it.
2.Do you bring your own equipment and cleaning products?
Some cleaners bring everything; others expect you to supply products and a vacuum. Know upfront to avoid confusion and ensure they have the right tools for the job.
I bring my own professional vacuum, mops, and all cleaning products. I can use your preferred products instead if you have preferences — just let me know.
Expecting you to supply everything without mentioning it in the initial discussion.
3.What products do you use — and are they safe for my surfaces?
Wrong products damage surfaces — bleach on marble, abrasives on stainless steel, harsh chemicals on sealed wood floors. Ask specifically about surfaces in your home.
I use [brands] which are suitable for most surfaces. Tell me about your specific surfaces — marble, solid wood, engineered flooring — and I will confirm the right approach.
Using one general-purpose product for all surfaces, or not knowing that marble and granite need pH-neutral cleaners.
4.Can you provide references from current clients?
A cleaner with long-standing clients who are happy to vouch for them is a strong signal of reliability. Turnover in regular cleaning is common — clients who stay for years say something.
I have three clients who have been with me for over two years. Happy to share their contact details.
No references, very recent clients only, or unable to provide any evidence of longevity with clients.
5.What is covered in a regular clean — and what is charged extra?
The most common complaint about cleaners is misaligned expectations. What one person considers "a clean kitchen" another considers inadequate. A clear written task list prevents disputes.
A standard clean covers: all rooms vacuumed and mopped, bathroom and kitchen cleaned and sanitised, surfaces wiped, bins emptied. Inside oven, inside fridge, and windows are deep clean extras.
Vague "general clean" without specifying tasks, or claiming they will do everything without a clear scope.
6.How do you handle key holding and security?
A cleaner needs access when you are not home. Discuss key holding honestly — where keys are kept, who else has access, and what happens if keys are lost.
I keep client keys in a coded key safe at home, labelled only with a reference number — not your address. I am happy to sign a key holding agreement if you prefer.
Keys kept loose with your address label, or no clear security arrangements for key storage.
7.What happens if you are sick or on holiday — is there a replacement?
Reliability is the top priority in regular cleaning. A sole trader cleaner who falls ill leaves you without service. Know the plan before you rely on them.
I have a trusted colleague who covers for me when needed. I give you at least 48 hours notice and introduce you before any cover visit.
No cover arrangement — you simply go without a clean when they are away.
8.Are you self-employed — and are you aware of your tax obligations?
This sounds like an odd question but it matters. An unregistered sole trader operating cash-in-hand creates ambiguity about HMRC obligations. A professional cleaner is registered and invoices properly.
Yes — I am registered as a sole trader with HMRC. I provide invoices for all work. I do not operate cash-only.
Cash only, no invoices, reluctance to discuss their employment status.
Skip the research — our team is ready
Every cleaner at Hampstead On Demand is qualified, insured, and experienced with NW London properties. We do the due diligence so you do not have to.
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