How to Know If a Cleaner Is Legitimate: Checks Every Homeowner Should Do

1. Check for Insurance

A legitimate cleaner should carry insurance to protect both themselves and your property. Accidents can happen, even with the best cleaners, and having the right insurance in place is essential.

Why is insurance important?

• Public liability insurance covers damage to your property or injury caused by the cleaner.
• It provides you with peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, you won’t be left financially responsible.

How to verify insurance:

• Ask the cleaner to provide proof of insurance. A legitimate cleaner should have no problem showing you their certificate of coverage.
• Double-check that the insurance is valid and covers all necessary aspects, such as property damage, accidents, and injury.

2. Verify Credentials and References

Another important step in ensuring a cleaner’s legitimacy is checking their credentials and references. Whether they are an independent cleaner or part of a cleaning agency, a reputable professional will have the proper qualifications and a history of satisfied customers.

What to look for:

• DBS checks (Disclosure and Barring Service): Many cleaning services will conduct DBS checks, ensuring that their staff has no criminal record.
• Training or qualifications: Some cleaners undergo specialised training to handle different cleaning tasks, from upholstery cleaning to handling chemicals safely.

How to verify references:

• Ask for references from previous clients, particularly if the cleaner is independent. A legitimate cleaner will be able to provide details of previous jobs and testimonials.
• Look online for reviews and testimonials. Be wary of cleaners who lack reviews or seem to have a history of complaints.

3. Confirm Business Details

If you are hiring a cleaning service through an agency, ensure that the business is registered and reputable. Independent cleaners may not have a company registration, but they should still provide clear and professional business details.

What to check:

• Company registration: If hiring through an agency, ensure the business is registered with relevant authorities (e.g., Companies House in the UK).
• Clear contact details: The cleaner should provide clear contact details, including a phone number, email address, and a physical address if applicable. Be cautious if you can only contact them via informal methods like personal social media.

Knowing what to expect from a professional cleaner is key. Understanding what makes a cleaner truly professional will help you spot the qualities that separate a good cleaner from a subpar one.

4. Look for Professionalism

A cleaner’s professionalism extends beyond the quality of their work. Their communication, appearance, and conduct should all reflect a high level of professionalism.

Signs of professionalism include:

• Clear and timely communication: A legitimate cleaner will respond promptly to enquiries and will be clear about the services they offer and their pricing.
• Well-maintained equipment and appearance: Cleaners should arrive in uniform (if applicable) and with professional-grade equipment and cleaning products.
• Formal agreements and invoicing: Any legitimate cleaner should provide a written contract or agreement detailing the scope of services, pricing, and terms of service. They should also issue formal invoices after completing work.

5. Ask the Right Questions

One of the best ways to ensure you’re hiring a legitimate cleaner is by asking the right questions. The importance of asking the right questions when hiring a cleaner can’t be overstated, as it helps you determine whether the cleaner is trustworthy and experienced.

Questions to ask include:

• Are you insured and can you provide proof?
• How long have you been in the cleaning business?
• Can you provide references or reviews from previous clients?
• Do you have any formal training or certifications in cleaning?

Asking these questions upfront can help you gauge the legitimacy of a cleaner and ensure that you’re making an informed choice.

6. Review Payment Methods

Legitimate cleaners and cleaning agencies should have clear payment terms. If a cleaner is reluctant to provide formal invoices, only accepts cash, or offers to work for an unusually low price, these are red flags.

Signs of a legitimate payment system:

• Clear pricing structure: The cleaner should offer clear pricing, whether hourly or a flat rate, and explain what services are included.
• Secure payment methods: Legitimate cleaners should offer secure, traceable payment methods such as bank transfers or card payments. Avoid cleaners who only accept cash, as this could be a sign of poor record-keeping or an attempt to avoid taxes.

Pro tip: Always ask for a receipt or invoice after the job is done. This protects both you and the cleaner in case of disputes.

7. Trust Your Instincts

Sometimes, your gut feeling can be one of the best indicators of whether a cleaner is legitimate. Pay attention to how they conduct themselves during the hiring process.

What to look out for:

• Reluctance to provide information: If the cleaner hesitates to provide references, proof of insurance, or any other requested details, this is a red flag.
• Unprofessional behaviour: A legitimate cleaner should be courteous, professional, and respectful. If their conduct is off, it could be an indication that they are not trustworthy.
• Unclear terms: If the cleaner is vague about their terms of service, pricing, or the services provided, it could be a sign that they are not legitimate.

It’s important to watch for red flags when hiring a cleaner, especially if they are independent. Familiarising yourself with red flags that indicate an independent cleaner might not be the best choice can save you from potential issues down the line. Independent cleaners, while often cheaper, may not always have the same level of oversight and reliability as established agencies.

8. Trial Clean and Feedback

If you're unsure about hiring a cleaner, consider starting with a trial clean. This allows you to assess their performance and ensure they meet your expectations.

Why a trial clean is helpful:

• You can see how well the cleaner performs their tasks and if they follow your instructions.
• It gives you a chance to gauge their punctuality, professionalism, and whether they are a good fit for your home.
• After the trial clean, provide feedback. If they are legitimate, they will be open to receiving constructive feedback and improving their service.

Conclusion

Hiring a cleaner is a big decision, and ensuring that they are legitimate is essential for the safety of your home and your peace of mind. By following these key checks—such as verifying insurance, reviewing credentials and references, and asking the right questions—you can avoid the risks of hiring an untrustworthy cleaner.

Remember to trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask for the necessary details upfront. A good cleaner will have no problem providing the information you need to make an informed decision.