What questions should I ask before hiring a house cleaner?

Ask about insurance, background checks, what's included, supplies, pricing, team consistency, satisfaction guarantee, scheduling flexibility, reviews, and experience. These questions help you find a reliable cleaning service.

Should house cleaners be insured?

Absolutely. Professional house cleaners should have liability insurance and workers' compensation. This protects you if anything is damaged or if a cleaner is injured in your home.

How do I know if a cleaning company is trustworthy?

Check for insurance and bonding, background-checked employees, strong online reviews (Google, Yelp), years in business, and a clear satisfaction guarantee. Trustworthy companies are transparent about their practices.

What's included in standard house cleaning?

Standard cleaning typically includes dusting, vacuuming, mopping, bathroom cleaning, and kitchen cleaning. It usually excludes dishes, laundry, and interior windows. Always ask for a detailed list.

10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a House Cleaner in Chicago

Tips · 7 min read · Published 2026-01-08

Before you hire a house cleaning service, ask these 10 important questions. Protect your home, understand pricing, and find a reliable cleaning company in Chicago.

What should you ask before hiring a house cleaner? Finding the right cleaning service means asking the right questions upfront. Whether you're hiring for the first time or switching from a disappointing service, these 10 questions help you find a reliable, trustworthy cleaning company in Chicago.

1. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?

This is the most important question. A legitimate cleaning company should have liability insurance, workers' compensation for employees, and bonding to protect against theft. If they can't provide proof, move on. At Phes Cleaning, we're fully licensed, bonded, and insured for your protection.

2. Do You Conduct Background Checks on Employees?

Anyone entering your home should be background-checked. Ask what their screening process includes—criminal history, reference checks, and work history verification are standard for professional companies.

3. What's Included in Your Standard Cleaning?

Don't assume you know what 'cleaning' means to a particular company. Ask for a detailed list of what's included. Common inclusions are dusting, vacuuming, mopping, bathroom cleaning, and kitchen cleaning. Common exclusions include dishes, laundry, and interior windows.

4. Do You Bring Your Own Supplies and Equipment?

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