Employing a Cleaner
After years of struggling to raise four children, work full time and care for a larger than average home, I eventually overcame feelings of guilt and shame at not being able to keep a clean and tidy house, and employed a company to do it instead. It felt like a load had been lifted! No more nagging feelings. No more panic. No more dread. Suddenly my house felt clean, loved and well cared for – and I wondered what all the fuss had been about!
The number of people employing cleaners is on the increase. Some take this option because they don’t like housework, whilst others don’t have time or else prefer to be doing other things. Yet others are too elderly, ill or infirm to clean for themselves. Whatever your reason, it is important to find a company you trust to care for your home and your valued possessions.
The best way to find a cleaner is by personal recommendation, but if that isn’t possible, one of your first priorities should be to check out references and testimonials. If the company can prove they’ve done a good job for others, chances are they will serve you well too.
Next, check out what insurance cover is in place. As a minimum there should be £5m Employers Liability and £1m Public/Products Liability insurance cover. Also, find out what procedures will be followed if your property gets damaged or broken during cleaning.
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Be sure to find out what vetting procedures are employed, and whether DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks are made. Also, enquire about training and qualifications.
Don’t forget to ask about temporary relief during holidays or periods of illness. Will the company provide a replacement, or are you expected to make alternative arrangements?
Finally, find out how flexible your cleaning company is. Do they work to a fixed template, or are they happy to comply with your individual requirements? When I employed my cleaner, I was encouraged to state clearly what I wanted doing and how. A good cleaner is many things – but mind reader is not one of them!
Before making your decision, do meet your cleaning representative first. A look around the house and a discussion about what you would like doing, should result in an estimate of how long it will take and how much it is going to cost. Most companies charge by the hour. I couldn’t afford to have my entire house cleaned every week, so I decided on the most important areas and then selected additional chores to be done on a fortnightly or monthly basis.
If you are still undecided about whether to employ a cleaner or not, take advice from someone who knows and go for it! You’ll never look back!
To advertise in thewire t. 07720 429 613 e.
the.wire@btinternet.com
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