(1) Assure that the company is bonded and carries a high limit liability policy with a reputable insurance company.

(2) Verify that ‘service providers’ are employees of the company and not independent contractors.

(3) Ask the house cleaning company if they have a regular training program that is ongoing.

(4) Ask if the house cleaning company offers a service guarantee, standing by the work they do.

(5) Verify that the house cleaning company has General Liability Insurance and pays all applicable federal and local taxes for its employees.

(6) Ask about the cleaning products used by the company. Make sure products are safe for children and pets.

(7) Ask the company if they have a ‘satisfaction policy’ for ‘re-cleans’ for specific aspects of cleaning that you feel were not performed to the agreed upon terms, and conditions of a service agreement.

(8) Ask the company for customer references who have had work performed similar to yours.

(9) When selecting a house cleaning services company, you are picking a company you can trust as much as selecting a company that will do a professional job of cleaning. Your home is your domain, and very personal. Make sure you are comfortable with the company that will be in your home.

(10) Use a well known and reputable company who you can always contact or find in the future for any reason. You want an established company with an office that you can go to if you ever need personal contact.

(11) Do not help house cleaners and do not lend them your tools. If a worker is hurt while you are assisting (e.g., holding a ladder) or is hurt using one of your tools, you may be liable via a ‘tort claim’ by the worker or contractor.