WISCONSIN (NBC 26) — The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau states that cleaning companies may find themselves following different deep cleaning methods when going into homes, home offices, and businesses because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With businesses in the state reopening, the BBB says employers may be finding ways to keep a clean environment for their employees when they come back to the office.
The CDC issued recommendations on how to clean and disinfect multiple kinds of surfaces to help prevent the spread of the virus. But when thinking about hiring a cleaning business or an individual cleaning person, the BBB asks you to consider these seven tips:
- Research the company. Ask friends, family members, and neighbors for their recommendations on a reputable cleaning business or individual. It's good practice to interview at least three companies to get an estimate before selecting one to hire. Check out prospective business through BBB.org to read reviews or complaints on them. Beware of businesses with poor reviews and multiple complaints, more importantly see how the business addresses them.
- Interview candidates. Be sure to interview multiple candidates to determine if you would prefer to hire a large cleaning business or individual cleaning person. Request to meet with someone from the cleaning business as well as with the person who will actually clean your space. During the interview process, determine if you would be comfortable with them since they will be in your home or office. Ask what type of cleaning products are used, especially if there are family or employees who may be sensitive to harsh chemicals.
- Check credentials. Any individual or business that is considered for hire should be bonded and insured. This will protect your company and family in the event something is broken, stolen, or if someone gets injured on the job. Whether you hire an individual or a business, request that the employees working in your space have a background check; or you may want to complete one on them yourself for peace of mind.
- Request references. Before making an offer, ask that the business or individual provide a list of references you may contact. When speaking with the references, look for a cleaning business or individual that has repeat satisfied customers. Ask the references about the services they use and if the cleaning business met expectations.
- Discuss cost. Determine the length of time the cleaning service is necessary. Find out exactly what is included in their services and make sure it encompasses everything you wish to have cleaned. If you want something specific, communicate that upfront so the cleaning company or person is prepared to accommodate your request. The representative should walk through your home or office before providing an estimate. Ask if the cleaning business provides their own cleaning supplies; if not, the cost of the services should le less expensive. Keep in mind the least expensive cleaning services may not be giving you the best deal for your money.
- Get everything in writing. When making a final decision, review the written agreement that spells out clearly what the cleaners will do and the time frame in which it will be completed.
- Prepare for the services. Before the cleaning service arrives, secure all personal items such as jewelry, documents with private information on it, and other valuables. Additionally, make arrangements for pets so it's less stressful for them and for the cleaning crew.
The BBB adds to verify if a business is "licensed, bonded, and insured" as these are important when having any type of work done in a home or office. In Wisconsin, there is no agency that “licenses” cleaning services.
BBB explains that a bond is a form of insurance that protects you from any dishonest or criminal acts by the people who will come into your home to clean it. Insurance protects you if the cleaning people cause an accident, such as forgetting to shut off a faucet or losing a key.
You can find a cleaning service near you through the BBB's website.
