There are many things to consider when hiring a housekeeper for yourself or an elderly loved one. A housekeeper provides help around the house, but also will have access to areas where you keep valuable items. Hiring the right housekeeper for you is an important decision.
Many articles on the internet that have good tips for hiring a housekeeper. We’ve condensed them for you here.
What do you need a housekeeper to do for you?
Before hiring a housekeeper, think about whether you need simple cleaning to keep your house looking nice or if you need deep cleaning. Your desired cleaning level helps to determine what kind of housekeeping services that you need. When you decide what services you are looking for in advance, you can better communicate what you are looking for to a housekeeper.
Do you want to hire one individual to do the cleaning you need or do you want to hire a cleaning company?
There are pros and cons to each of these options. It might be easier to build rapport with just one individual who comes in to clean your home. However, if they cannot come due to schedule conflicts or illness, it is likely that no one will clean your home in their absence. Also be aware that if you hire an individual, you will be responsible for keeping track of their pay and tax withholding. A cleaning service should have other employees to send if your regular housekeeper is unable to come. The company would be in charge of taxes for their employees. A cleaning service should also be bonded and insured if something in your home is broken or stolen.
What should you expect to pay when you choose your housekeeper?
Deciding before interviewing what you can pay a housekeeper by the hour or by the job. Take into consideration the going rate in your area and that pay for housekeepers is likely to be at least 2 to 3 times minimum wage. Some cleaning companies may have set non-negotiable rates that they provide in advance of coming to clean your home.
How do you determine if a housekeeper is trustworthy to come into your home?
When hiring an individual, it is your responsibility to screen them and do a background check on them. The Virginia State Police offer a Criminal Background Check which you may find helpful. It is also important to check references and make sure that the person you want to hire has a good reputation and work ethic.
Many cleaning agencies screen their employees before allowing them into your home. Their reputation as a company rests on your satisfaction with the services they provide. In addition, many cleaning services are bonded and insured as a guarantee of their integrity.
How do you screen your housekeeper and ask for a trial period?
Once you have selected the housekeeper you want to hire, it is recommended that you request a trial period of two weeks. That gives you a chance to assess if your housekeeper meets your needs. It also gives the housekeeper time to adjust to what you want and how you communicate your needs to them.
Why are good communication and boundaries important?
Communicating exactly what you want cleaned and if there is a specific way that you want it cleaned helps your housekeeper know your expectations. Talk about who will provide cleaning supplies needed to clean your home.
Setting clear boundaries will also be helpful to you and your housekeeper. Specify whether or not you mind them using your refrigerator, phone or stereo.
Hiring a housekeeper can help bring peace and order to your home and make it a more relaxing and comfortable place for you to live.
Next Steps
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