A housekeeper can be an amazing support for you and your family, freeing up your time to spend on more important things throughout your day. But when hiring anyone to help around your home or property, you want to be as diligent as possible. Here are five important questions to ask any housekeeper you interview:
1) References & Background Checks
Always ask for references, and a Criminal Reference Check if possible. Opening your home to a service provider requires significant trust, and you want to be sure your family and home are in safe hands. Referrals from family and friends are often a great source for quality help.
2) Experience
Experience isn’t everything, but an experienced housekeeper will know how to safely and effectively care for your home, whatever the type or size. Ask about the number of homes they have cared for, years of experience (including other relevant work), etc. For example, work in the hospitality and hotel industry can be an excellent asset for housekeeping staff.
3) How to Care for Special Surfaces
An experienced housekeeper will make note of certain surfaces in your home that require special care. For example, granite, stainless steel, marble and authentic hardwood can all be easily damaged without proper care and attention. Your housekeeper should be aware of the proper products to use on these services, and how to avoid damage.
4) Discuss your Preferences
A quality housekeeper will be able to accommodate most any preferences you have for your home. Would you like the plants watered or the deck swept clean? Do you prefer environmentally sustainable products? Some services have a limited scope of work (ex. Clean only the kitchen, bathrooms and floors), so be clear and specific with your preferences to be sure you are getting the level of service you are seeking.
5) Schedules and Rates
You can expect to pay anywhere from $18 – $40 per hour for housekeeping in the Parry Sound/Muskoka region. Be sure to ask about any additional charges such as travel fees, garbage removal fees, product supply charges, etc. Additionally, be specific about the dates/times that will work best for you and your family. Housekeeping services should not be a hindrance to your day-to-day activities and can often be scheduled while you are at work, running errands, etc.
Most of all, your housekeeping service should feel like a trustworthy support for you and your family.
Have more questions? We’re happy to help.
Call Home Trust Residential Services at 705-717-6703 or email us at: Amber@hometrusthousekeeping.com
Home Trust Residence Services 