The general season for those hot and dry dust storms has passed. Now is the time for the Blue Whales to return to Perth Canyon, and cooler temps to enjoy the vibrant flora in Hyde Park, or Raeburn Orchards. The time is now to be outside between the 31c of summer and 8c of winter.
While we are out and about engaging in water sports on the Swan River or biking and hiking Perth Hills, someone has to be keeping the house for us. It will not clean itself, yet. Although the rate of robot advancement and artificial intelligence applications points to that day being soon, we can hire humans to do many of the simple but time-consuming tasks that prevent our enjoyment of this season.
When we want a break, and a thoroughly clean home, we have several options to choose from. A lightning-fast Google search will provide plenty of options to select from. How do you know which one is trustworthy, responsible, and professional? As many questions as they will be asking you about the work you want done, be prepared with questions of your own to put your mind at ease. Let us briefly discuss the attributes to look for.
- Are they registered with an Australian Business Number (ABN)? Are they known by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)? Be certain you will be working with professionals. Professionals are associated with and accredited by recognized bodies.
- It is all too easy to verify their customer feedback online, but what company posts negative feedback from its customers? Almost none. You could ask your family, friends, or work peers for recommendations. Maybe the cleaning contractors in your office perform residential cleaning and much more than window cleaning in Perth.
- While you are looking at their website, look closer. Is it cheap and thrown together? Have they made it user-friendly and easy to navigate? When you contact them, do they respond quickly and professionally? You can answer all of these questions before you schedule an in-home or business cleaning contract site visit.
- Attention to detail is the primary duty of cleaners. The references above should all use the words “attention to detail” for you to consider them.
- You can have clean windows but if the communication isn’t clear, planning, timing, and cost expectations will be muddied. That will not do. Who can you call to get an answer from a human and not leave a voicemail to be ignored?
- What other credentials have they earned? How many years have they been in service in your area? Will they provide you with local references for direct current customer contact? They should be proud to connect you with customers.
- Are they customer-focused and offer many options to fit your needs or only regimented packages? Flexibility is very important as we have various expectations. How far in advance do they need notice to schedule? Most companies want a recurring schedule to better project staffing needs and profits but maybe you only need a one-time autumn cleaning. Will they take such a job?
- Are they ecologically and environmentally responsible? Will they bring caustic and harmful chemicals into your home? Do they use only pet-safe options or natural cleaners? If they do not offer safe cleaners; would they use those which you supply? Would that lower the cost of services?
- Will they use your equipment or their own? This could be another point of negotiation for reduced cost. If you have allergies or specific medical needs, your equipment might be of a higher grade.
- Speaking of pets; are they ok to work around yours while you are away? Will you need to lock your furry family members up or kennel them? This can cause issues and should be addressed. Regardless, my dogs will have to be with me. Are the cleaners safe with your pets?
- Ask for copies of their insurance bonding. Be sure it is current. We need to protect our homes and property from any possible accidental damages or liability from injuries sustained while on your property. Even if you use professional cleaners from your business, be sure they are covered for residential activity.
- I know cost is far from the last priority, but there are many factors in the cost equation. We are gaining the benefit of freedom, reduced work, and a completely clean home. Consider all components to arrive at a true valued total.
We will be locked inside from the cold for months of closed windows and recycled air, but let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves. Right now is the time to breathe easy and enjoy autumn.
