Cleaning Info scotty platt Cleaning Info scotty platt

Looking to hire a house cleaning service? Here are 10 tips on what you should look for.

1, How quickly do they respond to you? 

This is always the first thing you should look at. When you call, do they pick up the phone or call you back in a timely manner? Being prompt in responding to potential clients is a revelation how they will respond once you are a client.       

2, What do their reviews say? 

Take the time to look at their Google and Facebook page for any feedback their clients give. Obviously, all businesses will get negative reviews since you can’t please everyone. However, if the complaints are consistently about the same thing, this could be a red flag. Look to see if you know anyone who is connected with their page. Ask around. Their reputation will speak for themself. You can always ask for the last three people they served as references too. 

3, How long have they been in business?

Check around to see how long they have been in business and their web activity. It’s always best to do business with someone who has been around for a while compared to a business that just launched yesterday. Experience is golden!

4, What services do they offer and what services they don't do? Do they provide cleaning supplies? 

Make sure the company offers the services you are looking for. If you have a particular task you would like done, make sure they can assist you. Also, ask for their policies and agreement beforehand so you understand it to avoid confusion later.  Find out if you need to provide supplies or any equipment like a vacuum or ladders. Note: if you provide cleaning supplies, they might not be familiar with them and therefore the best results may not be achieved. In addition, the cost of purchasing supplies can run you an extra $20 per cleaning. So this is very important!

5, How do they price cleaning services?

Do they charge a flat rate? Hourly? Understand how their pricing system works to avoid any miscommunication when the job is completed. Ask how many cleaners will be provided and the scope of the work in which the price includes. 

6, What is their guarantee policy? 

You are paying for a service, so you should be satisfied when it is done. If you are not, how will the company handle it? Will they refund you? Will they send someone out to do a follow-up cleaning in a timely manner? 

7, If you choose to continue services on a recurring basis, will you send the same cleaner/s for every cleaning?

Will they have a different person coming and going every cleaning or will they try and send the same cleaner? If you have additional requests that aren't in their normal scope, this could be crucial in receiving a consistent clean every time. 

8, What happens if an item goes missing or breakage occurs? Can they show proof of insurance & bonding?

If a company is unable to provide proof of insurance, you should not hire them. If you do, it is unlikely that you will have any protection against theft or damages that could occur. You will be held responsible. Usually, it is handled through your homeowners insurance however you will be out of pocket the deductible.  

9, What happens if a cleaner hurts his or herself while on your property/home?

It happens, cleaners fall, slip or injure themselves from time to time. The question is, will you be on the hook for any medical expenses? Yes, if you choose someone who doesn't have workers compensation. So, ask if they carry it on their cleaners to ensure you are fully protected against such claims. 

10, Do they service homes with pets? Ask what the procedure is. 

If you have pets, you should definitely discuss this before your first cleaning. Will you need to relocate them while the cleaning is being performed and the additional cost? 

All these things are crucial in helping you find the best cleaning service to meet your home's needs. Please visit our website at plattservicesllc.com to learn more about the services we offer. Also, you can receive an instant quote. If you prefer to speak to one of our knowledgeable staff, call our office at 337.366.3986



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Cleaning Info scotty platt Cleaning Info scotty platt

Do you know the differences between a cleaning company and a individual?

Should hire a cleaning company or a individual?

Should hire a cleaning company or a individual?

Staying on top of your house cleaning is essential! We have come up with a few tips to see which service is best for you: a cleaning company or an individual cleaner?

Cleaning companies:

  • They are insured and bonded to protect the homeowner if someone gets hurt or anything is broken or misplaced. 

  • Staff is equipped to offer flexibility in rescheduling. If one staff member is sick, they can replace the cleaner without an interruption in servicing your home. 

  • Most companies have the resources to train staff efficiently and educate the science behind cleaning. 

  • They tend to bring their own products and tools as they have research for the best. 

  • Because of these facts, cleaning companies tend to charge a higher rate to offset the cost of being a legit company. 

Individual cleaners:

  • Most likely aren't covered by any insurance. The homeowner takes full responsibility for someone getting hurt or if breakage occurs. 

  • When the cleaner becomes sick, your services will be interrupted until the cleaner feels better. Take note that the cleaner may not have the availability right away to resume services immediately. 

  • Because of the discount you receive in hiring an individual cleaner, they usually don't invest in research, education or any certifications. 

  • Most of the time, the homeowner will have to provide the supplies. These could raise the cost of the cleaning an extra $15-25.

  • However, individual cleaners are beneficial for those who need cleaning services when their budget is limited. 

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A checklist to prepare your family and home for a hurricane.

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This is a checklist of things to do before, during, and after a storm.

Items to always have in place:

  • Enter the season prepared.

  • Know all evacuation routes if you live close to the coast.

  • Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes, and they have storm shutters.

  • Have proper tools, supplies, and a first aid kit.

  • Have plenty of batteries and flashlights Always have plenty of non-perishable foods on hand.


Couple of days before:

  • Protect windows with plywood boards, or storm shutters.

  • Secure outside objects.

  • Take picture of property and inside the home.

  • Know where your insurance policies are located.

  • Make sure you have plenty of fuel and water.

  • Have several days supply of food and water for each family member.

  • If called to evacuate, do so immediately.


Right before storm hits:

  • Be ready to put your plan and preparation into action.

  • Pay attention to local weather reports on radio, television, or the internet.

  • Have house boarded up, or have storm shutters in place.

  • Have plenty of food and water.

  • Make sure all your tools, supplies, and first aid kit available for use.

  • Have a secure room available.


During storm:

  • Stay in Secure Room.

  • Stay away from windows.

  • Do not use the phone, or candles.

  • Monitor Weather and Civil Service Bulletins on radio.

  • Have supplies on hand.

  • Remain indoors when the eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly.


After storm:

  • Make sure that all is definitely clear outside, and the storm has completely passed before going out.

  • Take pictures of the damage.

  • Report downed power lines, and stay away from them.

  • Use stored water and food.

  • Be patient.

  • Things will take a while before they get back to normal.

Flooding!

Careful on roads after storm, roads could be flooded and you can get stuck.

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