Selecting A Professional Cleaner
Important Tips

A common misconception is that all cleaning services are alike. The truth is that a wide range of quality levels are available. Some cleaners specialize in commercial cleaning, and only do residential work to fill in their schedules. Others are “coupon” cleaners whose business strategy is to distribute large quantities of coupons offering remarkably low prices. Typically, their intent is to round up a large group of customers quickly in a specific geographic area, schedule as many jobs as possible in the target area and work as quickly as possible to get on to the next job. A few firms (such as Guarantee Carpet Cleaning) specialize in the responsible care of carpet or upholstery that is considered an investment. Choosing the right vendor for you may take some time, but the results are worthwhile.

When choosing a professional cleaner, it is important to feel confident about who is coming into your home. Ask if the cleaner is familiar with your type of carpet or upholstery. If you consider your floor coverings and furniture an investment, you probably will not want a “coupon” cleaner. Make sure the cleaner you choose will treat your carpet individually. For example, if you have sisal carpet (which cannot be cleaned with traditional methods), ask if they know what it is and how to best care for it. Ask how wool carpet is treated differently from a synthetic carpet. When calling a cleaning company, is the person you speak with on the phone polite and knowledgeable? How does the technician greet you at the door? You should be addressed with respect, as "sir" or "ma'am." Is the technician dressed professionally? Is their vehicle clean? Does the technician conduct a thorough evaluation of your carpet and go over it with you prior to beginning any work? Does the company have testimonials or references from qualified people or professionals? These are all important questions to ask when choosing the best service for your needs.

Specific recommendations on choosing a professional cleaner:

• Require proof of technical certification of the firm. Technicians should wear a certification patch.
• Ask to see an identification badge or credentials before allowing anyone to enter your home or place of business.
• Confirm the price against your telephone quotation before allowing the job to be started. This should be written. Ask that any discrepancies be fully explained.
• Ask for references. A qualified service company will have the recommendation of several major manufacturers of carpeting and “report cards” from clients.
• Ask if the process is compatible with your warranty. A reputable cleaning firm will have available the toll-free numbers of manufacturers so you can check.
• Require proof of insurance, certification, and licensing if it is required in your community.
• Ask about the disposal of waste water.
• Ask if any dangerous chemicals, such as butyl cellosolve, carbon tetrachloride, or high pH cleaning chemicals will be used on your premises.
• Move your own delicate, breakable objects before the cleaners arrive.
• Allow a parking space with easy access to the door where cleaners will come in.
• Expect reputable cleaners to move your furniture at no extra charge.
• Insist on a scheduled appointment or at least a promise of morning or afternoon.
• Business with a firm that has an intelligent person answering the phone.

• Make an appointment with anyone who calls YOU on the telephone.
• Buy services from someone canvassing your neighborhood.
• Call anyone who advertises “Any room, $x.xx.” Rooms are different sizes, therefore the charge should be based on the amount of carpet cleaned.
• Pay for extras such as pre-spotting, deep scrubbing, dual/triple process, pile setting, color brightening, or pre-vacuuming. These services should be part of the regular service if they are necessary.
• Believe that the use of names such as DuPont or Scotchgard™ mean an affiliation or credibility.
• Sign an invoice, agreement, or contract until you fully understand it.
• Pay cash. Use a check or credit card so you can stop payment if the work is unsatisfactory or you believe you have been overcharged.
• Make a check out to an individual, only to a company name.
• Allow anyone to take your credit card off your premises.
• Hire a service company that is unprofessional in appearance or behavior.
• Be afraid to ask questions. Carpet and furniture are a large investment. Be cautious.
• Allow cleaning people to keep the engine of their cleaning vehicle running while cleaning is in progress.
• Allow dangerous stored fuels such as propane or gasoline to be brought onto your premises.
• Be pressured into purchasing unnecessary treatments in addition to cleaning.
• Allow cleaning people to dump dirty water on your lawn, in the street, or in your driveway.