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If you're considering a cleaning service to help keep your home tidy, there are a few things you should consider. Whether you're looking for one-time jobs like tile and grout cleaning in Jacksonville, or a full cleaning of your home on a regular basis, these points will help you make sure you find the right fit.

1. Determine How Much Help You Need

If your home generally stays clean, or you have the time and ability to handle most of the tasks yourself, you may be looking for someone to come in and help with targeted tasks and special projects. Spring cleaning, preparing for the holidays, or deep cleaning certain areas, like bathrooms and kitchens, are just some of the services you may want. If you're looking to cut down on the number of hours you spend every week cleaning, then a regularly scheduled, full-service cleaning is what you'll need.

2. Determine What Type of Service To Choose

Jacksonville cleaning companies employ workers and take care of all the paperwork, including taxes and insurance. If you hire an individual that is not affiliated with a company, you'll have to take care of the references, taxes and additional paperwork yourself. You'll also have to do your own background checks.

3. Decide On a Rate Structure

A regular Jacksonville housekeeping service can be billed by the hour or by the job. If, however, there is not much variation in your needs, settling on a flat fee can be helpful for both you and the worker as everyone's expectations will be the same. A combination may be available as well. For example, a flat rate to do your weekly dusting and vacuuming, and an hourly rate for any add-ons such as tile and grout cleaning, window cleaning, or other special services.

4. Choose the Right Individual or Service

Don't try to rush through this part of the process. Ask family, friends, and neighbors if they can recommend a great person or service. One of the best ways to get reliable information is from someone you trust who won't be afraid to give you their real opinions. Interview each company or person you are considering. Ask for references, work history, and a criminal background check and follow through with all three. A cleaning service will collect all of this information from their employees when they hire them.

5. Ask For a Trial Period

It can take a couple of trips to get used to your home and your expectations. A trial period of two to four weeks can give you and the housekeeper time to settle in to a routine and for you to see what the individual is truly capable of. If they are unable to meet your expectations after three or four trips to your home, it is probably best to try a different person. Most cleaning services in Jacksonville will allow you to try out several individuals until you find the one that works best for you.

6. Set Clear Boundaries and Expectations

Taking the time to lay everything out before work begins will make sure that the working relationship is off to a good start. Create clear boundaries that include any rooms, areas, or items that are off-limits. Make a list of what is expected with each visit, and write down any special instructions you have. Most cleaning services allow for adding on separate services such as tile and grout cleaning Jacksonville, blinds and shutters, and carpet cleaning. Determine how to request and arrange for extras.

No matter what your needs are, from tile and grout cleaning in Jacksonville, air duct and dryer vent cleaning, or a regularly scheduled full-service housekeeper, First Coast Home Pros has you covered.