If you need help with your household chores and you have never used the services of a cleaning company or a cleaning agency before then you need to know where to start.

In a first instance, you might ask friends and colleagues- maybe they are already using the services of a reputable cleaning company. Word of mouth is the best recommendation.

Next, you might search the Internet. You will be surprised how big a choice there is of cleaning companies and agencies. Here it is really important to know how to choose the ones you are going to contact.

Most people choose from the businesses which appear on the first search results’ page on Google. However, this probably isn’t the best criteria as these are usually big cleaning companies and agencies which mostly specialise in commercial and office cleaning.  You are looking for a small to medium size local business, which specialises in domestic cleaning as they can offer you a more personal service.

Last but not least, you need to find out the answers to a few important questions. Most of the cleaning companies have a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section on their web sites. If the information you are looking for is not there, do not hesitate to ask. You can call or send them an email.

This is a list of questions which, I think, everyone should find the answers to before hiring a cleaner:

• What is the going rate?
• Are there any additional charges- registration fee, monthly fee, VAT?
• How do I pay?
• Is the cleaner local?
• Does the cleaner speak English?
• What experience does the cleaner have?
• Have you got a Public Liability insurance?
• Is there a contract and if so, how long for?
• How will I be compensated if I am not happy with the cleaning service?
• Do I still have to pay the cleaner if I cancel a cleaning visit?

If you are satisfied with the answers and the conditions suit you then do not hesitate to try.