Start with the routine rooms
A standard clean commonly covers reachable surfaces and floors in occupied rooms. Ask the provider to list the included tasks in writing.
The EPA reports that Americans spend about 90 percent of their time indoors. Source: EPA indoor air quality report (opens in a new tab)
For bedrooms and living areas, discuss dusting, vacuuming, mopping, mirrors, and trash. State whether cleaners should move small items or clean beneath furniture.
For kitchens, discuss counters, sinks, cabinet fronts, appliance exteriors, and floors. For bathrooms, discuss toilets, showers, tubs, sinks, mirrors, and floors.
Separate cleaning from disinfection
The CDC says cleaning removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. It treats sanitizing and disinfecting as separate steps after cleaning. Source: CDC home cleaning guidance (opens in a new tab)
Tell the provider when someone is sick or has a weakened immune system. Ask which surfaces need disinfection and which products the provider plans to use.
Identify tasks outside the standard clean
Ask about appliance interiors, interior windows, blinds, baseboards, walls, laundry, dishes, and inside cabinets. Providers may treat these as extra tasks.
Heavy buildup, post-construction dust, move-out work, and mold need a different scope. Describe these conditions before the visit.
Prepare a clear request
List the home size, room count, pets, access details, and requested date. Add photos when a room has heavy buildup or an unusual surface.
Request a written checklist and price. Confirm who supplies the cleaning products and equipment.
Guides for house cleaning
Moisture and mold cleaning limits in Surfside Beach, SC
Learn when moisture or visible mold changes a house cleaning request and when to call an experienced cleanup provider.
Town rules
Trash and yard debris rules
Set trash carts curbside by 6:00 a.m. on the scheduled collection day.