Guides / Recurring services
Hiring house cleaning
Regular cleaning is a recurring cost, so a clear agreement and fair price compound over time.
What to know
- Company or independent
- Companies usually carry insurance and handle taxes. Independent cleaners may cost less but you should confirm insurance.
- Household employer rules
- If you hire an individual who works for you rather than a company, you may have household employer tax obligations above certain pay levels. See IRS Publication 926.
- Agree on the list
- Write down what is included each visit and what costs extra, like inside the oven or windows.
- Pricing
- Ask whether it is flat-rate per visit or hourly, and how first deep cleans are priced.
Questions to ask the contractor
- Are you insured and bonded?
- What exactly is included each visit?
- How much notice do you need to skip or cancel a visit?
Where to check
- IRS Publication 926
- Household employer guide at irs.gov.
General information for US homeowners. Licensing, permit, contract and deposit rules vary by state and city, so check your local requirements. This isn't legal advice, and Stretch Nickels More isn't paid by any contractor, trade group or company mentioned here.