Running a vacation rental business involves juggling many tasks, from property management and marketing to guest communications. However, cleanliness is one aspect that significantly impacts guest satisfaction and, consequently, your reviews and repeat business.
Finding the right cleaning service is crucial for maintaining a high standard for your properties. Here’s a detailed guide on how to find reliable, high-quality cleaners for your vacation rentals.
We’ve outlined a basic flowchart that takes you from determining your needs to onboarding the chosen cleaning staff into your operations.
Determine How Many Cleaners Are Needed
Before you search, you must identify the number of cleaners you need. The number can depend on several factors:
- Size of the Property: Larger homes may require more cleaners.
- Rental Frequency: Frequent turnovers mean you’ll need a reliable team that can manage multiple cleanings in a short period.
- Specific Needs: Consider whether the property requires standard, deep, or specialized services like carpet cleaning.
Ask for Recommendations in Local Facebook Groups
Local Facebook groups are a great place to start your search. Groups often contain a mix of locals and business owners who can provide valuable recommendations. Just make a post asking for suggestions and experiences with cleaning services.
Search Facebook Groups for Similar Questions
Don’t just rely on the answers to your own post; search the group for similar questions others have asked. This will provide a broader range of opinions and recommendations, increasing the odds you find a suitable service.
Call Local Cleaning Companies
Don’t underestimate the power of a simple phone call. Contact local cleaning companies to inquire about their services. Ask questions related to:
- Availability
- Pricing
- Services offered
- Previous experience with vacation rentals
Compile a List of Candidates (Contractors & Companies)
After gathering all the information, make a list of potential candidates. This should include both independent contractors and cleaning companies. When compiling your list, consider:
- Budget constraints
- Availability and flexibility
- Range of services offered
Verify Business Liability Insurance and Workers’ Comp Insurance
Ensuring that your chosen cleaner has business liability and workers’ compensation insurance is a must. This protects you from potential liabilities in case of accidents or damages. Always ask for proof of insurance during the vetting process.
Phone Interview Contractors and Companies
Once you have a shortlist, conduct phone interviews to further assess your candidates. Ask about:
- Their cleaning process
- What cleaning supplies they use
- How they handle scheduling and last-minute changes
- References from previous clients
Try Two or More Contractors or Companies for Each Position Available
To give you a better understanding of the quality of work, it’s a good idea to try out two or more candidates. This will allow you to compare their services, reliability, and value for money directly.
Provide Feedback to Cleaners After Trial Run
After the trial run, provide constructive feedback. This not only helps them improve but also establishes an open line of communication. Point out what you liked and what needs improvement.
Once Candidate Is Selected, Onboard Them into Your Scheduling Software
After you’ve found the cleaner that meets your requirements, it’s time for onboarding. Integrate them into your scheduling software to ensure seamless operations. Make sure they’re familiar with how to check their cleaning schedule, property locations, and any special instructions for each property.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect cleaning service for your vacation rental business is not a task to be taken lightly. From determining your needs to the actual search and vetting process, each step is crucial in ensuring that you end up with a cleaner that meets your specific requirements. By following this comprehensive guide, you’re well on your way to finding a reliable, efficient cleaning service that will help elevate your vacation rental business to new heights. After all, a clean property is often the first step toward glowing reviews and repeat bookings.