Hiring a cleaning company is straightforward until something goes wrong — a missed visit, a damaged item, or a cleaner who simply isn't up to scratch. The difference between a reliable company and a poor one usually comes down to a handful of checks most people skip because they seem obvious. This guide walks you through what actually matters before you book anyone into your home or business.
What to Check Before Booking
Before you look at price or availability, confirm the basics. A reputable cleaning company operating in Scotland should be able to answer these questions without hesitation:
- Public liability insurance: This covers damage to your property caused by their staff. Ask for the certificate, not just a yes or no answer.
- Employer's liability insurance: Required by law if they employ staff. If a cleaner is injured on your property, you want to know they're covered.
- PVG scheme membership: For cleaners working in private homes, especially if children or vulnerable adults are present, check whether staff have been through Disclosure Scotland's Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme. Not every company does this, but the better ones do.
- Employed staff vs. self-employed: Some companies introduce you to self-employed cleaners rather than employing them directly. This affects accountability and insurance coverage, so clarify upfront.
Qualifications and Certifications Worth Knowing
Cleaning isn't a licensed trade in the UK, so there's no single qualification you must see. But there are recognised marks that signal a company takes its work seriously:
- British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc): The main professional body for the cleaning industry in the UK. BICSc-trained operatives have been assessed in specific cleaning methods. It matters more for commercial contracts than domestic cleaning, but it's still a good sign.
- COSHH awareness: Any company using chemical cleaning products should have staff trained in the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health regulations. This is basic compliance, not a bonus.
- ISO 9001: Larger commercial cleaning companies may hold this quality management certification. Relevant if you're procuring cleaning services for an office or business premises.
- NCCA membership: The National Carpet Cleaners Association is worth checking if you're specifically booking carpet or upholstery cleaning.
How to Compare Quotes Properly
Getting three quotes is sensible, but only if you're comparing like for like. A cheaper quote often means fewer hours, less experienced staff, or a scope of work that quietly excludes what you assumed was included.
- Ask each company to specify exactly what tasks are included and how long they'll spend on the job.
- Find out whether equipment and cleaning products are supplied or whether you're expected to provide them.
- Check if VAT is included in the quote. Some smaller sole traders aren't VAT-registered, which can make their prices look lower.
- For regular cleaning contracts, ask what happens if you need to cancel or rearrange, and whether there's a minimum contract period.
- Confirm whether the same cleaner or team will attend each visit. Consistency matters for domestic cleaning in particular.
Reality check: The cheapest quote rarely reflects the full cost. Factor in what it would cost to re-clean or repair damage caused by a company that cut corners. A company charging a fair rate and holding proper insurance is nearly always better value than the cheapest option on the list.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- No evidence of public liability insurance, or reluctance to share the certificate
- No physical address, only a mobile number and a generic email
- Quotes given without any visit or detailed questions about the property
- Pressure to pay a large deposit in cash upfront
- No written confirmation of the scope of work or pricing
- Vague or evasive answers about whether staff are employed or self-employed
- No process for handling complaints or damage claims
What a Good Service Actually Looks Like
A professional cleaning company doesn't just clean well on the first visit to win your business. The standard should be consistent. Look for:
- A clear written quote or contract before any work starts
- Staff who arrive on time and with their own equipment unless otherwise agreed
- A named point of contact, not just a general inbox
- A straightforward complaints process and willingness to return and rectify any issues
- Regular communication if anything changes, such as staff or scheduling
How to Read Online Reviews
Reviews are useful, but they need a critical eye. A company with 200 reviews averaging 4.6 stars is more informative than one with five glowing reviews and nothing else. When reading reviews for a cleaning company:
- Look for specific detail about the type of cleaning done, not just "great service"
- Check how the company responds to negative reviews. A professional response to a complaint tells you more than ten five-star reviews
- Be cautious of a sudden cluster of reviews over a short period
- Cross-check Google reviews with a second platform such as Checkatrade or Trustpilot
Ready to find a cleaning company? Browse trusted cleaning companies in Edinburgh listed on Found Local, with contact details and customer reviews to help you make a confident choice.