Whether you’re a renter or a buyer, you should clean a house when moving out. For renters, it’s usually written in the lease that a house must be cleaned before it’s vacated. If you’re unsure how thoroughly to clean the place, check with the landlord beforehand; otherwise, you may not receive your deposit back. When selling a house, a contractual agreement is often made with the realtor that the house is swept and that all personal belongings are removed before the previous owners move out.

Before hiring a cleaning service for your home, it's wise to ask several questions. Find out what services they offer, whether they work alone or with a company, and if they can provide references. It's also important to ask if they conduct background checks on employees. Inquire about their scheduling, availability, and when they can provide an estimate. Confirm if they have insurance, offer a guarantee, and bring their own cleaning supplies and equipment. You should also clarify if you need to be home during the cleaning, what arrangements are necessary for pets, and if there is a written contract. Finally, ask how they set their rates and if they are available for emergencies and what those charges would be.

Yes, you should wash your sheets and clothes immediately after receiving a pest control service. If your pest pro sprayed chemicals inside your home, it’s important to remove any lingering residue from your washable items. Consult your pest control pro for a list of post-treatment steps to follow.

House cleaners typically charge by the hour, with average rates ranging from $40 to $50 per hour per cleaner. The total cost depends on factors like the size of your house, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the specific services you request.

A standard cleaning session generally costs between $120 and $240. However, the price can be significantly higher for very large homes or comprehensive services. Keep in mind that add-on services, such as cleaning windows or ovens, will cost extra.

Deep cleaning is more expensive than a standard session—often at least twice the price—because it involves more time and effort, such as moving furniture to clean underneath and reaching difficult areas. Due to the cost, some recommend hiring professionals for seasonal deep cleans while managing regular weekly or biweekly upkeep yourself.