Abby Services
  • About Us
  • Caregiver Services
  • Professional Caregivers
  • FAQ’s
  • Home Health News & Blog

Hiring A Housekeeping Service. When “Light Housekeeping” Isn’t Enough.

January 21, 2020theshaeUncategorizedNo comments

Abby Services has been helping residents of Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and the surrounding area find great caregivers  to help them live independently since 1997. While the caregivers who work with Abby Services can do a lot to help seniors live independently, sometimes the seniors we serve need additional help. One area many folks require additional support with is housekeeping.

The Agency for Healthcare Accreditation defines what the private in-home caregivers who work with Abby Services can do. One regulation defines their duties as “light housekeeping”. The intent is to maintain a clean and safe environment for patients to live in. However, seniors are often confused about what light housekeeping entails.

The way we describe it is that a private caregiver is not meant to replace a professional housekeeper but to support them in maintaining a clean environment. A private caregiver may prolong the time between housekeeper visits however a private caregiver is not meant to take the place of a professional housekeeper.

If you are working with Abby Services You already have excellent support to remain independent. Here are some things to consider if you are hiring a private housekeeping service as originally published by Home Advisor:

Steps to Choosing the Right Cleaning Service

Choosing the right service is a straightforward process of research and asking the right questions. Unlike bosses who make your interview a nightmare as seen on this post on Metro, You should be asking questions relevant to the job.

  1. Find out what services they cover.

    1. Services staffed by trained professional house cleaners, are available in a wide variety of options including:
    • Regularly scheduled weekly visits.
    • Regularly scheduled biweekly visits.
    • One-time assistance on special occasions.
    • Demanding tasks such as garage or basement cleaning.
    • Events – before and after.
  1. Determine your budget and what you really need done.

    With most large companies, you can expect a basic package with optional services. Most plans start with a deep clean which covers the entire home. One-time visits tend to cost twice as much as a regularly scheduled recurring visit. But how much is your free time worth to you? The average American spends about 13 hours per week doing chores.

    Maid Services cost an average of $150 per visit. For independent housekeepers, expect to spend between $40 to $60 per visit since they charge between $25 to $35 per hour. Service providers charge per hour or per area as a flat rate – the larger the home, the higher the price. You may be quoted more per hour for a professional company, but they generally work in teams to get the job done quickly.

  2. Interview services and ask the right questions.

    Knowing the right questions to ask not only gives you peace of mind but also ensures you find the cleaner that fits your needs. Here are a few you shouldn’t skip:

    • What are your rates? Also find out if it’s by the service, hour or square foot or a flat fee.
    • Do you do background checks on your employees? If they do, ask to see them.
    • Are you insured and bonded? Most professional services are fully insured and bonded and will provide estimates.
    • Who supplies the cleaning products? You can also ask about environmentally friendly products. Some companies bring their own while others require you to supply the chemicals.
    • What guarantees do you offer? You’re paying for a service that you should be 100% satisfied with.
    • Do I need to crate my dog or cat? If you have pets, discuss this ahead of time.
    • How will you get into my home? It’s best to get a full list of anyone who has access to your home.
    • Will it be the same crew every week?
    • How long have you been in business? It’s also a good idea to make sure your cleaning company has a physical address to avoid scams.
    • Can I get all this in a written contract?
  3. Understand what to expect when the service starts.

    Discuss payment for cleaning services ahead of time. The best way to avoid confusion is with a clearly written contract. Be sure to discuss payment arrangements before your first appointment. The service should  have an established system in place already. If not, decide if you want to pay after each visit, or monthly. Be clear about included services and your expectations.

 

It can all be a lot to consider. At Abby Services we are here to help. Here are just a few local services worth checking out:

  • Toni Safford Cleaning: 239-218-2799

  • Gulf Coast Cleaning Services: 239-437-0131

 

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Recent Posts

  • Managing Your Caregivers Overtime.
  • Happy Customer Alert!
  • Making Thanksgiving Easier for Elderly Loved Ones Requiring In-Home Care
  • Choosing The Right In-Home Care Service
  • In-Home Care Benefits For Veterans and Their Spouses.

Recent Comments

    Archives

    • December 2020
    • November 2020
    • October 2020
    • September 2020
    • August 2020
    • May 2020
    • March 2020
    • January 2020
    • December 2019
    • November 2019
    • October 2019
    • September 2019
    • August 2019
    • July 2019
    • June 2019
    • May 2019
    • April 2019
    • February 2019
    • December 2018
    • November 2018
    • October 2018
    • August 2018
    • May 2018
    • April 2018
    • March 2018
    • February 2018
    • January 2018
    • December 2017
    • November 2017
    • October 2017
    • August 2017
    • July 2017
    • June 2017
    • April 2017
    • March 2017
    • February 2017
    • September 2016
    • August 2016
    • July 2016
    • June 2016
    • May 2016
    • December 2015
    • July 2013
    • June 2013
    • July 2011
    • March 2011

    Categories

    • Facility Care
    • Press
    • Rehab Facility
    • Resources
    • Uncategorized

    Tags

    1099 brook dale Carpet Cleaning COVID Deficiency free Dementia Fall Prevention homecare home health care Home Watch in-home care Independent Living memory care Pets rehab retirement Taxes The Windsor Thrive Veterans Day


    6314 Corporate Ct. Suite 160
    Fort Myers, FL 33919

    239-590-0861 or 1-877-261-6498

    Connect With Us

    Facebook

    Free Consultation

    • or leave this area blank and an Abby Services staff member will contact you.
    • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

    Recent Posts

    • Managing Your Caregivers Overtime.
    • Happy Customer Alert!
    • Making Thanksgiving Easier for Elderly Loved Ones Requiring In-Home Care
    • Choosing The Right In-Home Care Service
    • In-Home Care Benefits For Veterans and Their Spouses.
    Copyright © 2015 Abby Services Inc. All rights reserved. License # 30211206