Countrytime Cleaning & Maid Services

Home
About Our Company
Services Provided
Policies/Procedures
FAQ
Contact Us
Cleaning for a Reason
Referral/Gift Certificate/Survey
Cleaning Tips
Testimonials
Employment
Links
Blog

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

1)  What is the cost of my cleaning?
Fees are based on the size and condition of your home (how many bedrooms, bathrooms, finished basement, hardwood floors).  When you receive the "initial estimate", it is just that - an estimate.  Often with first-time cleanings and one-time cleanings - it may require additional time and additional fee.


2)  Are you a Franchise?
No.  We are a locally owned and operated business.


3)  How many cleaning people will clean my home?
There will usually be two (2) to three (3) cleaning techs that will be coming into your home to clean.


4)  Does your staff wear uniforms?
Yes.  You can easily identify us because we wear uniforms with our company logo.


5)  Can I get an estimate over the phone?
Absolutely.  We can give you a rough estimate.  We don't want to waste your time if our prices do not coincide with your budget.  We must stress that estimates over the phone are rarely accurate; as not two homes are alike in spite of similar square footage - kids, pets, different surfaces, heavy usage, etc.  An "in-home" consultation will be necessary to give you a better idea for your cleaning.


6)  Do you provide "in-home" consultation?
Yes - this is FREE to you.  An "in-home" consultation is usually the way to go if you want the most accurate quote.


7)  How long will the "in-home" consultation take?
The "in-home" consultation will take no longer than 25 - 45 minutes, depending on the size of your home.  During the visit, we answer any specific questions you may have about our company and services.  We ask if you could give us a tour of your home - by giving us a tour, we are able to write down what you would like done during the initial cleaning and regular cleaning visits.  Once we have gathered all the information you have provided us, we can give you an estimate time it will take and give you a quote.
You are under no obligation to use our services after receiving the quote and of course...this service is FREE to you.  We know that choosing a cleaning service is an important decision, and that is why we never pressure prospective customers to decide during our visit.


For a "Basic" quote - you can go on-line to our "Contact" page and tell us your square footage of your home, how many bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas that needs to be cleaned, and we will send you a basic/rough estimate.  Please note...the on-line quote is subject to change depending on the conditions when Countrytime Cleaning & Maid Services (CCMS) cleaning techs arrive at your home.


8)  How do I prepare for the cleaning team's arrival?
In order to give you the Best value for your money, we ask that you straighten up the night before. (i.e. - clothes, dishes, toys, paper, etc.)  This allows our cleaning techs to clean more thoroughly.  Our techs do not do laundry or dishes. 
During the warm summer months, we appreciate it if you could set your air conditioner at an appropriate temperature.  In winter months, we appreciate it when your sidewalks and driveways are cleaned of snow and ice so the cleaning team is able to reach your door.


9)  Why should I choose a professional cleaning service to clean my home?
When you hire a cleaning person/company - you are inviting someone into your home which is one of the biggest investments that you will ever make.  We recommend that you hire cleaning companies that have taken the time to consider your needs and safety incase of accidents or losses.
Anyone can gather some cleaners and a vacuum and call themselves a "cleaner".  However...only a professional will be able to provide you with proof of their liability insurance and bond.  You should work with those who take the time to learn the proper cleaning techniques for today's modern surface, as so many of them can be damaged by improper cleaning.


10)  How do I pay for my service and when?
"Payment is Due at the time of service or in advance"
*  by check - check payable to:  "CCMS" (short for Countrytime Cleaning & Maid Services)
*  by cash
*  by Money Order - payable to:  "CCMS"
*  by Credit Cards - coming soon


Please leave payment on the kitchen counter or table in a sealed envelope titled:  "CCMS"
A $36.00 fee is applied to all "returned" checks
For "first-time" or "one-time" cleanings -  we require pre-payment


11)  Do I have to sign a "Contract" for my services?
No.  We do have a Service Agreement for you to sign.  You are free to discontinue our service at any time.


12)  Do I need to provide any cleaning supplies or equipments?
No.  We provide all the necessary cleaning supplies and equipments that are needed to clean your home.  If you wish for us to us a specific cleaning product - all you need to do is have it out on the kitchen counter/table on the day of your schedule cleaning.


13)  What if I forgot that you were coming and locked you out of my home?
We depend on our customers to understand how important their business is to us.  We save your appointment space specifically for you and therefore turn other business away.  We will give all our clients a call or email them the day before their schedule cleaning to remind them of their cleaning appointment.  We charge $50.00 for lock outs.  That is why it's best that we have keys or codes.


14)  I have pets - will that be a problem?
Absolutely Not!  We are pet owners ourselves and love all types of pets.  We will treat them like our own.  We will like to know your pet's name(s) and if he/she has any favorite hang outs.  We want to be certain they are comfortable with us and that our cleaning techs are safe in their presence.  If you have any special instructions regarding your pet(s), we will make a note of it for future visits.


15)  Are you insured and bonded?
Yes.  Safety and protection is a top priority for us.  We are always looking out for our clients and our employees.
General Liability:
    - Covers any breakage or other damage caused by the cleaning company
    - General policy that covers virtually all potential liabilities
Certificate of Insurance:
    - A Certificate of Insurance shows that a company is covered by insurance.  If you want to verify that a company has coverage - it is important that you contact the insurance company to get proof of insurance.


16)  Can I trust your cleaning techs coming into my home?
Yes!  With Countrytime Cleaning & Maid Services (CCMS), you are protected.  Our employees are background checked, drug tested, bonded and insured.  The cleaning techs will always arrive at your home in a CCMS uniform and clearly marked car.  CCMS do not hire independent subcontractors.  Your belongings and property will be treated with the utmost care and respect.


17)  How long will it take the cleaning techs to clean my home?
The first initial cleaning is similar to a spring cleaning.  There are many first time tasks performed during this cleaning that requires extra time and attention.  It is not uncommon for us to spend two (2) or four (4) times longer than it will take on recurring visits.  Depending on the size and condition of your home, it could take anywhere from two (2) to five (5) hours on the first initial cleaning with a two person team.  Generally, it takes additional time to get the home up to CCMS standards.


18)  Will my cleaning price stay the same?
Yes.  Once you have established service with us, your price will remain the same, unless you request anything "special" to be done (see "special request" list).  However...at times, CCMS will increase its rates based on cost of living.


19)  What happens if my regular cleaning day falls on a Holiday?
CCMS recognizes holidays to allow our employees to spend time with their families.  We also recognize that only a well-rested, relaxed and happy employee can provide you with the Best possible service.  Therefore, we are closed on Federal Holidays that the school districts are closed.  We will notify you of any schedule changes well in advance either with a call or email.


 20)  What if I need to skip or cancel my cleaning service?
Please give us 24 business hours notice for your change in plans and we will promptly reschedule or cancel your cleaning service.


21)  What if I need some "extra" tasks or services?
We are not a Franchise - we can do what you need.  Please give us a call or email us at least three (3) business days in advance to make your special requests and we will quote you a price for the additional time.  The more advance notice you give us - we will be able to schedule the extra time needed for our cleaning techs to complete the special task(s).


22)  What we are unable to do:
Our cleaning techs do not climb higher than a 2-step kitchen ladder (you provide), clean inside china/curio hutches, toilets or sinks that appears to be clogged (unflushed or standing water), garages, dust or clean plates or any other items hung precariously on walls, clean up pet excrement, provide outside maintenance or childcare.


23)  What if someone in our family is ill/sick?
If someone in your family is sick, please contact our office and we will be happy to reschedule your cleaning.  It is important to protect our employees and their families.


24)  Will you reward me for my referrals?
Absolutely!  We are always looking to expand our family and rely upon you for good word and referrals.  For every referral that turns into a successful new account, you will receive one (1) "FREE HOME CLEANING" after completing three (3) consecutive cleanings of the new account.   
 
"or"    

When you refer us to someone and they use us for either a one-time cleaning or use us occasinally...you will get $25.00 off your next cleaning.


25)  What is something is damaged when my home is cleaned?
We treat your home with the Greatest Care!  However...our cleaning techs are human.  Should damage or breakage occur while we are cleaning your home, we will make every effert to have the item repaired, or replaced if it cannot be repaired.  Insurance claims will be filed when appropriate.  We are fully insured and bonded.


26)  Can I purchase your service for someone else?
Absolutely!  We have Gift Certificate Program which allows you to give the gift of a clean fresh home to a friend or a love one.  Our Gift Certificates are great ideas for weddings, new moms, new parents, grandparents, co-workers, your boss or just a way to say, "Thank You".


27)  How do I arrange access for you if I'm not home?
We suggest one of the following methods of arranging access, but we can accommodate virtually any arrangements that is convenient for you:
* Provide us with a key to keep in our key safe
* Leave a key for us in a specific location
* Provide us with a code for your garage door
* Leave a door unlocked
* Leave a key with a neighbor


28)  What is your policy concerning gratuities?
Our cleaning techs take pride in their work and provide top quality service out of respect for their company and clients.  Although gratuities are certainly appreciated, they are not required or expected.  Any gratuities may be given directly to your cleaning tech(s) or included in your payment.


29)  Do you provide references?
Yes.  We have many satisfied customers who would be delighted to share details about their experiences with you.  Simply ask us during your "in-home" consultation and we will email you a list of references and contact information afterwards.


30)  Holiday Gift Giving/Bonuses?
Gift giving and bonuses are again not expected but are always appreciated.


31)  Do you work Nights / Weekends / Holidays?
We do upon "Special Request" and "Advanced Notice" of at least a week in advance.  (Subject to Availability)


32)  How do I provide a feedback on my cleaning?
A few times a month, we will leave a "comment" form for you to give us your feedback.  You could also visit our website to let us know how things went.  We encourage you to take the time to complete and return the comment form or sent us an email.  The feedback from all our customers is essential to serving and providing you with better service.


If you have any concerns or questions regarding our services, please do not hesitate to do so.  Either email us at info@countrytimecleaning.com, call us at (301)752-7104 or visit our website at www.countrytimecleaning.com.

Countrytime Cleaning & Maid Services
 PO Box 1469
La Plata, MD 20646

Powered by Register.com