Do I need regular service?
We offer housekeepers 40+ hours per week to occasional
service. Because the vast majority of our clients have so
little time for themselves, most need service weekly or
bi-weekly, regardless of the size of their home.
How much service do I need?
The
initial service we recommend will be based on our 20 years
of experience, and the conversation with you. A more accurate
estimate of length and frequency will come from your regular
housekeeper once they become acclimated with your home.
The nice thing about the service is that we are very
flexible and can adjust based on changing needs. Just call
the office to book extra time for the oven, mini-blinds,
party help, etc.
Will
I get the same housekeeper each time?
If you use the service at least bi-weekly our goal is to
continue to send you the same housekeeper. However, should
a change occur due to your housekeeper needing personal
time off, you will be notified by the office, and a substitute
is guaranteed. Because turnover does happen, our most satisfied
clients have found that the right housekeeper is much more
important than the day. We will always suggest a "senior
housekeeper" vs. a "Friday".
How
can I get the most for my money?
Use a priority list! Every client's needs are different.
We have found that 10 minutes of effort preparing a standard
list (of which you then make several copies) saves time
and disappointments later on. We want the housekeepers to
clean what you want. Making a list gives your housekeeper
a job description of your personal needs and priorities,
merely leave a short note if priorities change
Are there any limitations?
Not
really, YOU make the list! The housekeepers will do anything
that they are physically capable of doing within the time
that you have scheduled. The few exceptions: they are not
professionals at hardwood floors, carpet cleaning, and child
care. We also want to avoid climbing ladders and moving
heavy objects. Additionally, some housekeepers are better
than others at certain projects or events. Initially we
will try to match you to the right housekeeper based on
your current needs, if things change, simply call the office!
Who provides supplies and
equipment?
Normally, the homeowner provides supplies and equipment.
This helps keep cost down, and most homes have particular
needs. If you do need the housekeeper to provide supplies
and/or equipment, let us know and we will work it out.
What should I do if there
is a problem with the service?
You will find a person, not an answering machine, in the
office Monday through Friday. While we always do our best
to match you to the right housekeeper the first time, no
two client's have identical needs. We will follow up anytime
there is a new housekeeper in your home. Please help us
remain a consistently good referral agency by letting us
know if you encounter a problem with your service. Customer
service is our #1 priority and all services are guaranteed.
Who should I notify if I
need to postpone or reschedule my service?
Please contact the office at least Two Business Days prior
to your service. For most housekeepers, this is their only
source of income. Without two business days notice from
you, we cannot reschedule them with another client. They,
therefore, have no income for that time. If you are unable
to give two business days notice, there will be a $25.00
service charge.
How do I pay for the service?
For your convenience, you have the choice of paying by check
or cash the day of service. We also have a 'month in advance'
prepay arrangement with some clients; call our office for
details.
Am I protected?
Our
theft protection policy protects you up to $3000 upon conviction.
Criminal backgrounds and references are checked on
all housekeepers prior to our referral to you. If there
are any problems, please notify the office immediately.
As Independent Contractors, the housekeepers are responsible
for any damage due to their actions.
Pets/Animals?
As a friendly reminder, please ensure that all pets are
secured so neither your housekeeper, nor your pet run away!
Certainly, the Housekeeper will use the utmost care in protecting
your pet's safety while in your home; however neither the
Housekeeper, nor the Agency, can be responsible for unsecured
pets.
What
about taxes?
As You Like It is not the employer of the domestic worker
referred to you. If you spend more than $1,000 per quarter
for individuals performing domestic services, the domestic
worker may be your employee or may be an independent contractor
depending on the relationship you have with him or her.
For additional information call the office or contact your
local employment development department and the Internal
Revenue Service.
Free
Service
As You Like It rewards current clients who refer
others to our service. Once your 'referral' has used our
service twice within a 4 week period, contact us for a FREE
credit certificate. It doesn't get any simpler than that!
Gift
Certificates
With today's busy life styles, As You Like It Housekeeping
Gift Certificates offer a welcome and unique gift for friends,
relatives or business associates. Call your local office
and give that special someone a wonderful treat for any
Holiday occasion or to just say "Thank You!"