How to Compare Quotes from Cleaning Companies Before Booking
- Think all cleaning quotes are the same? Find out what most people overlook before booking and how to avoid costly surprises.
How do you compare cleaning company quotes before making a booking?
To compare cleaning quotes properly, you need to look beyond the price. Check what’s included in each quote – such as the number of cleaning hours, whether supplies are provided, the number of cleaners, and if insurance or VAT is included. Only by ensuring you’re comparing the same type and scope of service can you judge which quote offers real value.
What should a UK cleaning quote include?
A UK cleaning quote often shows a price at the top, but the real value depends on the details behind it. To avoid surprises, always check exactly what is covered. The type of clean, how long it lasts, how many cleaners will attend, and whether supplies are provided all affect the total. A detailed quote shows a company takes your booking seriously and helps you understand the full cleaning cost breakdown.
Table of Contents
Understanding Pricing Models
Cleaning companies usually follow one of three pricing methods:
- Hourly rate: You pay for the time spent cleaning
- Flat fee: A fixed price for completing the job
- Per room pricing: Common for deep cleans or end of tenancy work
Agencies tend to charge more than individuals because their services include vetted and insured cleaners. A domestic cleaning pricing guide can help you understand these differences and choose the model that fits your situation.
Standard Inclusions and What to Watch For
A clear quote should state:
- Total hours of cleaning
- Number of cleaners attending
- Whether equipment and products are provided
Often missing are:
- Travel surcharges
- VAT inclusion
- Extra costs for unusual requests
You should always ask to see the full quote structure or request a cleaning quote format that breaks down each element. This helps you compare services with confidence.
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How much does cleaning cost across the UK?
Cleaning rates can shift based on your location and the service type. Knowing average prices helps you avoid overpaying or falling for deals that seem too good to be true.
Common UK Pricing Averages
- Regular domestic cleaning: £15 to £25 per hour
- Deep or tenancy cleaning: £150 to £350, depending on size and requirements
Regional Variations in Pricing
- London and South East: Higher costs in areas like Richmond and Kingston
- North and Midlands: Lower rates, often from local independents
Sites like Bark and Checkatrade help benchmark rates. A cleaning quote estimator can also give you a quick sense of how your property size and task list affect costs.
How can you compare cleaning quotes fairly?
Comparing quotes only works when the details match. If one quote includes different tasks or hours, you are not comparing fairly.
What Like for Like Really Means
Each quote should cover:
- Same cleaning hours
- Same number of cleaners
- Same task list
- Who brings supplies and equipment
Whether you book weekly visits or a one off deep clean service, you should know exactly what you are agreeing to. This allows you to truly compare cleaning quotes on a like for like basis.
Pro Tip: Always ask for a breakdown. A cleaning quote that lacks detail is a red flag. Request a full scope list with timing and supplies.

Kevin DeSousa
Director
How to Use Quote Templates and Comparison Tools
Using the same checklist for every company helps you get consistent info. Comparison tables and templates keep everything aligned and help standardise the service scope.
This approach helps you avoid missing details or making the wrong choice based on incomplete information. A well formatted quote template ensures you gather all necessary information from each provider.
Book with South West London’s dependable DBS checked cleaning team.
See ServicesWhat should you ask before booking a cleaner?
It is always better to ask upfront than face issues later. The right questions can reveal how professional and prepared the company really is.
Key Trust and Quality Questions
- Are all staff DBS checked and insured?
- Do cleaners bring their own equipment and products?
- How do you ensure the same standard every time?
Professional cleaning teams typically follow strict protocols to deliver consistent results. Asking about vetting and training helps ensure your peace of mind.
Questions That Clarify the Quote
- What if the job runs longer than expected?
- Are there cancellation or rescheduling fees?
- Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?
These questions matter. Our quotes include all these answers so you are never left wondering. This is part of our commitment to cleaner vetting, quote transparency, and customer satisfaction.
Pro Tip: Use a quote comparison checklist. Create or download a simple table to line up offers side by side so you’re not caught out later.

Laura Higgins
Cleaning Manager
What red flags can signal a bad cleaning quote?
Some quotes look great at first, but hide issues that cost you later. Here is how to protect yourself.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Loose terms like “up to 3 hours” with no follow up info
- No clear list of what is being cleaned
- No mention of guarantees, insurance, or supplies
These are all signs of a quote to service mismatch that can lead to disputes or substandard results.
Common Pitfalls When Booking
- No refunds or re clean policy
- No real reviews or company background
- Use of unknown subcontractors
Always look for companies that share reviews, insurance policies, and transparent terms. Reliable cleaners will include DBS cleaner verification and comply with consumer protection standards.
10 Questions to Ask Before You Say Yes
Are your cleaners DBS checked?
Do you provide public liability insurance?
Is VAT included in this quote?
Will you bring your own supplies and equipment?
What exactly is included in this clean?
How many hours does the service cover?
What if the job runs over time?
Are there cancellation or late rescheduling fees?
Do you offer a re clean or satisfaction guarantee?
How do you handle complaints or disputes?
T&M Cleaning Services covers South West London including Cheam, Epsom, Wimbledon and Purley with flexible and trustworthy cleaning. Visit www.tandmclean.co.uk or call 07477 957 579 to request your quote or book online today.
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