If you are employing a cleaner from an agency, ensure that you have researched their background completely and ask to see their licence. If you intend to employ an independent cleaner ask for a reference and make sure you check it up. Expect your cleaner to ask for one too. Before you make a formal agreement, try to decide if you would get on with each other. It won’t benefit anyone if you can’t stand the sight of each other. If you trust your cleaner, show them that you do by giving them a set of keys. If you don’t, it is probably time to reconsider the appointment. Remember that, by law, you must confirm any complaints in writing to your employee. Putting up with poor behaviour, even for a short time, is an indication of acceptance.