What The Maids does and how their pricing works
The Maids is a residential cleaning franchise that operates in multiple states across the United States. They send a team of cleaners to your home on a schedule you choose — typically weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly — to handle interior cleaning tasks. Unlike hiring an independent cleaner, you work with a company that handles scheduling, background checks, and customer service through a central office.
Pricing varies by location, home size, and the specific services you request. The Maids does not publish a single national rate; instead, each franchise location sets its own prices based on local market conditions and operating costs. You will need to contact your local Maids franchise for a quote, which usually involves a phone call or online form where you describe your home's square footage and which rooms need cleaning.
Most locations offer an initial cleaning that costs more than regular visits, since the first appointment involves deeper work. Subsequent cleanings are typically less expensive because the home is already in a maintained state. Some franchises offer discounts if you commit to a longer service contract or pay upfront for multiple visits.
Key Takeaways
- The Maids sends a team of cleaners to your home on a recurring schedule you choose, with pricing that varies by franchise location and home size.
- You will receive a custom quote based on your specific home rather than a standard national price, so contacting your local franchise directly is necessary.
- The first cleaning typically costs more than ongoing visits because it involves deeper cleaning of a home that has not been professionally maintained.
- The Maids handles employee background checks and training, so you do not hire or manage individual cleaners yourself.
- Service frequency, scope of work, and payment terms can all be negotiated when you contact a franchise location.
How to get a quote and schedule your first cleaning
Start by finding the Maids franchise that serves your area. The Maids website has a location finder where you enter your zip code to see which franchise operates near you. Once you identify your local office, you can call them directly or fill out an online form requesting a quote.
When you contact them, be ready to describe your home: square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and which areas you want cleaned. Some franchises ask whether you have pets, since that affects cleaning time and approach. You may also be asked about any special requests — for example, whether you want them to focus on certain rooms or avoid certain products due to allergies or sensitivities.
The franchise will provide a quote, usually over the phone or via email within a day or two. If you decide to move forward, you will sign a service agreement that outlines the frequency of visits, what is included in each cleaning, the price, and payment terms. Some locations require a deposit or first-visit payment before scheduling your initial appointment.
What The Maids includes in a standard cleaning visit
A typical Maids cleaning covers interior spaces: dusting surfaces, vacuuming floors, cleaning bathrooms (toilets, sinks, mirrors, and tubs or showers), and tidying common areas. The team usually works room by room and takes roughly two to four hours depending on your home's size and the depth of cleaning requested.
What is not typically included in standard service: laundry, dishes left in the sink, organizing closets or drawers, outdoor cleaning, or deep work like carpet shampooing or window washing. If you want these services, ask your local franchise whether they offer them as add-ons and what the extra cost would be.
The Maids sends the same team to your home each visit when possible, which means the cleaners become familiar with your home's layout and your preferences. If your regular team is unavailable, the franchise will send a substitute team trained to the same standards.
Payment methods and what happens if you need to cancel
Payment terms depend on your franchise location. Most accept credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers. Some require payment before the visit; others bill you after. Ask about this when you receive your quote so there are no surprises on your first appointment day.
If you need to cancel or reschedule a cleaning, contact your local franchise as soon as possible. Most locations have a cancellation policy — for example, they may require 24 or 48 hours' notice to avoid a charge. Read your service agreement carefully to understand what notice period applies to you and whether you will be charged if you cancel within that window.
If you are unhappy with a cleaning, report the issue to your franchise office rather than to the individual cleaners. The franchise can send the team back to touch up problem areas or discuss adjustments to the service plan. This is one advantage of using a company rather than an independent cleaner: you have a business to hold accountable.
Background checks and what to expect from the cleaning team
The Maids conducts background checks on all employees before they enter customers' homes. This is a standard practice across the franchise system, though the specific screening process may vary slightly by location. You should receive information about this when you sign up, and you can ask your franchise what checks they perform if you want details.
Cleaners arrive in uniform and typically bring their own supplies and equipment, though you can request that they use products you provide if you have sensitivities or preferences. They will have keys or access codes to your home if you are not present during the cleaning. Discuss security and access with your franchise before your first visit.
Differences between The Maids and other cleaning services
The Maids is a franchise system, which means each location is independently owned but operates under the same brand standards. This differs from a national chain with corporate-owned locations, and it differs from hiring an independent cleaner or a small local company. The franchise model means consistency in training and procedures, but also means prices and service details vary by location.
Compared to hiring an independent cleaner, The Maids offers the advantage of a business structure: you have a company phone number to call, a service agreement, and recourse if something goes wrong. The trade-off is that franchise cleaning typically costs more than an independent cleaner, and you have less flexibility to customize the service beyond what the franchise offers.
Some people prefer The Maids because they do not want to manage a solo cleaner's schedule or handle tax paperwork. Others prefer independent cleaners because the cost is lower or the service feels more personal. Your choice depends on your budget, your home's needs, and whether you value the structure and accountability of a company.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to sign a long-term contract with The Maids?
Contract length varies by franchise location. Some require a minimum commitment of three or six months; others allow month-to-month service. Ask about contract terms when you get your quote, and read the agreement before you sign. If flexibility is important to you, ask whether your local franchise offers a no-contract option.
What if I want to change my cleaning schedule or cancel?
Contact your local franchise office to discuss changes. Most can adjust your frequency or pause service temporarily. Cancellation policies vary, so check your agreement for notice requirements and any associated fees. Giving as much notice as possible usually results in fewer complications.
Can The Maids clean my windows or do carpet shampooing?
Standard service does not include these tasks, but many franchise locations offer them as paid add-ons. Ask your local office what specialty services they provide and what the cost would be. Some franchises partner with other companies to offer these services.
What should I do if the cleaning does not meet my expectations?
Call your franchise office and describe the problem. Most will send the team back to address specific areas at no extra charge, or they will discuss adjustments to your service plan. Document any issues with photos if possible, so the franchise understands exactly what needs attention.
Is The Maids insured if something gets damaged in my home?
The Maids carries liability insurance, and franchise locations are required to maintain coverage. If damage occurs, report it to your franchise office when ready with photos and details. Your franchise will work with their insurance to address the claim. Ask about their insurance coverage and claims process when you sign up.