Housekeeping services often charge more when pets are present for several valid reasons, and many people consider this extra charge to be fair, but some pet owners may consider this rather unfair.
Housekeeping surcharge on hourly rates is more expensive when pets are present for these reasons:
Increased Hair and Dander: Pets, especially dogs and cats, shed a significant amount of hair and dander. This gets everywhere – on carpets, upholstery, furniture, and even in the air. Removing pet hair requires more intensive vacuuming, dusting, and specialized tools (like lint rollers or pet hair removers) and takes more time and effort than a standard clean.
Odour Elimination: Pets can leave behind noticeable odors, even if they are generally clean. These odors can embed themselves in carpets, fabrics, and even walls. Housekeepers may need to use specific odor-eliminating products, air purifiers, or even perform deeper cleaning techniques like steam cleaning to neutralize these smells.
Stains and Accidents: Accidents happen, and pets can leave behind urine, feces, vomit, or slobber stains. These require immediate and often specialized cleaning to prevent permanent damage and lingering odors. Enzymatic cleaners are often necessary to break down pet waste effectively.
More Intensive Cleaning of Pet-Specific Items: Pet beds, toys, and food/water bowls can harbor dirt, bacteria, and allergens. Housekeepers may need to wash or disinfect these items, adding to the overall workload.
Allergen Control: Pet dander is a common allergen. For the benefit of future occupants or even the cleaning staff themselves, a more thorough cleaning focused on allergen removal (e.g., using HEPA filter vacuums, wiping down all surfaces) may be necessary.
Additional Wear and Tear: Pets can cause more wear and tear on a home's surfaces, from scratches on floors or furniture to general dirt accumulation from paws. While this isn't always directly addressed by a "pet fee," it contributes to the overall need for more frequent or intensive cleaning.
Time and Labor: All of the above factors translate directly into more time and labor for the housekeepers. If they are paid hourly, more time means a higher cost. If they charge a flat rate, they need to account for the increased effort.
Is it fair to charge more?
Generally, yes, it is considered fair to charge more for housekeeping services when pets are present. Here’s why:
Cost of resources: The additional cleaning supplies, specialized equipment (like heavy-duty vacuums designed for pet hair), and sometimes even cleaning solutions for stains and odors, cost more.
Time is money: As mentioned, the extra time and effort required to clean a pet-occupied home directly impacts the cleaner's income. They have a finite amount of time in a day, and if one job takes longer, it reduces the number of other jobs they can take on.
Specialized skill/knowledge: Dealing with pet messes and odors can require specific techniques and knowledge to ensure a truly clean and fresh environment.
Risk of damage: While not always factored into a standard pet cleaning surcharge, pets can cause damage (scratches, chewing, etc.) that may require professional repair or replacement, adding to the overall cost of maintaining a property.
Transparency: Reputable cleaning services will typically be upfront about their pet surcharges, explaining the reasons behind them. This allows clients to make an informed decision.
In essence, the extra charge for housekeeping with pets is a reflection of the increased workload, specialized tools, and potential issues that come with maintaining a clean environment alongside furry companions.
