In today's market, there seems to be an abundance of businesses that specialize in cleaning in one form or another. The cast of characters will vary from highly-trained professionals and capable companies to one-night operations.

It's very difficult to find the right company that will make it their jog to satisfy your individual cleaning needs. If you find yourself in this situation, please consider the following before you hire a company:

1. Find out if they maintain certifications in professional societies. Most societies require a certain amount of education, knowledge testing and minimum amount of time in the field, usually five years. This verification usually assures a certain amount of professionalism.

2. Find out if they are members of local associations, e.g. Better Business Bureau, chamber of commerce, etc.

3. Get proof of insurance, e.g. liability insurance of at least $500,000 and workman's compensation. My company, for example, carries a $2 million general liability policy, $5,000 janitorial bond and workman's compensation insurance.

4. Have them put in writing exactly what they are going to do for you and what their fees are for their service. Anyone who has been in business very long knows how long it will take to clean something and costs associated with the service. It should be noted that fire, flood, crime scene and meth lab clean-ups are going to be fairly expensive because of the specialized type of cleaning that is required. Also, the time to finish the project may vary depending on conditions found at the property. One of these jobs can take from several days to several months. Remember Murphy's Law: Anything can happen during a protracted clean-up.

5. Find out what their personal background is like. Are they a local company? Where did they initially learn their skills, e.g. military, apprenticeship, etc.

6. Don't open your door to just anyone. They should have identification, business cards and literature showing they are a solidly-based company. Remember, your safety and security is the most important thing.

7. Your satisfaction should be their guarantee. If you are not happy with what they have done, they should come back promptly and complete the job to your satisfaction.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper, fire, water, and mold inspection & remediation contractor. Ed is the CEO of Northwest Executive & Environmental Services, LLC. NWES specializes in commercial, residential, construction and crime scene/meth lab clean-up.