Even though money is tight, my health is poor and I need to hire a monthly cleaning service. I’ve always done my own housework so I’m not sure what to do when deciding on a particular company. — Hilda Housework

Dear Hilda: One New Year’s Resolution all consumers should strive to keep is to always self-protect when hiring any service professional, such as house cleaners, contractors, painters, lawn care, and so forth. First and foremost and as I’ve urged in the past, ask for the current business license. Way too many fly-by-nighters try to take advantage of us, and a proper license is the best way to immediately sift the chaff from the wheat. (I might add here that some states don’t require a business license so, in those cases, a prospective customer needs to be extra cautious.)

Secondly, ask for proof of insurance. Not only should the company or individual provide you with a copy of the insurance certificate, but also you should verify its good standing by contacting the insurance company. (Be aware that general liability insurance usually covers a contractor for accidents that occur on the job; however, be sure to check the exclusions that don’t shield this person and his employees.)

Make sure you obtain a contract or agreed-to plan. Often we tend to overlook the official contract when dealing with some companies — a tree service, for example, or a cleaning service in your case. Anytime someone sets foot on your property for a commissioned job, it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure all goes according to plan. (Obviously, a plan/contract must first exist before it can go “accordingly.”) With respect to your question, while interviewing a business owner or manager, be specific as to whether you’ll be a “tough” customer: white-gloving the lampshades, for instance. A firm price for cleaning your home, with details about each room, is an essential clause written into the contract; otherwise, you might find on down the road that deodorizing the microwave costs an extra $2.00. Additionally, the contract should specify morning or afternoon visits, if you prefer one over the other.

Before you sign the contract, make sure it contains a termination clause. If an employee consistently ignores the baseboards or an item is broken every few visits, then you need recourse to send these folks on their way without fear of a subsequent legal encounter.

Editor’s Note: Ellen Phillips is a retired English teacher who has written two consumer-oriented books. Her Consumer Watch column appears on Saturdays in the Business section of the paper. An expanded version is at www.timesfreepress.com under Local Business. E-mail her at consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com