Questions
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before booking your first clean.
Are you licensed and insured? +
Yes. Chicago Surface and Shine is fully licensed and insured, and every crew member is background-checked before stepping into your home or office.
Do I need to provide cleaning supplies or equipment? +
No. We bring our own equipment and eco-friendly cleaning products to every job. If you'd prefer we use a specific product, just let us know when you book.
How do you price a cleaning? +
Pricing depends on the size of the space, the type of clean, and how often you'd like service. Tell us about your space using the quote form on our Contact page and we'll follow up with a clear, no-obligation price.
What areas do you serve? +
We serve Chicago and the surrounding neighborhoods, including the Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and more — see our full service area on the Services page.
What if I'm not happy with the clean? +
We offer a satisfaction guarantee. If something's missed, let us know within 24 hours and we'll come back to make it right at no extra charge.
How often should I schedule standard cleaning? +
Most clients choose weekly or bi-weekly visits to maintain consistent cleanliness. Monthly service is also available for spaces that don’t require frequent upkeep.
What’s included in a standard cleaning service? +
Services cover surface dusting, kitchen counter and appliance cleaning, bathroom sanitization, flooring care (vacuuming/mopping), trash removal, and high-touch point wiping.
Can I customize what’s included in my standard clean? +
Yes, we can adjust tasks based on your needs, such as focusing more on certain areas or adding light organizing.
How long does a standard cleaning take?+
It depends on the size of your space – a typical 1,500 sq ft home takes 2–3 hours, while a small office usually takes 1–2 hours.
What’s the difference between standard and deep cleaning?+
Deep cleaning goes beyond surface-level care to address hard-to-reach areas, built-up grime, and items not included in regular cleans – like inside appliances, baseboards, and window tracks.
How often should I book a deep clean?+
We recommend quarterly or semi-annual deep cleans for most homes and offices. New spaces or those with heavy use may benefit from more frequent service.
Do I need to be home during a deep clean?+
You don’t need to be present – we just require secure access to the property. We’ll send you a detailed report with photos once the service is complete.
Can deep cleaning help with allergies or poor indoor air quality?+
Yes, deep cleaning removes dust, pet dander, and allergens that accumulate over time, significantly improving air quality and reducing allergy symptoms.
Will deep cleaning damage my furniture or surfaces?+
No, our team uses appropriate products and techniques for different materials to protect your property while delivering thorough results.
Do you comply with industry-specific health and safety regulations?+
Yes, our commercial cleaning protocols are tailored to meet requirements for healthcare, food service, education, and other regulated sectors.
How is pricing determined for commercial cleaning?+
Pricing is based on space size, service frequency, specific tasks needed, and any industry-specific requirements. We provide free, detailed estimates with no hidden fees.
Do you offer emergency cleaning services for businesses?+
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency support for issues like water damage, spills, or last-minute client visits.
Do you clean empty spaces only, or can you clean around boxes and furniture?+
We recommend clearing the space as much as possible, but we can work around items if needed – just let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.
Can you schedule move-in/move-out cleaning on short notice?+
We prioritize move-related cleans and often have availability for same-week or even same-day service when possible.
What’s included in a move-in/move-out clean that’s not in standard cleaning?+
Services include cleaning inside cabinets/drawers, wiping down walls and baseboards, cleaning window tracks, and removing any leftover debris or trash.
Do you offer discounts for combining move-in and move-out cleaning?+
Yes, we provide special rates for clients who book both services, or for those moving within the Chicago area.
How quickly can you turn around a property between guests for an Airbnb Clean?+
It depends, but we typically complete turnovers in 3–5 hours, allowing you to book back-to-back stays without gaps.
How do I reschedule or cancel a cleaning appointment?+
You can reschedule or cancel online, by phone, or via email – we ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to avoid late fees.