Excessive Trash Charges

Overview: BA House Cleaning aims to maintain clear expectations regarding trash removal services. While we do take out trash as part of our cleaning services, there are specific guidelines and charges associated with excessive trash amounts.

Policy on Trash Removal

1. Included in Standard Service:
   • Each client is allowed one trash bag to be taken out, with a maximum of two trash bags included in the service.
2. Excessive Trash Definition:
   • Any amount beyond the two-bag limit is considered excessive trash and will incur additional charges.
3. What We Do and Do Not Do:
   • We DO:
     • Take out up to the maximum of two trash bags.
   • We DO NOT:
     • Break down boxes.
     • Take out recycling materials. Clients are responsible for handling these items.

Handling Excessive Trash

1. Determining Excessive Trash Charges:
   • Cleaning Technicians (CTs) must assess the extra time required to handle the excessive trash.
   • Round the estimated extra time to the nearest 15-minute increment.
   • Example:
     • If the CT needs an additional 20 minutes, round up to 30 minutes (0.5 hours).
2. Calculating the Additional Charge:
   • Use the client’s job rate to determine the hourly cost.
     • Formula: Cost per hour = Job cost ÷ Allowed hours
   • Multiply the hourly rate by the extra time required (in hours).
   • Example:
     • Hourly rate: $80/hour
     • Additional time: 15 minutes = 0.25 hours
     • Charge: 0.25 x $80 = $20
3. Clear Communication:
   • Before proceeding, communicate the details of the extra charge to the client:
     • Specify the number of extra trash bags (e.g., “Up to 5 bags”).
     • Provide a breakdown of the extra charge based on the time needed.
   • Include these details in the Rate Modification Notes in MaidCentral or the relevant system.
4. Adjusting the Rate if Necessary:
   • If the trash amount increases further (e.g., from 5 to 8 bags), reassess the extra time required and adjust the rate accordingly.

Steps for Cleaning Technicians (CTs):

1. Identify the excessive trash amount and estimate the additional time needed.
2. Communicate the time estimate to the office team for calculation.
3. Ensure the client is informed of the extra charge and agrees to it before proceeding.

Example Scenarios:

1. Scenario 1:
   • Client has 4 extra trash bags.
   • CT estimates an additional 15 minutes (0.25 hours).
   • Client’s hourly rate: $80/hour.
   • Charge: 0.25 x $80 = $20.
2. Scenario 2:
   • Client has 8 extra trash bags.
   • CT estimates an additional 45 minutes (0.75 hours).
   • Client’s hourly rate: $70/hour.
   • Charge: 0.75 x $70 = $52.50.

Key Notes:

• Always ensure clear communication with the client regarding extra charges.
• Document the details of the extra charge, including the number of bags and time required, in the client’s job notes.
• Do not proceed with excessive trash removal without the client’s agreement to the extra charge.

By following this process, we maintain transparency with clients and ensure fair compensation for additional work.