When cleaners are blamed.
WHY IT MATTERS
Cleaners are the default suspects when anything goes missing.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH IN ADVANCE
A process for investigating That accusations require evidence What the contract says about liability
WHAT TO DO WHEN AN ALLEGATION IS MADE
Take it seriously
Establish the facts: what, when, who had access
Check attendance records Check whether the area was actually cleaned that day
WHY ACCESS MATTERS
Cleaners are frequently not the only people with access.
WHAT TO AVOID
Dismissing the allegation Accusing staff without evidence Dismissing staff to satisfy a client
WHY THAT LAST POINT
It is unjust, it produces claims, and it tells remaining staff they are disposable.
WHAT TO DO IF EVIDENCE EXISTS
Follow proper process, and involve authorities where appropriate.
WHAT TO DO IF IT DOES NOT
Say so, respectfully, with what you established.
WHAT TO PROPOSE
Measures reducing future risk: supervision, restricted areas, securing valuables.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH WITH CLIENTS
That valuables should be secured.
WHY IN WRITING
It is reasonable, and it reduces both incidents and allegations.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT DAMAGE
Inspect, establish cause, and be honest.
WHAT CAUSES CLEANING DAMAGE
Wrong product on a surface Excessive water Equipment contact Moving items
WHAT TO TRAIN
Which products go on which surfaces.
WHAT TO RECORD
Every allegation and its outcome.
