Dr Carpet Consumer Checklist
10 Questions to Ask Before You Let a Carpet Cleaner Start
You do not need to be a carpet-cleaning expert to protect yourself. Ten clear questions can tell you whether the service, price and expectations are understood before the first machine enters your home.
You do not need to be a carpet-cleaning expert to protect yourself. Ten clear questions can tell you whether the service, price and expectations are understood before the first machine enters your home.
1. What exact cleaning service am I getting?
Ask whether the booking is basic steam, shampoo, deep cleaning or another process—and what that term means for this company.
2. What is the agreed price for the job I described?
Ask for the expected price based on your actual rooms, furniture or rugs—not only an advertised starting price.
3. Can you confirm the service and price in writing?
After booking, ask for a text or email that names the service and agreed price.
4. What could legitimately change that price?
Know in advance whether size, number of seats, severe staining, specialty treatment or another scope difference could affect the quote.
5. Is there a trip or cancellation fee if I decline onsite?
Ask before scheduling, not after the technician arrives.
6. Are stains and odor treatment included?
Do not assume a general cleaning includes specialty stain or urine treatment.
7. If you recommend an upgrade, why?
A technician should be able to explain what condition was found and why a different treatment is recommended.
8. How will the cleaning solution be extracted?
Ask about the actual cleaning and extraction process rather than relying only on words like “steam” or “shampoo.”
9. What drying time should I expect?
Drying varies by material, conditions and process. Ask what is normal for your job and what to do after the appointment.
10. Can I approve everything before you begin?
The final scope and price should be clear before the work starts. With Dr Carpet, the technician inspects first, explains any material difference and gets approval before proceeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to ask all ten questions?
Not necessarily. The checklist is designed to help you focus on the areas most likely to create misunderstanding: service, price, scope and expectations.
What is the most important question?
Ask what exact service you are getting and what you are expected to pay for the job you described.
What if the technician cannot explain an upgrade?
Do not feel pressured to approve a service you do not understand. Ask for a clear explanation and price before work begins.