What should I ask about a cottage rental portfolio’s cleaning crews?

Cleaning is the engine of a cottage portfolio, because properties sit apart and turnovers are tight. Ask who builds the schedule, how crews learn about a same-day arrival, and who checks the work. Find out whether there is a standard checklist for each cottage or whether crews simply know their routes.

Then ask about the relationship. Are the crews on the payroll, hired as contractors or part of an outside firm? Is there a written agreement? Ask what happens when a crew is unavailable, who covers, and what the owner pays for rework after a bad review. Be sure to ask whether any crew has told the seller they would leave after a sale.

Visit a few cottages after turnover if you can, and read reviews for repeated comments about cleanliness. Ask your lawyer to review contractor arrangements and whether they transfer to you. You may need to introduce yourself to each crew lead early, since their goodwill is part of what you are buying. Ask finally about supplies: who buys linens and cleaning products, where they are stored for each cottage and how restocking is tracked. Gaps there show up as poor reviews even when the crews themselves work hard.

Key takeaways

• Find out whether cleaners are employees, contractors or an outside firm.
• Ask how same-day turnovers are scheduled, checked and covered.
• Meet crew leads before closing and ask whether they will stay.