How often - once a fortnight. My previous cleaner came every week but I felt the house didn't need that thorough going over every single week if that makes sense? So opted for a good fortnightly clean instead.

How long - three hours.

What they do - 3 bedroom 2.5 bathroom open plan house, all floors including moping, both bathrooms and toilets, wipes down the laundry, cleans the kitchen surfaces, mirrors, dusting/wiping down furniture. I do a big tidy up so she just has to clean.

Are we home or out - it depends on the day, I often leave the house with the boys as it's hard keeping Moo from dragging all his toys out! Failing that I try to be outside, last time we were painting the window frames!

Key - I'm not comfortable leaving a key or giving ours a key but it's not an issue as she comes early, I'm always home to let her in. Nothing against our cleaner of course! She lets herself out and locks the door when she goes if we're not back.