Why a briefing helps
Turnover cleaners work fast, and an odor problem needs a different order and more time than a normal clean. Without a briefing, a cleaner may start laundry before photographing evidence, use a strong fragrance to finish on time, or skip the curtains because they are not on the usual list. A short sheet sent before they arrive sets expectations and saves a second visit.
Fill in the sheet in a few minutes and send it as a message or attach it to the turnover task.
Briefing sheet
| Item | Fill in |
|---|---|
| What was reported and by whom | Example: last guest messaged that bedroom 2 smells of smoke |
| Rooms needing extra work | |
| Photos to take before cleaning | Every room, sills, deck, ashtrays, trash |
| Textiles to bag and wash or send out | Curtains, duvet, pillows, throws in affected rooms |
| Surfaces to wash | Walls and ceiling in affected rooms, blinds, fixtures |
| Products to use and to avoid | No strong fragrance; stone-safe cleaner on counters |
| Filter to change | Size and location |
| Extra time approved | Hours |
| Report back by | Time, with a smell rating for each room |
Questions the cleaner should answer when done
- What did each room smell like before and after cleaning: none, faint or strong?
- Was any evidence found, and where are the photos?
- Which textiles were washed, sent out or set aside?
- Is anything left that needs a professional or more time?
- Were any supplies used up or items damaged?
Common questions
Should the cleaner contact the guest directly?
No. Keep guest communication with the host through the platform so the record stays in one place.
How detailed should the briefing be?
Short enough to read in a minute. The table covers what the cleaner needs to know; add a sentence only for anything unusual, such as a delicate surface or a specific item to set aside.
Should the briefing go to a cleaning company or the individual cleaner?
Send it to whoever will actually be in the unit, and copy the company if they schedule the work, so the instructions reach the person cleaning.
What if the cleaner finds something not in the briefing?
Ask them to stop, photograph it and message the host before going further, especially for evidence that may matter for a claim.
General information for LoHi, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.