Free downloads
Cleanup Crew Vetting Checklist
Use this free checklist to compare cleanup crews side by side before you hire anyone. It helps you ask the right questions, track written estimates, and keep your clearout organized.
What's inside the checklist
This printable planner is made to help you compare crews for junk removal, estate cleanouts, and heavy-clutter or hoarding cleanup with less stress.
Inside, you'll find space to note:
- Basic job details, like address, access, stairs, parking, and what needs to go
- Crew details, including company name, contact person, service area, and availability
- License and insurance information for you to verify yourself
- What is included in the estimate, such as labor, hauling, disposal, donation drop-off, sweep-up, and extra fees
- Special handling notes for things like appliances, mattresses, paperwork, photos, or family keepsakes
- A simple side-by-side comparison section so you can review written estimates before choosing
If you want a general price baseline first, see typical costs. All pricing should be confirmed in writing with the crew before work starts.
- Built for side-by-side estimate comparison
- Helpful for single-item pickups, full truckloads, estate cleanouts, and discreet heavy-clutter jobs
How to use it
Start by writing down your job scope as clearly as you can. A little detail now can help you get more accurate written estimates later.
- List the main items or rooms involved
- Note access issues, like stairs, elevators, gates, or long carry distance
- Mark anything that needs special care, like documents, photos, heirlooms, or donation items
- Ask each crew the same questions so you can compare fairly
- Request the full price and scope in writing before any work starts
When you review estimates, look beyond the total price. Check what is actually included, how disposal is handled, whether cleanup is included, and whether extra charges may apply. Typical ranges can vary, for example a single item may run about $70-$150, a full truckload may be around $450-$800, and a whole-home or estate clearout may be about $800-$4,000+. These are typical ranges, not quotes.
For extra planning help, review how it works before you start calling crews.
- Compare the same scope across each estimate
- Verify license and insurance directly with the crew before hiring
Get matched with crews
If you do not want to search on your own, Clearway Match can help. We are a free matching service, not a cleanup company. We connect you with independent crews so you can compare written estimates and decide who to hire.
Share your contact info and job details, then review your options. For privacy and safety, only provide contact and job information. Do not share bank details, Social Security numbers, or other sensitive records.
If your situation involves heavy clutter or hoarding, you can ask for a discreet, compassionate approach that works at the person's pace. You can start here to get matched.
- Free to use
- You choose the crew after reviewing written estimates
This free checklist helps you compare cleanup crews, confirm details in writing, and choose the right fit for your clearout.
Common questions
Is this checklist really free?
Yes. This planner is free to use and meant to help you organize details, compare estimates, and ask better questions before hiring a crew.
Can this checklist help me compare estimates fairly?
Yes. It is designed for side-by-side comparison so you can track what each crew includes, what may cost extra, and whether the scope matches your job.
What should I ask every cleanup crew?
Ask whether they are licensed and insured, what the written estimate includes, how they handle disposal or donation drop-off, whether sweep-up is included, and what extra fees might apply for stairs, long carry distance, appliances, mattresses, or hazardous items. Verify license and insurance yourself before hiring.
Does Clearway Match do the cleanup?
No. Clearway Match is a free matching service. We do not haul, lift, or clean. We connect households with independent crews so you can compare written estimates and choose who to hire.
Can I use this for heavy clutter or hoarding cleanup?
Yes. The checklist can help you plan a discreet, respectful clearout and note any items that need extra care. Heavy clutter is not a moral failing, and many families prefer a slower, private process. If needed, you can also seek support from a qualified local professional.