Preparing for Your Housekeeper's First Day in France
Everything to prepare for a housekeeper's first day in France, from the practical to the admin side.
Quick answer: for a smooth first day, prepare keys and access, equipment and products, a prioritised task list, a walkthrough of the home and your contact details for any questions. Set aside time to align on expectations.
A well-prepared first day builds a trusting relationship. Here's the checklist.
Before they arrive
- Keys, access code, badge or intercom.
- Products and equipment tidy and accessible.
- A clear task list, with priorities.
On the day
- Do a room-by-room walkthrough.
- Point out preferences (products, delicate surfaces, pets).
- Share your contact details and what to do if something comes up.
After the first session
Have a quick catch-up to adjust the pace and priorities. Formalise the hours and pay in the contract and declare via CESU.
Official sources
Conclusion
A few minutes of preparation saves a lot of back-and-forth and sets up a calm working relationship.
See also
- Interview questions — choose well up front.
- How many hours — size the sessions.
FAQ
Should I be there on the first day?
Ideally yes, at least at the start, to show the home, the products and the priorities.
How do I handle keys?
Hand over keys once trust is established; note it, and use a labelled set with no address on it.
Who provides the cleaning products?
Usually the family provides the products and equipment (vacuum, cloths, etc.). Leave everything accessible and share your preferences from the first session.