I have an RFID tag and a Zipato RFID tag reader near the front door, when she uses that it sets the Mode to Cleaning in Progress. And the house behaves accordingly. Then when she leaves, she presses Away and scans the tag again. Based on who is home (or not) it sets the mode to Away again.
I have her use it even if I'm here or not, as she triggers all sorts when cleaning the Tablets knocking around 
Zipato RFID here Although I believe they are in the US too.
Driver here
