What is a cleaning service contract?
A cleaning service contract is an agreement between a cleaner or cleaning company and a client that sets out where and how often cleaning happens, which tasks are included, what each visit costs and who is responsible when something goes wrong. It works for house cleaning, apartment cleaning, offices, shops and other commercial spaces.
When to use it
Use it whenever you start regular cleaning for a new client, or for a larger one-off job such as an end-of-tenancy or post-renovation clean. A written agreement is particularly helpful when you hold keys or alarm codes, when the client pays per visit, or when you employ staff who clean on your behalf.
Key clauses explained
- Services and tasks – a clear task list sets expectations. The template also lists common exclusions, such as inside ovens and exterior windows, which can be added as paid extras.
- Supplies – who brings products and equipment, plus allergies and surface-care instructions.
- Access and keys – how keys and codes are kept safe and when they are returned.
- Cancellations and lockouts – a notice period and a fee for late cancellations or when you cannot get in, balanced by a promise to reschedule your own cancellations for free.
- Damage and breakage – the cleaner pays for damage caused by its negligence, but not for wear and tear or items that were already faulty.
- Satisfaction guarantee – a free re-clean if something was missed, reported within 24 hours.
Residential vs commercial cleaning
| Residential | Commercial | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical frequency | Weekly, every two weeks or monthly | Daily on business days or weekly |
| Access | Spare key or client at home | Access card, alarm code, out-of-hours entry |
| Extra points to add | Pets, valuables, laundry | Restroom supplies, waste rules, site safety induction |
How to use this template
- Enter your business name and the client's name, then the address of the property to be cleaned.
- Choose the frequency and write the usual day and time window.
- List the tasks included in each visit, room by room if that helps.
- Enter the price per visit, who provides supplies, the cancellation notice and the late cancellation or lockout fee.
- Switch on optional clauses such as the satisfaction guarantee, pets or non-solicitation of staff.
- Download the PDF, walk through it with the client, and both sign before the first visit.
Tips and common mistakes
- A vague task list. "Clean the house" invites disagreements. Be specific about each room.
- No lockout fee. Turning up to a locked door costs you time and travel. A modest fee is fair if it is agreed in advance.
- Labelling keys with the address. Use a code instead and keep a key log.
- No proof of insurance. Commercial clients often ask for it, and it reassures homeowners too. Insurance requirements vary by location.
Price your visits with the hourly rate calculator or send an estimate for a deep clean, then bill each visit with the cleaning service invoice template. If a client falls behind, the payment reminder email generator helps you follow up.
This template is general information, not legal advice. Rules on consumer contracts, insurance, employment and licensing for cleaning businesses vary by country and state; check local requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What should a cleaning service contract include?
At minimum: the property, frequency and schedule, the list of tasks, who provides supplies, price per visit and payment terms, cancellation rules, how keys are handled, responsibility for damage, insurance and how either side can end the agreement. This template covers all of them.
Is it fair to charge a lockout fee?
Yes, if it is agreed in advance and is reasonable. When a cleaner cannot get in, they lose the time slot and travel cost. Many cleaners charge a portion of the visit price, such as half, rather than the full amount.
Who pays if a cleaner breaks something?
Under this template, the cleaner pays for damage caused by its own negligence, by repair or reasonable replacement cost. It is not responsible for normal wear and tear, items that were already faulty or unsecured, or damage from following the client's instructions.
Do cleaners need insurance?
Public liability insurance is strongly recommended and often expected by clients, and some places require other cover, such as workers' compensation, if you employ staff. Check the rules where you work.
Can the same contract be used for office cleaning?
Yes. Choose a frequency such as daily on business days, list the tasks for each area, and add any site-specific rules, such as alarm procedures or waste handling, with the additional terms box.
