Cleaning Service Contracts: What to Include for Both Parties

Why a Cleaning Service Contract Matters

Whether you are hiring a cleaning service for your home or your business, or you are a cleaner formalizing your operations, a written contract prevents disputes about what was supposed to be cleaned, who provides supplies, and what happens if something is damaged.

Scope of Work

• Specific tasks: List exactly what will be cleaned in each visit — kitchens, bathrooms, floors, dusting, windows, appliances, etc.
• Excluded areas: What is explicitly not included? (Deep cleaning, oven interiors, outdoor areas, laundry, organizing)
• Frequency: Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or one-time
• Duration: Approximately how long will each visit take?
• Deep cleaning vs. regular maintenance: Define the difference and price each separately
• Move-in/move-out cleaning: Specific scope and pricing if applicable

Supplies and Equipment

• Who provides supplies: Does the cleaner bring their own products and equipment, or does the client provide them?
• Product preferences: If the client has requirements (eco-friendly, pet-safe, specific brands), who pays for specialty products?
• Equipment damage: Who is responsible if the cleaner's equipment damages the client's property (e.g., vacuum scratches hardwood floor)?

Access and Security

• Key or code access: How will the cleaner access the property? Document key exchange or alarm codes
• Security procedures: Locking up, setting alarms, specific entry/exit requirements
• Supervised vs. unsupervised: Will anyone be home during cleaning?
• Privacy: Areas the cleaner should not access (home office, locked rooms)

Liability and Insurance

• Damage to property: What is the process for reporting and compensating for breakage or damage?
• Theft: While rare, the contract should address the procedure for theft claims
• Insurance: Does the cleaning service carry general liability insurance and bonding?
• Workers' compensation: If the cleaner is injured on your property, are they covered?

Payment and Cancellation

• Rate: Flat fee per visit, hourly rate, or per-square-foot pricing
• Payment timing: Due at each visit, weekly, or monthly
• Cancellation notice: How much notice for individual visit cancellation (typically 24-48 hours) versus terminating the ongoing relationship
• Cancellation fee: Charge for late cancellations or lockouts
• Price increases: How much notice before rate changes?

When to Consult a Lawyer

For commercial cleaning contracts involving significant scope or ongoing service agreements, consider having a business attorney review the liability, insurance, and indemnification provisions.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.