Written by

Jennifer Carlson

August 30, 2025

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Cleaning service agreement basics

A cleaning service agreement is a written contract that establishes clear terms between a cleaning service provider and their client. It can be used for a variety of cleaning jobs, from residential house cleaning to commercial or office cleaning contracts.

These agreements can cover services that are one-time or recurring and may address unique requirements for homes, offices, or specialized commercial cleaning.

Benefits of residential or commercial cleaning contracts

Having a clear contract in place helps both parties define their expectations, payment, tasks, and legal obligations, reducing the risk of disputes. Additionally, defining the relationship in the contract affirms that the cleaner is an independent contractor rather than an employee, which has important tax and legal implications.

What to include in home or office cleaning contracts

Each cleaning contract or cleaning agreement template should contain the following information:

• Party details: Clearly list client and cleaner or company names and their contact information.

• Services provided: Specify what cleaning tasks will be performed, such as dusting, vacuuming, bathroom cleaning, window washing, trash removal, or any commercial-specific tasks like power washing.

• Work schedule and frequency: State if services are one-time or recurring (daily, weekly, monthly), and the timeframes or access hours.

• Location: Record the exact address where cleaning will take place.

• Payment terms: Provide information on compensation structure (flat rate, per hour, per cleaning), due dates (after service, monthly, upon invoice), late payment fees, and deposit amounts if applicable.

• Equipment and supplies: Indicate whether the cleaner or client provides cleaning supplies, equipment, and materials.

• Inspection clause: Grant the client the right to inspect the work before final payment.

• Termination: Outline a process for either party to end the contract, including any required notice period.

• Confidentiality clause: Specify if the cleaner may access confidential or sensitive information and how they must handle it. This is especially important for commercial cleaning contracts or office cleaning contracts.

• Independent contractor status: Make it explicit that the cleaner is not an employee.

• Liability and insurance: Address who is liable in case of damage and whether the cleaner maintains appropriate insurance.

Cleaning contract template

Below is an abbreviated cleaning contract sample for reference. You can adapt this template for both residential and commercial cleaning jobs:

CLEANING SERVICE AGREEMENT

1. The Parties:

This agreement is made between:

Client: [Client Name, Address]

Cleaner/Contractor: [Cleaner Name/Company, Address]

2. Services:

The Cleaner will devote all the necessary time and attention, within reason, to the performance of the following duties:

[List specific tasks; e.g., dusting, bathroom cleaning, window washing, trash removal]

The Cleaner agrees to comply with the policies, standards, and regulations of the Client to the best of their ability. The Client reserves the right to inspect the completed Duties of the Cleaner. If the Duties performed are defective or incomplete, the Client has the right to notify the Cleaner, and they will correct it within a reasonable timeframe.

3. Schedule:

Cleaning will occur:

☐ One-time on [Date], at [Time]

☐ Daily

☐ Weekly

☐ Bi-weekly

☐ Monthly

☐ On [Days of Week], between [Start Time] and [End Time].

4. Payment:

The Client will pay $[Amount] ☐ per hour ☐ per cleaning ☐ monthly, due [date].

Overdue payment may incur a fee of $[Amount] per [Time Period].

5. Equipment and Supplies:

☐ Cleaner will provide all equipment/supplies

☐ Client will provide equipment/supplies

6. Termination:

Either party can terminate with [Number] days' written notice.

7. Confidentiality:

Cleaner agrees not to disclose or misuse any confidential information seen during cleaning.

8. Independent Contractor Status:

Cleaner acts as an independent contractor and is responsible for own taxes and insurance.

Signatures:

Client: ________________________ Date: ______

Cleaner: _______________________ Date: ______

Customizing commercial or office cleaning contracts

For office cleaning or commercial cleaning contracts, add details like:

• Access times outside business hours

• Special requirements (hazardous waste handling; secure disposal)

• Requirements for insurance or bonding

• Incident reporting procedures

How to handle disputes

If a customer expresses dissatisfaction after a job, listen carefully and show empathy for their concerns. Remain calm and professional while asking clarifying questions to fully understand the issue. Document the details and avoid interrupting, demonstrating that you value their perspective and are committed to finding a fair solution.

Once you have the facts, apologize sincerely if your company is at fault. Offer a practical resolution, such as a follow-up cleaning or partial refund. Clearly communicate, keep the customer updated, and follow up to confirm satisfaction. This approach builds trust and can transform negative situations into lasting loyalty.

Cleaning service agreement best practices

When creating your cleaning contract, remember these guidelines:

• Always use a written contract: Even for small or short-term jobs, a written cleaning contract template protects both parties.

• Be as detailed as possible: Spell out exactly what you both expect from each other, including what services you'll exclude or charge extra for.

• Adapt agreement for each situation: Residential, commercial, and office cleaning contracts may require different clauses and details.

• Attach cleaning checklists: Especially for recurring contracts, these ensure clarity and consistency.

If you're launching a cleaning company, sign up with HomeGuide to get leads for clients searching for cleaners in your area and grow your new business. Our guides on how to start a cleaning business and choosing a cleaning company name can help set you up for success!

With a well-written cleaning service agreement, both the service provider and client have a clear understanding of their rights and obligations, helping prevent miscommunication and legal issues.