What to Include in a Service Agreement with Clients

6/4/2025

As a cleaning business owner, one of the most important things you can do to protect your time, income, and reputation is to use a well-written service agreement. Whether you’re cleaning homes, offices, or rental properties, a service agreement (sometimes called a client contract) ensures that both you and your client are on the same page—before the first sponge hits the sink.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what to include in a solid service agreement, so you can avoid misunderstandings, get paid on time, and operate your business like a true professional.

1. Basic Client and Business Information

Start by listing the full names and contact information for both parties:

Your business name, address, and phone number
Client’s full name, service address, phone number, and email

💡 Tip: Make sure to date the agreement and include a reference or job ID number if you use one.

2. Scope of Services

Clearly list exactly what your cleaning services include—and what they don’t. Be specific:

Which rooms or areas will be cleaned
Tasks to be completed (e.g., dusting, vacuuming, bathroom sanitizing, mopping)
Frequency of service (e.g., weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, one-time)

Optional additions:

Add-on services (e.g., oven cleaning, inside windows, refrigerator cleaning)
Limitations (e.g., no laundry, no biohazard cleanup, no exterior cleaning)

💡 Tip: Include a checklist if possible—clients love transparency.

3. Schedule and Timing

Set expectations around when the cleaning will take place:

Agreed-upon start date and time
Recurring days of service
Estimated duration per visit
Policy on rescheduling or cancellations

💡 Tip: Include a clause for delays due to traffic, weather, or emergencies, and how you’ll communicate those.

4. Payment Terms

Avoid confusion (and awkward conversations) by laying out payment terms in advance:

Cost per visit or per hour
When and how payment is due (e.g., at time of service, within 3 days)
Accepted payment methods (cash, check, Venmo, Zelle, credit card, etc.)
Late payment fees (if applicable)

💡 Tip: If you charge a fee for missed appointments or cancellations with short notice, be clear about it here.

5. Client Responsibilities

Protect your team and workflow by explaining what you expect from the client:

Access to the property (keys, codes, entry instructions)
Securing pets
Providing a clutter-free space before cleaning
Notifying you of special instructions or hazards

💡 Tip: You can also mention that fragile or valuable items should be moved or disclosed in advance.

6. Supplies and Equipment

State who provides the supplies and equipment:

Do you bring your own tools and products?
Will you use the client’s supplies upon request?
Are eco-friendly products available?

💡 Tip: If you charge extra for specialty products, include that info here.

7. Satisfaction Guarantee and Quality Assurance

Give your clients peace of mind and protect your business from disputes:

State how issues or missed tasks will be handled
Offer a time window for reporting concerns (e.g., 24–48 hours after service)
Outline your touch-up or redo policy if the client is dissatisfied

💡 Tip: A satisfaction guarantee builds trust—but be clear about what it covers and when it applies.

8. Liability and Insurance

Show that your business is professional and prepared:

Mention your general liability insurance coverage
Note that you’re not liable for pre-existing damage, normal wear and tear, or unsecured valuables
Clarify your breakage or damage policy (e.g., you’ll replace or credit items up to a certain value)

💡 Tip: If you’re bonded or insured, make it known—it builds trust instantly.

9. Termination Policy

Explain how either party can end the agreement:

Required notice period (e.g., 7 days, 14 days)
Whether written notice is needed
Any cancellation fees for early termination of a long-term contract

💡 Tip: A mutual termination clause protects both you and the client in case the relationship just doesn’t work out.

10. Signatures and Agreement Date

Seal the deal with both parties’ signatures:

Printed names and signatures of both parties
Date the agreement is signed

💡 Tip: Keep a signed copy on file and offer a copy to the client for their records.

Final Thoughts

A service agreement isn’t just a formality—it’s a foundation for a smooth and professional relationship. It sets expectations, protects your time, and helps your business run with fewer surprises. Plus, having a contract in place signals to your clients that you’re serious about your work and their satisfaction.

If you don’t already use a service agreement, now’s the perfect time to create one or refine the one you have. It’s one of the most powerful tools in your Cleanerpreneur toolbox.

Do you use a service agreement in your business? Share your must-have clauses or lessons learned in the comments—we’re all in this together!

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