Free Cleaning Services Agreement Template

What Is a Cleaning Services Agreement?

A cleaning services agreement is a legally binding contract between a cleaning service provider (an individual cleaner, housekeeping company, or janitorial firm) and a client (a homeowner, property manager, office manager, or building management company). The agreement defines the specific cleaning tasks to be performed, the frequency and schedule of service, who provides supplies and equipment, how the client grants access to the premises, the price and payment terms, cancellation and termination policies, and the liability and insurance provisions that protect both parties.

A cleaning services agreement is sometimes referred to as a cleaning contract, maid service agreement, housekeeping agreement, residential cleaning services contract, janitorial services contract, or commercial cleaning agreement. The specific title matters less than the substance: a written record of the deal that both parties sign before services begin.

Without a written agreement, disputes about scope, schedule, damage, and payment devolve into a battle of competing recollections. A signed agreement eliminates that ambiguity and provides both parties with clear legal standing if the relationship breaks down.

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Why You Need a Cleaning Services Agreement

A handshake and a verbal promise are not substitutes for a written cleaning agreement. Here is why every cleaning professional and every client should insist on a signed contract.

Eliminates scope confusion. Cleaning is subjective. One client considers "clean the kitchen" to mean wiping counters, while another expects the oven to be degreased and the refrigerator emptied and sanitized. A written scope of work removes the guesswork and ensures both parties agree on exactly what will be cleaned, how it will be cleaned, and to what standard.

Protects your payment. A contract establishes when payment is due, how much is owed, and what happens when a client pays late or fails to pay at all. It transforms an informal arrangement into an enforceable obligation, giving you legal recourse to collect unpaid invoices.

Manages liability and damage claims. Cleaning professionals work inside private homes and offices surrounded by valuable and fragile items. If something is damaged, stained, or broken during a cleaning visit, the agreement determines who is responsible, what the limits of liability are, and how claims are filed. Without this clarity, a single incident can destroy a client relationship and expose you to uninsured financial loss.

Defines cancellation and rescheduling rules. Last-minute cancellations cost cleaning businesses real money in lost labor hours and missed scheduling opportunities. A cancellation policy in the agreement protects your revenue by requiring advance notice and imposing fees for late cancellations or no-shows.

Addresses access and security. Cleaners often work when the client is not present. The agreement should specify how the cleaner will access the property (key, lockbox code, electronic access), what areas are off-limits, and what security protocols apply. This protects the client's property and protects the cleaner from false accusations.

Demonstrates professionalism. Presenting a client with a clean, well-organized agreement signals that you run a legitimate business. It builds trust, differentiates you from informal competitors, and sets the tone for a professional relationship.

Supports insurance requirements. Many business insurance policies require that cleaning companies maintain written contracts with their clients. Operating without agreements can jeopardize your coverage when you need it most.

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Key Components of a Cleaning Services Agreement

A thorough cleaning services agreement should cover each of the following areas. Leaving any of these out creates a gap that can lead to disputes.

Cleaning Tasks and Scope of Work

This is the most important section of the agreement. List every cleaning task the provider will perform, organized by room or area. Specify the level of detail for each task. For example, "vacuum all carpeted floors" is clearer than "clean floors." Include any tasks the client specifically requests and any tasks that are explicitly excluded from the standard service.

Frequency and Schedule

State how often the cleaning service will be performed (weekly, biweekly, monthly, one-time) and the specific day and time window for each visit. If the schedule is flexible, define how changes are requested and how much notice is required. For recurring services, note whether the schedule adjusts for holidays.

Supplies and Equipment Responsibility

Specify whether the cleaning provider brings their own supplies and equipment or whether the client provides them. If the provider supplies materials, note any restrictions on product types (eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, specific brands). If the client supplies materials, describe the minimum inventory the client must maintain and where supplies should be stored.

Access Arrangements

Detail how the cleaning provider will enter the premises. Common arrangements include a key held by the provider, a lockbox with a code, an electronic smart lock, or entry coordinated with an on-site manager. State the provider's obligations regarding securing the property upon departure (locking doors, setting alarms, returning keys).

Payment Terms

Define the service fee (hourly rate, per-visit flat rate, or monthly retainer), when payment is due (upon completion, weekly, monthly), accepted payment methods (check, bank transfer, credit card, cash), and any late-payment penalties or interest charges. For recurring services, clarify whether the rate is subject to annual adjustment and under what conditions.

Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy

Specify the minimum notice required for the client to cancel or reschedule a visit without incurring a fee. State the cancellation fee for late cancellations and no-shows. Define the provider's right to cancel visits (for example, due to illness or unsafe conditions) and the process for rescheduling.

Insurance and Liability

State whether the cleaning provider carries general liability insurance, and if so, the coverage amounts. Define the provider's liability for damage to client property, the claims process, and any caps on liability. If the provider carries a surety bond, note the bond amount. Address the client's responsibility for disclosing hazards, securing valuables, and maintaining a safe work environment.

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How to Write a Cleaning Services Agreement

Follow these steps to draft a cleaning services agreement that is clear, complete, and enforceable.

1. Identify both parties. Record the full legal names, business names (if applicable), mailing addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of the cleaning provider and the client.

2. Describe the service location. Include the full address of the property to be cleaned and a brief description of the property type (single-family home, apartment, office suite, retail space, multi-story commercial building).

3. Define the scope of work in detail. List every cleaning task by room or area. Use specific language: "sanitize kitchen countertops and backsplash" rather than "clean kitchen." Note any areas or items that are excluded from the standard service.

4. Set the schedule and frequency. Specify the recurring schedule, including days of the week, time windows, and any seasonal adjustments. For one-time services, specify the exact date and arrival time.

5. Assign supply and equipment responsibility. State who provides cleaning products, vacuum cleaners, mops, and specialized equipment. If the provider supplies materials, note any cost included in the service fee.

6. Define access and security protocols. Document how the provider will enter and exit the property, how keys or codes are managed, and what the provider must do to secure the property upon leaving.

7. Establish pricing and payment terms. State the rate, billing frequency, due dates, accepted payment methods, and late-payment penalties. If you offer a discount for long-term commitments or prepayment, include those terms.

8. Write the cancellation and termination policy. Define cancellation notice requirements, fees for late cancellations or no-shows, and the conditions under which either party may terminate the agreement entirely.

9. Address liability, insurance, and indemnification. Specify insurance coverage, damage liability limits, the claims process, and each party's indemnification obligations.

10. Include a confidentiality clause. Cleaning providers often have access to private spaces and confidential information. A confidentiality clause protects the client's privacy and the provider's reputation.

11. Add dispute resolution terms. Specify whether disputes will be resolved through mediation, arbitration, or litigation, and identify the governing jurisdiction and applicable law.

12. Add signature blocks and the effective date. Both parties must sign the agreement. Include printed names, titles (if applicable), and the date of execution.

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Free Cleaning Services Agreement Template

The following template is provided for general informational purposes. Have an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction review the document before using it for your business.

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CLEANING SERVICES AGREEMENT

Agreement Date: [Date]

Agreement Number: [Number]

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ARTICLE 1. PARTIES

This Cleaning Services Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into as of the date stated above by and between:

Service Provider: [Provider Full Legal Name / Business Name], a [State] [sole proprietorship / LLC / corporation], with its principal place of business at [Address], Phone: [Phone], Email: [Email].

Client: [Client Full Legal Name / Business Name], located at [Address], Phone: [Phone], Email: [Email].

Service Provider and Client are each referred to individually as a "Party" and collectively as the "Parties."

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ARTICLE 2. SERVICE LOCATION

The cleaning services described in this Agreement shall be performed at: [Full Property Address] ("Premises"). The Premises is a [single-family residence / apartment / office suite / commercial building / other] consisting of approximately [square footage or room count].

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ARTICLE 3. SCOPE OF SERVICES

Service Provider agrees to perform the following cleaning services ("Services") at each scheduled visit unless otherwise specified:

Kitchen:
a) Wipe and sanitize all countertops, backsplashes, and exterior cabinet surfaces.
b) Clean and sanitize sink and faucet.
c) Clean exterior surfaces of all appliances (refrigerator, oven, microwave, dishwasher).
d) Clean stovetop and range hood exterior.
e) Sweep and mop hard floors.
f) Empty trash and replace liner.

Bathrooms:
a) Clean and sanitize toilet (interior and exterior), bathtub, shower, and sink.
b) Clean mirrors and glass surfaces.
c) Wipe countertops and fixtures.
d) Sweep and mop floors.
e) Empty trash and replace liner.

Living Areas and Bedrooms:
a) Dust all accessible surfaces including furniture, shelving, and window sills.
b) Vacuum all carpeted floors and area rugs.
c) Sweep and mop all hard floors.
d) Make beds (change linens if provided by Client).

General (All Areas):
a) Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures within safe reach.
b) Dust baseboards and door frames.
c) Vacuum upholstered furniture upon request.
d) Clean interior glass on entrance door.
e) Empty all wastebaskets and replace liners.

Excluded Services: The following services are NOT included unless added by written amendment: interior window washing, deep carpet shampooing, exterior cleaning, laundry and ironing, organizing or decluttering, pest treatment, and any work requiring specialized licensing.

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ARTICLE 4. SCHEDULE AND FREQUENCY

a) Frequency: Services shall be performed on a [weekly / biweekly / monthly / one-time] basis.

b) Scheduled Day and Time: Services shall be performed on [Day(s) of the Week] between [Start Time] and [End Time], unless rescheduled in accordance with Article 8.

c) Estimated Duration: Each visit is estimated to take approximately [number] hours, depending on the condition of the Premises.

d) Holiday Schedule: If a scheduled visit falls on a public holiday, the visit shall be rescheduled to [the next business day / a mutually agreed date].

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ARTICLE 5. SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT

a) [Service Provider / Client] shall provide all cleaning supplies, products, and equipment necessary to perform the Services.

b) If Service Provider supplies materials, the cost of standard cleaning supplies is included in the Service Fee. Specialty products requested by Client (e.g., specific eco-friendly brands, allergen-free products) may be billed separately at cost plus [percentage]%.

c) If Client supplies materials, Client shall ensure that an adequate supply of products is available at the Premises before each scheduled visit. Service Provider shall not be responsible for service deficiencies resulting from inadequate or unsuitable supplies.

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ARTICLE 6. ACCESS AND SECURITY

a) Client shall provide Service Provider with reliable access to the Premises on each scheduled visit day via [key / lockbox code / electronic access code / on-site coordinator].

b) Service Provider shall secure the Premises upon departure by [locking all doors / setting the alarm system / returning the key to the lockbox / other].

c) Service Provider shall not duplicate any keys or access devices without written permission from Client.

d) If Service Provider is unable to gain access to the Premises at the scheduled time due to no fault of Service Provider, Client shall be charged the full Service Fee for that visit.

e) Client shall inform Service Provider of any areas of the Premises that are off-limits or require special handling.

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ARTICLE 7. SERVICE FEE AND PAYMENT

a) Service Fee: The fee for each scheduled visit is $[Amount] [per visit / per hour].

b) Billing Cycle: Invoices shall be issued [after each visit / weekly / monthly on the first business day of the month].

c) Payment Due Date: Payment is due within [number] days of invoice date.

d) Accepted Payment Methods: [Check / bank transfer / credit card / online payment / cash].

e) Late Payment: Payments not received by the due date shall incur a late fee of $[Amount] or [percentage]% per month, whichever is greater.

f) Rate Adjustments: Service Provider may adjust the Service Fee with [30 / 60] days' written notice to Client. Client may terminate this Agreement if the adjusted fee is not acceptable, subject to the terms of Article 9.

g) Additional Services: Services not included in Article 3 may be requested by Client and will be billed at $[Amount] per hour or as quoted in writing before the work is performed.

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ARTICLE 8. CANCELLATION AND RESCHEDULING

a) Client Cancellation: Client must provide at least [24 / 48] hours' notice to cancel or reschedule a visit. Cancellations with less than the required notice period shall incur a cancellation fee equal to [50 / 100]% of the Service Fee for that visit.

b) No-Show: If Client fails to provide access and does not cancel in advance, the full Service Fee for that visit shall be charged.

c) Provider Cancellation: Service Provider may cancel a visit due to illness, emergency, or unsafe conditions at the Premises. Service Provider shall notify Client as soon as practicable and reschedule the visit at no additional cost.

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ARTICLE 9. TERM AND TERMINATION

a) Term: This Agreement shall commence on [Start Date] and continue on a [month-to-month / fixed-term through End Date] basis.

b) Termination by Either Party: Either Party may terminate this Agreement upon [15 / 30] days' written notice to the other Party.

c) Termination for Cause: Either Party may terminate this Agreement immediately upon written notice if the other Party materially breaches any provision and fails to cure the breach within [number] days of receiving notice.

d) Effect of Termination: Upon termination, Client shall pay for all Services satisfactorily completed through the date of termination. Service Provider shall return all keys, access devices, and Client-owned supplies within [number] days of termination.

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ARTICLE 10. LIABILITY AND INSURANCE

a) Insurance: Service Provider [maintains / shall obtain prior to commencement] commercial general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $[Amount] per occurrence and $[Amount] aggregate.

b) Workers' Compensation: If Service Provider has employees, Service Provider shall maintain workers' compensation insurance as required by the laws of [State].

c) Damage to Property: Service Provider shall exercise reasonable care when cleaning the Premises. In the event of accidental damage caused by Service Provider during the performance of Services, Service Provider shall notify Client within 24 hours. Service Provider's liability for property damage shall not exceed $[Amount] per incident, unless caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct.

d) Pre-Existing Conditions: Service Provider is not responsible for damage resulting from pre-existing conditions, normal wear and tear, inherent defects in materials, or items placed in unstable or hazardous positions.

e) Client Responsibilities: Client shall inform Service Provider of any known hazards, fragile items, or special care instructions before Services commence. Client shall secure valuables, cash, and sensitive documents before each visit.

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ARTICLE 11. CONFIDENTIALITY

Service Provider acknowledges that, in the course of performing Services, Service Provider may have access to confidential information, personal property, and private spaces. Service Provider agrees to maintain the confidentiality of all information observed, encountered, or obtained during the performance of Services and shall not disclose such information to any third party without Client's prior written consent.

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ARTICLE 12. INDEMNIFICATION

a) Service Provider shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Client from and against any claims, damages, losses, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of Service Provider or Service Provider's employees or subcontractors in the performance of Services.

b) Client shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Service Provider from and against any claims, damages, losses, and expenses arising from Client's failure to disclose known hazards, unsafe conditions, or other material information regarding the Premises.

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ARTICLE 13. DISPUTE RESOLUTION

a) The Parties agree to attempt to resolve any dispute arising under this Agreement through good-faith negotiation.

b) If negotiation fails, the Parties agree to submit the dispute to [mediation / binding arbitration / litigation] in [County, State], governed by the laws of the State of [State].

c) The prevailing Party in any arbitration or litigation shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees and costs from the non-prevailing Party.

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ARTICLE 14. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR STATUS

Service Provider is an independent contractor, not an employee of Client. Service Provider retains full control over the manner and means of performing the Services, subject to the terms of this Agreement. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to create a partnership, joint venture, or employer-employee relationship between the Parties. Service Provider is solely responsible for all applicable taxes, insurance, and employment obligations.

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ARTICLE 15. GENERAL PROVISIONS

a) Entire Agreement: This Agreement, together with all exhibits, amendments, and attachments, constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties and supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, and agreements, whether written or oral.

b) Amendments: This Agreement may not be amended except by a written instrument signed by both Parties.

c) Severability: If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

d) Assignment: Neither Party may assign this Agreement without the prior written consent of the other Party.

e) Notices: All notices required under this Agreement shall be in writing and delivered by hand, certified mail, or email to the addresses listed in Article 1.

f) Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of [State].

g) Waiver: The failure of either Party to enforce any right or provision of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of that right or provision.

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SIGNATURES

Service Provider:

Signature: _________________________ Date: _____________

Printed Name: _________________________ Title: _____________

Client:

Signature: _________________________ Date: _____________

Printed Name: _________________________

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How to Use This Template

This template gives you a professional starting point. Customize it to match the specific needs of your cleaning business and each individual client.

Step 1: Download the Word version. The Word format allows you to edit every field, add tasks, remove inapplicable sections, and adjust terms to suit your business.

Step 2: Complete the party information. Fill in the names, addresses, and contact details for both the service provider and the client.

Step 3: Customize the scope of services. The template includes a standard residential cleaning scope. Modify the room-by-room task list to reflect the actual services you will provide. Add tasks the client specifically requests and remove any that do not apply.

Step 4: Set the schedule. Enter the frequency, day of the week, and time window. For one-time services, specify the exact date.

Step 5: Define pricing and payment terms. Enter your rate, billing cycle, payment due date, and late-payment terms. If you charge differently for initial deep cleans versus recurring visits, note both rates.

Step 6: Adjust the cancellation policy. Set the notice period and cancellation fee that make sense for your business model. Residential clients may expect more flexibility than commercial accounts.

Step 7: Confirm insurance and liability terms. Enter your actual insurance coverage amounts. If you do not carry insurance, remove the insurance representations and consider obtaining coverage before signing client contracts.

Step 8: Review with both parties and sign. Walk the client through the key terms before asking for a signature. Both parties should retain a signed copy. For high-value commercial accounts, consider having an attorney review the final document.

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