What to Look for in a Commercial Cleaning Contract

The essential sections

Scope of work

This is the most important section. It should itemize every cleaning task, specify the areas covered, and define the frequency for each task. If it uses vague phrases like "general cleaning" without specifics, ask for an addendum with a detailed task list before signing.

Service frequency and schedule

The contract should state clearly how often service occurs, which days, and whether timing is fixed or flexible.

Pricing and payment terms

Confirm whether pricing is monthly, per-visit, or per-square-foot. Check when invoices are issued and when payment is due.

Contract duration and renewal

Most commercial cleaning contracts run 12 months and auto-renew unless cancelled within a notice window. Mark your calendar.

Termination clause

What does it cost to exit early? Some contracts charge the equivalent of remaining months at full price. Others offer a mutual termination clause after a cure period if service quality falls below standard.

Complaint and remedy process

How do you report a problem? What is the company's response time commitment? What remedy is offered — a re-clean, a credit?

Insurance and liability

The contract should confirm the company carries general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for the policy limits and a certificate of insurance naming your business as an additional insured.

What to negotiate

Contracts are starting points, not take-it-or-leave-it documents. Ask for a trial period, mutual termination rights, and performance benchmarks tied to your complaint resolution process.

See our Pricing page for details on how this fits into our standard service offering.