Commercial cleaning contracts are typically an agreement between a business and a cleaning service.
A cleaning services contract should describe the cleaning duties and the fees for the services to be provided. However, drafting an effective contract can be challenging.
This article, written by our contract lawyer, Farrah Motley, explores 5 tips for commercial cleaning businesses or independent contractors that will help make an effective contract.
These tips also apply to business owners seeking cleaning services and cleaning companies looking to improve existing contracts.
Key takeaways
- A commercial cleaning contract needs to outline the scope of work, payment terms, and other important details
- A clear contract will set expectations and ensure the smooth execution of cleaning services
- If the cleaning standard is unclear in the contract, which can lead to a lower than expected service quality resulting in client dissatisfaction
- A poorly written contract can lead to disputes, financial loss, poor service quality, and potential legal issues
- It’s crucial to ensure that the contract is well-written, clear, and comprehensive
Tip 1: Clearly outline who can attend the site and any site requirements
A commercial cleaning contract should state who will clean and what is needed at the site.
Here’s an example of how you can clearly outline who can attend the site and any site requirements:
“Site Access and Requirements:
1.1 The Service Provider shall ensure that all personnel who are assigned to perform the cleaning services at the Client’s premises (“Site Attendees”) have undergone the necessary training and are fully qualified to carry out the tasks assigned to them.
1.2 The Service Provider shall provide the Client with a list of all Site Attendees, including their full names and qualifications, at least five (5) business days before the commencement of the cleaning services. The Client reserves the right to approve or reject any of the Site Attendees.
1.3 The Service Provider shall ensure that all Site Attendees comply with the site requirements at all times. These requirements include but are not limited to, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, adhering to the site’s safety protocols, and maintaining a professional and respectful demeanour while on the premises.
1.4 The Service Provider shall ensure that all Site Attendees attend a site induction conducted by the Client before commencing services on the Site. The Service Provider must ensure that all Site Attendees comply with the requirements of the site induction at all times while they are on the Site.
1.5 The Service Provider shall be responsible for any damages or losses caused by the Site Attendees while on the Client’s premises. The Service Provider shall also be responsible for any breaches of the site requirements by the Site Attendees.”
Why a cleaning contract should specify who is doing the cleaning
Clearly outlining the site attendees and requirements is important in a commercial cleaning contract for the following reasons:
to ensure that the service provider only allows trained and authorised personnel on site. This is important because cleaning often involves the use of equipment and hazardous chemicals;
if the site contains sensitive information or valuable items, it’s crucial to control who has access to the premises;
to be able to properly identify any person or personnel responsible in case of damage; and
clear site requirements can help prevent disputes that could disrupt the cleaning schedule.
Learn more about common mistakes when drafting commercial contracts.
Tip 2: Be specific about the cleaning tasks
Items that require cleaning
Specifying the cleaning tasks establishes boundaries and the scope of the cleaning service. This is to ensure that the service provided was not underworked or overworked.
The contract should indicate the following items (as relevant):
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- Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and carpet cleaning of the floor
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- Dusting, washing, and removing any marks or graffiti of the walls and ceilings
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- Washing both sides of the window and cleaning window sills and frames.
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- Cleaning both sides, as well as door handles and frames
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- Cleaning and sanitizing toilets, sinks, mirrors, floors, and walls, replenishing supplies like soap and toilet paper, and emptying trash bins.
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- Cleaning appliances like microwaves and refrigerators, wiping down countertops and cabinets, washing dishes, and emptying trash bins.
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- Dusting computers, printers, and other office equipment.
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- Dusting and polishing desks, tables, chairs, and other furniture.
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- Cleaning light fixtures and replacing bulbs as needed.
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- Emptying and cleaning all trash bins.
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- Sweeping walkways, cleaning entrance areas, and removing trash.
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- Specialised areas that need to be cleaned may also be indicated in the contract. This may include display shelves, product racks, gym equipment, medical equipment, and more.
How many rooms are you going to clean?
The number of rooms often directly impacts the cost of the cleaning service. By specifying the number of rooms, both parties can agree on a fair price for the service.
When a site has multiple rooms, it is important to specify in the contract the number of rooms that require cleaning. This can help to prevent any additional costs. If there are rooms that people can’t enter, the contract should mention it so the cleaning staff know.
It also helps define the scope of work for the cleaning service provider. By defining the scope of cleaning services, both parties will:
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- know exactly how many rooms they are responsible for cleaning. This allows them to allocate resources, such as staff and cleaning supplies, more effectively
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- know in advance the number of rooms to be cleaned. The cleaning service provider can then ensure that they clean all areas within the agreed time frame.
Having a specific number of rooms in the cleaning contract provides a clear reference point and can help resolve issues. Being specific can also help cleaning businesses identify when there may be a variation.
The frequency of cleaning tasks
Stating the frequency of the cleaning tasks sets clear expectations between the client and the cleaning service provider. We often notice a difference in the frequency of cleaning tasks and the frequency desired by the client.
This helps avoid any disputes in the future.
Further, it allows the cleaning service provider to plan their schedule and resources effectively. Knowing the frequency of tasks helps them allocate their workforce and manage their time efficiently.
Moreover, the frequency of cleaning tasks can directly impact the cost of the service. A daily cleaning service, for example, will likely cost more than a weekly or monthly service. Therefore, it’s important to specify this in the contract to ensure transparent and fair pricing.
An example of the contract clause providing for the frequency of tasks would be:
If the premises require cleaning every day: “The service provider will perform the agreed-upon cleaning tasks every day within business hours.”
When cleaning is needed less frequently: “The service provider will perform the agreed-upon cleaning tasks every Monday and Thursday.”
If the cleaning is needed only occasionally or on an as-needed basis: “The service provider will perform the agreed-upon cleaning tasks upon request with a 48-hour notice.”
Tip 3: Variation clauses in commercial cleaning contracts
A variation clause is a provision in a contract that allows changes or modifications to the terms of the contract after it has been signed. The common changes are, as to the scope of work, frequency of service, and payment terms.
Here’s an example of a variation clause in a commercial cleaning contract:
“The Client (acting reasonably) may at any time request in writing from the Service provider to carry out a Variation to:
(a) increase, decrease, or omit any part of the Services;
(b) change the nature or quality of any material or work to be used or performed as part of the Services; or
(c) perform additional services.
A variation clause provides a clear process for making amendments to the contract. A variation clause in a commercial cleaning contract ensures that both parties understand the process for changing the fee or scope. Further, a variation clause prevents disputes that could arise from unauthorised or unexpected changes to the services.
Moreover, a variation clause can help control costs. If additional work is required outside the original scope, additional payment is often required. A variation clause protects the service provider from absorbing extra costs. In this way, a variation clause helps manage risks associated with changes in the scope of work.
Learn more about making a variation claim in contracts.
Tip 4: Explain the process for terminating the commercial cleaning contract
The termination clause of a commercial cleaning contract outlines the grounds for the termination of the cleaning contract. This is done by documenting a process of terminating the cleaning contract including any notice periods required. This establishes clear expectations regarding the conditions for ending the commercial cleaning contract.
Further, it helps both parties to understand their potential liabilities and prevent disputes between the parties.
You may be able to terminate a commercial cleaning contract in the following ways:
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- By mutual Agreement of the parties agreeing to end the contract;
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- When the contract is only limited for a period and such period has arrived;
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- If one party wilfully fails to fulfil their obligations under the contract, the other party may have the right to terminate the contract;
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- If the cleaning service provider becomes insolvent or goes out of business, the contract can be terminated; and
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- If the cleaning service provider consistently fails to meet the standards of cleanliness specified in the contract, the client may have the right to terminate the contract.
The specific terms for termination should be clearly outlined in the contract, including any notice periods. The commercial cleaning agreement should also outline procedures for giving notice and any penalties or costs associated with early termination.
Learn more about terminating commercial contracts in our article.
Tip 5: Clearly state the price for cleaning charges and explain the calculation method
Cleaning charges include the costs of using materials and equipment for cleaning. The contract should clearly itemise the equipment and materials.
You should also state how you have calculated the price. Further, indicate whether the contract is a fixed lump sum or based on hourly rates. The contract must outline how to calculate prices to ensure that charges to the customer are fair. Consider the area’s size, number of rooms, and how often it needs cleaning when deciding on cleaning charges.
Here’s an example of a payment and pricing clause in a commercial cleaning contract:
“Payment and Pricing Terms:
1.1 The Client agrees to pay the Service Provider a total fee of [insert total fee] for the cleaning services as outlined in this contract. This fee is based on the scope of work, the number of rooms to be cleaned, and the frequency of cleaning tasks as detailed in the contract.
1.2 The total fee is calculated as follows: [insert detailed breakdown of how the fee is calculated, for example, “The fee is calculated based on a rate of [insert rate] per room, multiplied by the number of rooms to be cleaned, and the number of cleaning sessions per week/month.”]
1.3 The Service Provider will provide an itemized invoice to the Client on a [weekly/monthly] basis. The invoice will detail the cleaning tasks performed, the number of rooms cleaned, and the total amount due.
1.4 The Client agrees to pay the invoice within [insert number of days] days of receipt. Late payments may be subject to a late fee of [insert late fee].
1.5 Any additional cleaning tasks not outlined in this contract will be subject to additional charges. The Service Provider will provide a quote for these additional tasks, and the Client must approve these charges in writing before the tasks are performed.”
Why it is important to have clear pricing clauses
This is important to ensure transparency between the client and the cleaning service provider. Both parties know the cost of services and how they have determined these costs.
The pricing can also reflect the scope of work. For instance, we typically see clients price more complex or frequent cleaning tasks higher. This helps the client understand the value they are getting for their money.
Further, it allows the client to budget accurately for the cleaning services. Knowing the cost upfront helps the client manage their finances effectively. A clearly established price for the service offered helps in setting the client’s cost expectations. It is also helpful for the service provider if there is a dispute regarding the collection of fees.
Learn more about payment terms in our article.
Frequently asked questions
Can a commercial cleaning contract be terminated early?
Yes, a commercial cleaning contract can usually be terminated early, but this will depend on the terms outlined in the contract.
Common reasons for early termination include failure to meet agreed-upon standards, breach of contract, or changes in the needs of the business. The contract should specify the notice period required and any penalties for early termination.
Learn more about how to terminate a contract.
How do I handle disputes related to a commercial cleaning contract?
Disputes related to a commercial cleaning contract should be addressed according to the dispute resolution clause in the contract.
This may involve direct negotiation between the parties, mediation, or arbitration. It’s important to document any issues and attempt to resolve them amicably before escalating the matter. Seeking advice early on from an experienced contract lawyer may be necessary if the dispute is complex, or the parties cannot be resolved through these methods.
How can I ensure the quality of services in a commercial cleaning contract?
To ensure quality cleaning services, businesses should include specific performance standards and regular inspection schedules in the terms of the commercial cleaning contract.
You can also include a clause that allows for periodic reviews of the cleaning services, with provisions for corrective actions if standards are not met. Some contracts may also include incentives for high-quality work or penalties for non-performance.