The 5 Non-Negotiable Clauses for Your Commercial Cleaning Contract

by | Sep 5, 2025 | Commercial Cleaning, Hiring Guides

Introduction

You’ve reviewed the quotes, checked the references, and chosen your new commercial cleaning partner. The final step before work begins is signing the service agreement. A well-written contract does more than just legally bind you; it serves as a clear roadmap for the partnership, defining expectations, protecting both parties, and preventing future misunderstandings. It’s a foundational tool for a successful, long-term relationship.

Before you sign, ensure your commercial cleaning contract contains these five non-negotiable clauses. If any of these are missing or vague, it’s a red flag that warrants further discussion.

The 5 Clauses Your Contract Must Have

1. A Detailed Scope of Work (SOW)

This is the most critical part of the entire agreement. A vague contract that simply says “janitorial services” is a recipe for disaster. The contract must reference or include a detailed Scope of Work as an appendix. This SOW should be the exact same one provided in the cleaning quote you received, itemizing all daily, weekly, and monthly tasks, as well as any periodic project work. This document is the ultimate source of truth for the services you are paying for.

2. Clear Terms of Liability and Insurance

Your contract must explicitly state that the cleaning company carries adequate Commercial General Liability insurance and is in good standing with WCB. It should also include a clause stating that they will provide a certificate of insurance upon request. This clause protects your business from liability in the event of an accident or damage caused by the cleaning crew. Never partner with a company that is hesitant to put their insurance obligations in writing.

3. A Specific Termination Clause

What happens if the service is consistently poor, or if your business needs change? A professional contract will include a fair and clear termination clause. This typically outlines the terms for ending the agreement, such as providing 30 or 60 days’ written notice. Be wary of contracts with excessively long notice periods or hefty cancellation penalties. This clause provides you with a necessary exit strategy and incentivizes the cleaning company to maintain high service standards.

4. A Confidentiality Agreement

Your cleaning crew will have access to your entire facility after hours, including potentially sensitive areas. A standard confidentiality clause is essential to protect your business information, trade secrets, and employee and customer data. This legally binding clause ensures that the cleaning company and its employees will not disclose any information they may see or overhear while on your premises. It’s a simple but crucial layer of security for any business.

5. A Performance Review and Issue Resolution Process

Even with the best partners, issues can arise. A strong contract outlines the process for handling them. It should define how you report a complaint, the expected response time, and the steps for resolution. Furthermore, it’s good practice for the contract to mention a schedule for formal performance reviews, such as quarterly meetings with your account manager. This clause shows that the company is committed to quality assurance and proactive communication.

A Strong Contract Builds a Strong Partnership

Think of your service agreement not as a source of conflict, but as a tool for clarity. A company that provides a comprehensive, transparent contract is one that is confident in its services and committed to a professional partnership. It shows they value clear communication and accountability as much as you do.

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Ready to work with a cleaning company that checks every box? Contact our team today for a free, no-obligation consultation and site assessment for your facility.