What to Look for in a Commercial Cleaning Contract

A good commercial cleaning contract spells out the scope of work, how often each task happens, the price and how it can change, proof of insurance, how quality is checked and problems fixed, who supplies what, and fair notice and renewal terms. If any of these is missing or vague, ask for it in writing before you sign.

The checklist

• Scope of work: every task by area and frequency, plus periodic work like floor care and windows. See what a scope of work includes.
• Schedule: days, hours and what happens on holidays.
• Price: the per-visit or monthly price, what's included, and how extra services are priced.
• Price changes: when and how the price can change, with written notice.
• Insurance: a certificate of insurance for general liability and workers' compensation, kept current.
• Crews: how workers are screened and whether the same team cleans your building.
• Quality: checklists, proof of service, inspections, and how quickly reported issues are fixed.
• Supplies: who provides cleaning products, equipment, paper goods and soap.
• Access and security: key and alarm-code handling, and what happens if keys are lost.
• Term and notice: the length of the agreement, notice to end it, and whether it renews automatically.

Red flags

• A scope that just says "general cleaning".
• No certificate of insurance, or one that's expired.
• Long lock-in terms with steep early-termination fees.
• No clear contact person for problems.

Before you sign

Compare at least two proposals built on the same scope, and read our guide to office cleaning costs so you know what the price covers. Switching from a current provider? See how to switch cleaning companies.

Next steps

Our complete guide to commercial cleaning services covers the rest. Every proposal we send includes a written scope and our insurance details; request a free quote.