What to Expect from a Professional Janitorial Service Contract
When a business hires a professional janitorial company, it’s not just about keeping things clean—it’s about maintaining a healthy, productive environment that reflects well on the entire organization. But I’ve learned over the years that many business owners don’t always know what should be included in a professional janitorial service contract. That uncertainty can lead to miscommunication, inconsistent service, and unexpected costs.
My name is Danielle Reyes. I’m a graduate of the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in Facility and Property Management. I’m the owner of a successful janitorial service company in Ohio, which I’ve run for over 13 years. I’m also a writer and editor for Price It Here, where I help business owners understand the ins and outs of commercial service contracts.
If you’re preparing to sign a janitorial service agreement—or simply want to know if your current one is doing its job—here’s what you should expect.
A Clear Scope of Services
This is where every contract should begin. A professional agreement will spell out exactly what tasks are included, how often they’ll be performed, and in what areas of the building. This includes services like:
- General dusting and surface cleaning
- Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming
- Restroom cleaning and sanitation
- Trash removal and recycling
- Breakroom and kitchen cleaning
Depending on your needs, your contract might also include services such as floor stripping and waxing, window cleaning, or deep carpet extraction. Everything should be listed in detail, so there are no surprises about what’s covered—or what isn’t.
Frequency and Scheduling
Professional janitorial contracts outline how often each task will be performed—daily, weekly, monthly, or seasonally. They should also specify the hours cleaning crews will be on-site.
For example, if your office prefers after-hours cleaning to avoid disruption, that should be documented in the agreement. If you need additional service during busy seasons, there should be flexibility built into the contract to accommodate that.
Defined Roles and Responsibilities
A solid contract explains not just what’s being done, but who is responsible for what. This includes:
- Whether the janitorial company will supply their own cleaning products and equipment
- If eco-friendly or specialized products are required for your facility
- Who handles replenishing restroom supplies (paper towels, toilet paper, hand soap, etc.)
- What to do in case of property damage or an accident
You should know exactly what to expect from your service provider—and what they expect from you.
Quality Assurance and Accountability
Every professional janitorial contract should include a plan for measuring performance and maintaining quality. Look for details like:
- Regular inspections or walkthroughs
- A contact person or account manager
- A process for reporting issues and requesting service adjustments
- Service-level expectations and corrective action procedures
You want a provider who doesn’t just clean, but stands behind their work and addresses concerns promptly.
Insurance and Compliance
This part is critical, especially for businesses operating in regulated environments. A professional janitorial provider should carry:
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
- Any state or local business licenses
- Background checks or certifications if required for sensitive facilities
If your provider can’t produce documentation of coverage, that’s a major red flag.
Clear Pricing and Payment Terms
There’s nothing worse than hidden charges in a service agreement. Your janitorial contract should break down:
- How pricing is structured (flat rate, hourly, per square foot)
- Payment schedule and invoicing terms
- Any additional charges for emergency call-outs, holiday cleaning, or special projects
If your needs change—say you add a new office wing or want monthly carpet shampooing—there should be a clear process for adjusting the contract and fees accordingly.
Contract Length and Termination Terms
Most contracts are structured for a set term—often 6 or 12 months—with renewal options. But it’s important to review the cancellation policy.
Look for:
- Notice period required to terminate the agreement
- Any early termination fees
- Conditions under which either party can cancel the contract (such as ongoing service issues)
Good janitorial companies earn your continued business—they shouldn’t trap you in a one-sided contract.
Customized Services for Your Industry
Not every building is the same, and your janitorial service shouldn’t treat it like it is. Professional providers will tailor their contract to your specific facility, whether that’s:
- A corporate office
- Medical or dental practice
- Educational facility
- Retail store
- Industrial warehouse
For example, cleaning a healthcare clinic requires strict attention to sanitation standards, while a warehouse might need more focus on dust control and floor safety.
Make sure your provider understands your industry’s unique cleaning needs and reflects that in your service agreement.
Final Thoughts
A professional janitorial service contract isn’t just a list of cleaning tasks—it’s a partnership agreement that helps your business stay clean, safe, and productive. When structured properly, it brings peace of mind and consistent results.
If you’re shopping for janitorial services, take time to review the contract carefully, ask questions, and make sure the agreement fits your business—not just their service model.
And if you’re unsure where to start, Price It Here can help you compare janitorial service providers that meet your exact needs.
About the Author
Danielle Reyes is a University of Michigan graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Facility and Property Management. She is a writer and editor for Price It Here and the owner of a successful janitorial company based in Ohio, where she has served commercial clients for over 13 years.
