Updated 22 October 2026 · Avenclear Cleaning
The specification as a schedule
Attach the room-by-room specification to the contract so the service is defined in writing. Changes to it should be agreed as variations with a price adjustment.
Term and notice
Terms of 12 to 36 months are common, with one to three months' notice. A shorter initial term gives you an exit if the contractor underperforms.
Price and price reviews
Most of the price is wages, so most contracts allow an annual review when the National Living Wage changes each April. Agree how the increase is calculated, for example passing through the wage increase on the labour element only.
Performance and KPIs
Agree a small number of measures: monthly audit score, time to fix reported faults, and missed cleans. Say what happens if they are missed, such as a remedial plan, service credits or a right to terminate.
Insurance
Set minimum levels for employers' liability and public liability, and require certificates each year.
TUPE
When a contract starts or ends, cleaning staff may transfer between contractors. The contract should deal with employee information and indemnities. See switching cleaning contractors.
Keys, alarms and security
Set out who holds keys and codes, how they are logged, and what happens if keys are lost.
Data protection and confidentiality
Cleaners see desks, documents and screens. Include confidentiality terms, and data protection terms if the contractor handles personal data such as visitor logs.
Termination
Include rights to terminate for persistent poor performance after a cure period, as well as on notice.
This guide is general information, not legal advice.