How to Get Your Clients to Sign a Service Agreement
Sarah Gander 
Build trust and protect your cleaning business with service agreements. Learn strategies to simplify signing and set clean client expectations.
How to Get Your Clients to Sign a Service Agreement
Service agreements aren’t just legal paperwork – they’re the backbone of a thriving cleaning business. They set clear expectations, protect your team, and ensure smooth operations. But convincing clients to sign one can feel like a delicate dance. Here’s how you can turn that “yes” into a win-win for both you and your clients.
Frame It as a Win-Win
Many clients resist signing agreements because they don’t see the value. Reframe the conversation by explaining how the contract protects their home, ensures high-quality service, and provides clarity on what they can expect.
TIP: Use the analogy of a dating relationship. Setting boundaries upfront helps both parties build trust and avoid misunderstandings.
Keep It Simple and Accessible
Overly complicated legal jargon can intimidate clients. Draft agreements that are clear, concise, and written in plain language.
Use digital tools like Jobber or ZenMaid to streamline the signing process. A quick email or link to sign digitally makes it easy for clients to commit without unnecessary friction.
Introduce It Early in the Relationship
Timing is everything. Share your service agreement when you first onboard a client, rather than waiting until an issue arises. Present it as a standard practice for your business and highlight the professionalism it brings to your services.
Ease Existing Clients Into the Process
Transitioning long-term clients to service agreements can feel awkward, but it’s worth the effort. Communicate the benefits clearly and explain how the agreement will improve their experience.
For example, you can say:
“We’re introducing service agreements to make sure we continue delivering top-notch services and to avoid misunderstandings about scheduling or fees.”
Showcase Success Stories
Share examples of how service agreements have helped other clients. For instance, Jamie Runco of Above All Cleaning has seen legal disputes resolved successfully because her agreements clearly outlined expectations. These stories build credibility and highlight the value of signing.
Automate and Simplify Payments
Clients are more likely to sign agreements if they see it as part of a seamless service. Pair your agreement with systems that automate payments or manage recurring services. This creates a sense of professionalism and trust.
Highlight Transparency in Pricing
Include pricing strategies and potential rate adjustments in your agreement. Clearly state how flat rates or price increases for new clients are calculated to avoid surprses.
Provide Resources and Support
Clients may have questions about the agreement. Be prepared to answer them or offer resources that explain the terms. You can even direct them to tools like the Cleaning Business Contract Master Class for further insights.
Why Service Agreements Are a Must
• Protect Your Business: Ensure you’re legally covered in case of disputes.
• Prevent Misunderstandings: Set clear boundaries to avoid conflicts over expectations.
• Build Client Confidence: Show professionalism and establish trust from the start.
Service agreements aren’t just about protection; they’re about building strong, professional relationships with your clients. By presenting them as a tool for mutual success, you’ll make it easy for clients to say “yes” and pave the way for your business to grow confidently.
Start protecting your cleaning business today by implementing service agreements! For more guidance, check out our resources like the Cleaning Business Contract Bundle.
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Categories: : Business Mindset, Cleaning Business Coaching, Entrepreneurial Success, Klean Freaks University