Why cancellation terms matter
For a self-employed cleaner, a cancelled visit at short notice is usually lost income – they can rarely fill the slot at the last minute. That's why most have a cancellation policy, and why it's worth knowing what it is before you start.
Common cancellation policies
Policies vary, but you'll often see:
- 24 or 48 hours' notice to cancel without charge
- A full or partial charge for cancellations with less notice
- A charge if the cleaner arrives and can't get in
- No charge for genuine emergencies, at the cleaner's discretion
When you go on holiday
Arrangements differ. Some cleaners don't charge if you give plenty of notice; others ask clients to pay for some or all of the missed visits, especially for long or frequent holidays, so they can keep your regular slot. Some households ask the cleaner to come anyway and do jobs like cleaning windows inside, the oven or cupboards while the house is empty.
Whatever you agree, give as much notice as you can.
When your cleaner is away
Independent cleaners take holidays and occasionally get ill. Usually the visit is simply missed and you don't pay for it. Cleaning companies often send a replacement cleaner. If holiday cover matters to you, that's a point in favour of a company – see self-employed cleaner vs cleaning company.
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Ending the arrangement
If you want to stop using a cleaner, give reasonable notice – a couple of weeks is common courtesy for a regular cleaner. Collect any keys, change codes and settle any outstanding payment. If you're unhappy with the work, talk to them first; it might be easily fixed.
Bank holidays and Christmas
If your usual cleaning day falls on a bank holiday, agree in advance whether the visit moves, is skipped or goes ahead. Christmas and New Year are busy times, so ask early if you want an extra clean before guests arrive. Many cleaners take a break between Christmas and New Year.
Illness and emergencies
If someone in your home is unwell – especially with something contagious – let your cleaner know before they arrive. Many would prefer to reschedule rather than risk passing illness on to other clients. Equally, a cleaner who's ill should let you know as early as possible.
Most cleaners are understanding about genuine emergencies on your side, even if their policy says otherwise. Being fair in return – paying when you cancel late for non-emergencies – builds goodwill.
Put it in writing
A simple message setting out the day, time, rate, notice period and holiday arrangements prevents misunderstandings. Most cleaning companies have written terms; ask for them before your first booking.
