Understanding Basic Service Agreements

A service agreement is a crucial document that outlines the terms and conditions under which services will be rendered between two parties. It serves to protect both the service provider and the client by establishing clear expectations and responsibilities. Below are three diverse examples of basic service agreements that can be tailored to various business contexts.

Example 1: Freelance Graphic Design Agreement

This agreement is utilized when a freelance graphic designer is hired by a small business to create marketing materials. It clarifies the scope of work, deadlines, and payment terms.

The Parties to this Agreement are:

• Client: ABC Marketing Solutions
• Service Provider: Jane Doe, Freelance Graphic Designer

This agreement is effective as of [Date].

Scope of Work: The Service Provider agrees to deliver design services for the following items: logo design, business cards, and social media graphics.

Timeline: All deliverables are to be completed within 30 days of this agreement’s effective date.

Payment: The Client agrees to pay the Service Provider a total fee of $1,200, with 50% due upon signing and the remaining 50% upon completion.

Revisions: The Client is entitled to up to three rounds of revisions for each deliverable.

Termination: Either party can terminate this agreement with a written notice of 14 days.

Signatures:

• Client: _____________________ Date: ____________
• Service Provider: ______________ Date: ____________

Notes:

• Ensure to specify any additional services or items that may incur extra charges.
• Consider including a clause for intellectual property rights.

Example 2: Cleaning Service Agreement

This agreement is commonly used when a residential cleaning service is contracted to maintain a client’s home. It details the frequency of service, payment, and responsibilities.

The Parties to this Agreement are:

• Client: John Smith
• Service Provider: Sparkle Clean Co.

This agreement is effective as of [Date].

Scope of Work: The Service Provider shall provide cleaning services for the Client’s residence located at [Address]. Services to be provided include dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and bathroom cleaning.

Frequency: Cleaning services will be provided bi-weekly, every other Wednesday.

Payment: The Client agrees to pay $150 per cleaning session, due at the end of each service.

Supplies: The Service Provider will provide all necessary cleaning supplies unless otherwise agreed upon.

Termination: Either party may terminate this agreement with a written notice of 7 days.

Signatures:

• Client: _____________________ Date: ____________
• Service Provider: ______________ Date: ____________

Notes:

• It may be beneficial to include a clause regarding liability for damages during service.
• Consider establishing a cancellation policy.

Example 3: IT Support Service Agreement

This agreement is suitable for businesses hiring an IT support service to manage their technology needs. It specifies the services provided, response times, and fees.

The Parties to this Agreement are:

• Client: XYZ Corporation
• Service Provider: IT Solutions Group

This agreement is effective as of [Date].

Scope of Work: The Service Provider will provide IT support services including network management, software updates, and troubleshooting.

Response Time: The Service Provider agrees to respond to support requests within 2 hours during business hours (9 AM to 5 PM).

Payment: The Client agrees to pay a monthly retainer fee of $500, which covers up to 10 hours of service. Additional hours will be billed at $75 per hour.

Confidentiality: The Service Provider agrees to keep all client information confidential and will not disclose any details to third parties.

Termination: Either party may terminate this agreement with a written notice of 30 days.

Signatures:

• Client: _____________________ Date: ____________
• Service Provider: ______________ Date: ____________

Notes:

• Consider adding specific service level agreements (SLAs) for critical services.
• Ensure the agreement is compliant with relevant data protection regulations.