When should I use an MSA instead?

Use a master services agreement when you expect several projects with the same client, each ordered by a statement of work. A service agreement suits a single engagement or a simple recurring service.

What if the work is not up to standard?

The template asks the provider to work to industry standards and to fix deficiencies reported within a set number of days at no extra charge.

Can I sign a service agreement electronically?

Yes. Under the ESIGN Act and UETA, electronic signatures are valid for service contracts. XDocs records an audit trail and a certificate of completion with the signed copy.

Free template

Service agreement template

A service agreement is the all-purpose contract between a customer and someone providing a service, from cleaning and repairs to bookkeeping and IT support. It says what will be done, by when, for how much, and how either side can end it. Edit it in the browser and send it for signature from the same page; the free plan includes 5 sends a month and never asks for a card.

Start free with this template

When to use it

A small business hiring a local service provider such as cleaning, landscaping or maintenance.
A freelancer or agency that wants a simple contract without a separate statement of work.
Recurring monthly services billed at a flat or hourly rate.

What's in it

1.Services
2.Fees and payment
3.Client responsibilities
4.Standard of work
5.Independent contractor
6.Confidentiality
7.Liability
8.Term and termination
9.General

Plus signature, name and date fields for client and service provider.

The full template

The text you start from, exactly as it opens in the editor. Bracketed blanks are yours to fill in; highlighted fields are filled by each signer.

Service Agreement

This Service Agreement (the “Agreement”) is made as of Date signed — Client between [Client name], of [Client address] (the “Client”), and [Service provider name], of [Provider address] (the “Provider”).

1. Services

The Provider will perform the following services: [describe the services, location and any standards they must meet] (the “Services”).

Schedule: [start date, frequency or deadlines].

2. Fees and payment

The Client will pay [a fixed fee of $[amount] / $[rate] per [hour / visit / month]]. The Provider will invoice [on completion / monthly], and invoices are due within [fifteen (15)] days. Materials and expenses are [included / billed at cost with the Client's prior approval].

3. Client responsibilities

The Client will give the Provider timely access, information and decisions the Services need. Delays caused by the Client may move deadlines.

4. Standard of work

The Provider will perform the Services in a professional and workmanlike manner, in line with generally accepted industry standards and applicable law. If the Client reports a deficiency within [ten (10)] days of completion, the Provider will correct it at no extra charge.

5. Independent contractor

The Provider is an independent contractor, controls how the Services are performed, supplies its own tools unless agreed otherwise, and is responsible for its own taxes, insurance and personnel.

6. Confidentiality

Each party will keep the other's non-public information confidential and use it only for this Agreement.

7. Liability

Neither party is liable for indirect or consequential damages. The Provider's total liability is limited to the fees paid under this Agreement, except for injury to people or damage to property caused by its negligence.

8. Term and termination

This Agreement runs until the Services are complete [or until [end date]]. Either party may end it on [fourteen (14)] days' written notice, or immediately if the other materially breaches it. The Client will pay for Services performed to the end date.

9. General

This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of [State]. It is the entire agreement on its subject and may be changed only in writing signed by both parties.

Signatures

Client

Signature: Signature — Client

Name: Full name — Client

Date: Date signed — Client

Service provider

Signature: Signature — Service provider

Name: Full name — Service provider

Date: Date signed — Service provider

This template is a general-purpose starting point written in plain English for use in the United States. It is not legal advice and has not been reviewed for your situation; for anything high-stakes, have a lawyer review the final version.

How to send it for signature

Step 1
Start from the template
It opens as a document in the editor with both parties' signature, name and date fields already placed. Fill in the bracketed blanks and change any clause.
Step 2
Add who signs
Put an email address on each party, set the signing order if it matters, add an access code if you want one, and add a viewer for anyone who only needs to read it.
Step 3
Send it and track it
Each signer gets a link and signs in the browser, no account needed. You see who has opened and signed, and everyone gets the completed PDF with a certificate of completion.