How to Write a Service Agreement in the UK
A practical UK guide to defining services, fees, timing, responsibilities, termination and other core service agreement terms.
Start with the parties and the services
Identify the client and service provider clearly, then describe the work precisely enough that both sides can tell what is and is not included.
Set fees, invoices and timing
State the fee or pricing method, when invoices will be issued, payment dates, milestones and any agreed expenses. Clear commercial terms reduce later disputes.
Deal with standards and responsibilities
For consumer services, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 implies that the service must be performed with reasonable care and skill. A contract should not try to remove statutory consumer rights.
Cover changes, ending the agreement and disputes
Explain how scope changes are agreed, how either side may terminate, what happens to outstanding fees and work, and which law or dispute process applies.
Check employment status where an individual provides the work
Calling someone a contractor does not by itself decide employment status. The real working relationship and genuine contractual terms matter, so arrangements involving individuals may need specialist advice.
Create your service agreement
Use the free browser-based builder to enter the parties, services, fees and core terms, then review the document before printing or saving as PDF.
Open the Service Agreement builderRelated service agreement guides
Guidance checked: GOV.UK / Competition and Markets Authority guidance on consumer and business contract terms, the Consumer Rights Act 2015, and GOV.UK/HMRC guidance on contractors and employment status. This page is general information, not legal advice.