How long should I wait before chasing a late payment?

Send the first reminder the day after the due date. Waiting longer signals that the due date was not really a due date.

Can I charge interest on a late payment?

For domestic clients, this is rarely worth the relationship cost, and the rules on statutory interest apply to business-to-business work. A clear cancellation and payment policy in your service agreement is a much more effective tool.

What if a client never pays?

If an invoice remains unpaid after you have followed your normal reminder process, make sure you understand your options before taking further action. For most cleaners the practical answer is to stop working for that client, and to move remaining clients onto Direct Debit so the problem does not repeat.

Should I keep cleaning while I chase?

Up to the final reminder, yes. After the final reminder, pause until the account is settled. Continuing to work for a client who is not paying just increases the amount you are owed.

Late Payment Reminder Templates for Cleaners (Free UK Download)

Four ready-to-send late payment reminder messages for UK self-employed cleaners, WhatsApp and email versions, plus an overdue payment tracker. Free download.