Employees in the contract cleaning sector have received a minimum pay rise, with another on the horizon. As of 17 October 2025, a new Employment Regulation Order (ERO) has introduced increased minimum pay rates, from €13.30 to €14.10 per hour, for those working in companies primarily focused on contract cleaning.
These employees will now benefit from a minimum rate of pay that is higher than the national minimum wage.
Important considerations for employers
To stay compliant with the new ERO, employers will need to make adjustments to payroll and employee contracts in line with the updated minimum rates of pay.
It is worth noting that this isn’t a once-off increase. Historically, we have seen many instances where industry-specific pay increases are introduced around this time of year, in September or October, only to be surpassed by the national minimum wage a few months later. In the past, this has caused frustration for workers and wasted administrative work for employers.
This particular ERO, however, dictates that minimum rates of pay for the contract cleaning sector will increase again to €14.80 on 1 January 2026, ensuring that these sector-specific rates continue to exceed the standard minimum wage.
Navigating the challenges ahead
This ERO may present challenges for employers, especially those already grappling with rising operational costs. The dual increases in minimum pay within a short timeframe, coupled with the introduction of the auto-enrolment pension scheme on 1 January 2026, may place additional financial strain on businesses.
It’s essential for business owners to be prepared for these upcoming changes, and to ensure that payroll and documentation continue to be amended accordingly.