Lately, we have seen issues with contract labor ranging from incomplete work to oral agreements that are vague and incomplete. The one common thread is that one party is left feeling misused and taken advantage of, and in some cases, rightly so. Follow a few simple guidelines that can help save you a costly headache when tackling those big projects.

First and foremost, develop a memorialized agreement. In other words, make sure you have a written contract before you pay anyone, or any work is performed. Read every aspect of the contract and negotiate the areas of issue. Include as much detail as possible. In addition, develop completion dates and payment terms.  I would strongly suggest against paying a full, lump sum, for the entire work before any of it is complete. A “pay as you go” structure seems to be more ideal and if either party breaches the agreement, there tends to be less damages at issue. It may be a good idea to add language that ensures the money paid toward a project goes strictly to that project and is not to be used on other unrelated jobsites.

Be sure to research before diving into a project. Mid project change ups can be frustrating and expensive for both parties. In fact, include language in the agreement addressing how these “change orders” will be addressed.

Don’t let anxious excitement lead you into cutting corners and rushing the process. It’s easy to get excited and want to see your vision come to fruition immediately. In these situations, taking your time planning before performing will save hours in the long run.

If you need a contract drafted for your business, or need someone to go over terms and conditions, feel free to reach out, we are just a phone call away.