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The piece of paper, or contract, describing work to be performed, detailing the project, and quoting a price for the project, is a legal document, binding to all parties who sign it.
For that reason, make sure you read the contract carefully before signing it. Make sure all aspects of the project are accurately described, and that everything promised and agreed upon is included.
Never sign any document you have not read carefully, or that contains only vague references to vital aspects of the project. Once the contract has been signed, the contractor is not legally bound to promises not included in the contract.
If something detailed in the contract is not clear to you, ask for an explanation and request that a revision be made to the contract. If still in doubt, discuss the matter with a reputable lawyer.
The Contract Should Include:
• Names and physical addresses of the buyer and seller (yourself and the contractor). Be sure that the contractor’s firm, if there is one, is the same one referred to in the contract, and that the contract includes the firm’s full title, address, telephone number, and the name of the firm’s official representative. The physical address of the project site should also be included.
• A detailed description of the project, including plans and drawings, when applicable, as well as specific materials to be used. Included, too, should be all work being subcontracted (i.e. plumbing, wiring, etc.). Clear and concise job specifications should be outlined to avoid problems and misunderstandings that could later arise.
• All required building permits should be noted, as well as who will be responsible for obtaining and paying for them.
• Notation that all work will be done according to local building codes.
• Notation that the contractor will clean up the construction site at the end of each workday, and remove debris, and that all debris will be removed by the contractor at the completion of the project.
• A statement of all warranties, with an explanation as to what is covered, and for how long.
• A statement of the contractor's public liability and property damage insurance.
• Starting and completion dates; penalties, if any. It is also a good idea to get in writing how many days each week the contractor plans to work on your project. This is because some contractors take on several jobs at once, dividing their time between them.
• Project cost and terms of payment.
• Any other information, terms, or promises, vital to the project.
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