Do you use a written contract?

Yes. A contract should be mutually beneficial to all parties. Therefore, everything is completed in writing so there are no surprises. The benefit of a contract is that all the project details are spelled out, whether it is the scope of the work to be performed, the amount of time in which the contract is to be fulfilled, or the terms of payment. The contract also outlines the duties and responsibilities of each party. At one time, everyone relied on a handshake to seal the contract. Today we still have a handshake, but because there are so many details, it's important to get it in writing. Not all contracts are the same. However, each one should include:

• Scope of work
• Timetable of start date and completion
• Cost
• When progress payments are to be made
• Warranties, and mechanisms to arbitrate disagreements.

With these details, a customer can be assured that their best interests and those of the contractor are taken into consideration.