What’s Should Be Contained in a Building Contract with Your Contractor?

It really depends on what your contractor is doing for you. There are many different types of contract work; but if you are talking about some type of carpentry then there are a few things I would make sure is in the contract.

No money will change hands until the job is done to your satisfaction. Get everything that he/she will do in writing and make sure that if you are not happy with the work that there is a clause in there that stipulates a time frame the contractor will make it right. Usually this time frame is no more than 30 days. Make sure you inspect the work that is being done as it is being done, then go over the whole job with a fine tooth comb again at the end of the job before you pay.

If your contractor says they need money up front for materials, tell him you will go with him to purchase what he needs and use a credit or debit card for the purchases. That way you have a record of the materials and tools purchased and can deduct that amount from the final payment.

I hope that helps - it is just a small portion of what should be included in a contractors contract with you, but it is a start. I suggest you contact Angies List before hiring anyone. It will cost you $10 to join but well worth the headache if someone else has had problems with the contractor you are planning on hiring.

Exact rate per Sq ft/Sq mtr/Flat rate

Specifications of each and every aspect of the building

Exact area of construction

Cost sheet for the entire building with section/location wise break up.

Usage of specified material/things/paints/accessories

Hold back clause in case the contractor leaves in the middle.

There are hundreds of items in a house. Make note of every thing in the contract