A contract doesn't just detail the construction points of the project. You can include clauses that deal with telephone and bathroom use, smoking, daily job cleanup, trash disposal, and so on.

Don't be rushed. You should be given at least a few days to look over the contract. If the contractor pushes you to sign immediately, or to not use a contract at all, you should consider working with someone else.

2torial #0506: Learn2 Hire a Contractor Write up the contract OK, you've chosen your contractor, you're in the home stretch, now it's time to get the details in writing. Unless the project is extremely well-defined and can be completed quickly (say within one visit), you need a contract. This doesn't necessarily mean a lawyer-approved document. Rather, it's an agreement written by the contractor in layperson's terms that outlines your expectations, how the contractor plans to fulfill them, and clear guidelines for payment. Contract laws vary from country to country, state to state, project to project, but you should know these basic sections: Scope. The contract should explicitly state all the work that needs to be done and explain each part of the job. Required materials. Materials such as lumber or electrical components have code-required minimums. Be sure to state if you want materials of a higher grade. Also, specify brand names, model numbers, and colors. Duration. The contract should give the start date, but good luck in getting a specific date of completion. However, a good contractor will agree to a "target" end date and will come as close to it as possible. You can give the contractor incentive to do this through a payment schedule (outlined in the following payment section). Building techniques. From dumping garbage to applying paint to installing insulation, you can specify how the contractor should handle certain tasks. Change orders. This is an authorization for work beyond the scope of the contract -- new jobs you decide you want done during the actual building. This section gives the change-order labor rate and states that you will only pay for preapproved work. Insurance. The contractor needs to present proof of personal liability, worker's compensation and property damage coverage. Payment. The contractor has already given you the price in the estimate. Here, you need to decide how the money exchanges hands. The most common method is to make payments as the contractor reaches certain job milestones. For example, the first payment comes when the contract is signed, the second when the foundation is poured, the third when the drywall is up, and the last upon project completion. With a reliable contractor and a solid contract, you can watch your project proceed with confidence. Remember to be flexible -- even the best contractor can't predict every problem that will arise -- but take heart that you're in good hands. -end- Learn More! or All steps at once (printable version)