If you are a roofing contractor, you already know the importance of roofing contracts and how they should be detailed, formatted well, and legally sound. Unfortunately, you probably hire a lawyer to draft these contracts since you are probably afraid that you might screw it up. And with the hiring of a lawyer, more costs are added to the price of your quote to a customer. Obviously, the higher the price, the more chances you will never win the contract. Fortunately, there is a way to circumvent and avoid these legal costs. And, that is by writing your very own roofing contracts. Scared? Don’t be. It is simple especially with this guide to help you along the way.
Before proceeding, take note that there are 2 types of roofing contracts. One of them is the bid form contract. This is relatively easy to fill out since the fields are already provided for you and the clauses are standard. Normally, these bid forms are provided by the client. The other type of contract is the free form roofing contract. This is a contract that is similar to standard legal contract and a quotation or proposal. This is the type of contract that this guide will focus on.
Prepare the document. Open a new document with your favorite word processing document. Once the blank page appears, create the letterhead of the company. Basically, it will consist of your company logo and name. This will be at the top of the page. In a smaller font size, place the company office address and contact details right below the name. Make sure that the letterhead is centered and is integrated as a watermark to prevent changes. Save this blank letterhead document as your primary template for contracts and proposals.
Add the client’s details. The first portion of your contract should clearly show the client’s name, address, and other pertinent information. Below that, you can proceed to add the scope of the project and the client’s requirements, ranging from draft designs and drawings to a summary of specifications. You may keep this short and brief provided that it is clear and refers to the other portions of the contract.
Add the details of the project. The next part of the contract should consist of the project specifications. First and foremost, include the agreed timetable for the project, from the start date to the completion date. Below that, add your details. As the contractor, you are required to indicate that you are licensed and bonded. This should answer the client’s initial requirement. You will have to attach proof of these statements with the contract. A copy of your licenses and bond should do.
Once you are done with that portion, you can proceed with the actual project details. Enumerate the materials to be used along with the costs associated with it. Make sure to indicate your overall profit margin as well as the budget for taxes. This part should be detailed down to the last nail and to the last cent. Furthermore, you will want to add the terms of payment, usually consisting of a down payment and the acceptance payment (also considered the final payment).
After the details and costs of the project have been indicated on paper, proceed to include warranty policies and other legislation protecting you and the client from legal indemnity and liability.
At the bottom of the page, insert lines for you and the client’s signature.
