Do Your Contracts Have These 6 Common Errors?
In the home services world—whether you’re a contractor, painter, roofer, or power washer—your reputation is built on quality work and happy customers. But even the best craftsmanship can be overshadowed by one thing: a bad contract.
A sloppy or incomplete agreement can lead to scope creep, delayed payments, legal disputes, and even damage to your reputation. The good news? Most contract problems come down to the same handful of mistakes—and they’re easy to fix once you know what to look for.
Here are the six most common contract errors that can cost you money, time, and stress.
1. Not Putting It in Writing
A handshake and verbal promise might feel friendly, but it leaves you with nothing to point to if the customer forgets—or changes—the deal. A written contract isn’t just for big jobs; it’s your best protection on every project. It clearly states what you’re doing, what you’re charging, and when you expect to be paid.
2. Vague Scope of Work
“Paint the exterior” or “power wash driveway” isn’t specific enough. Without details, you leave room for clients to interpret the job differently than you intended. Be crystal clear about:
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Exactly what is included and excluded
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Materials, brands, and colors
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Prep work to be done
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How cleanup will be handled
The more precise you are, the fewer headaches later.
3. Skipping Change Orders
Projects often evolve—clients upgrade materials, add rooms, or change colors. If you don’t have a written change order process in your contract, these extras can turn into unpaid work. Every change, no matter how small, should be documented, priced, and signed before you lift a tool.
4. Weak Payment Terms
Without clear payment schedules, you risk delayed or partial payments. A solid contract should spell out:
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Deposit amount and due date
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Progress payments tied to milestones
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Final payment terms
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What happens if payments are late
If it’s not in writing, it’s open to debate.
5. Ignoring Delays and Liability
Weather, supply chain issues, or client decisions can push timelines. If your contract doesn’t explain what happens in those situations, you might be blamed—or even sued—for things beyond your control. Include clauses that protect you from delays outside your responsibility and set realistic completion windows.
6. Forgetting Warranties and Disclaimers
Customers want to know what’s guaranteed—and what isn’t. If you offer a workmanship warranty, define its length and coverage. If certain issues (like pre-existing damage or customer-supplied materials) aren’t your responsibility, put it in black and white.
The Bottom Line
A good contract isn’t just paperwork—it’s your first line of defense against disputes and unpaid invoices. By avoiding these six common errors, you set clear expectations, protect your profit, and ensure your projects run smoothly.
Pro Tip: Have a lawyer review your standard contract once. The small upfront cost can save you thousands down the road.
For your convenience, a downloadable checklist is available here
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Scott Chervitz is owner of George Supply Company and Woodwrx.co, and Director of Operations for 10 food service locations and 1 retail location. You can reach him at Scott@GeorgeSupplyCo.com, on Instagram at @GeorgeSupplyCompany
Brian Chervitz, M.S., is an