Remodeling a home can be a rather challenging task, depending on the scope of the process. Considering that many decisions are to be taken here, you need to put together a written notice. This way, you can be certain that both parties agree to the terms. So, here is why you need a home remodel contract template.
Note: Try a ready-to-edit contract for home remodeling for free today. Sign up with Bonsai and get access to our legally reviewed contracts so you can kickstart a new client relationship. Claim your 14-day free trial here.
What Is a Home Remodel Contract?
Home remodeling contracts are legal documents that are drafted during the reconstruction stage of a damaged structure. The document will contain all the details of the project such as the name of the parties involved, the legal fees, the timeline, etc.
Why Need a Home Remodeling Contract Template?
As a remodeling contractor, you will frequently have to draft a contract at the customer's request. Writing the contract yourself every time can be time-consuming, which is why a home remodeling contract template may prove very efficient.
There are various platforms such as Bonsai where you can get the template, as well as some samples that are completely free of charge.
Who Uses Home Remodeling Contracts?
Home remodeling contracts may be used by a variety of people, including:
- Architects and designers
- Builders
- Freelancers that want to start a renovation business
- Subcontractors working for remodeling companies
- Remodeling contractors
Whenever a type of construction is due, the remodeling contractor has to draft a document that reflects the scope of the work. This will ensure that all the legal aspects are covered.
What Should You Add in a Remodeling Contract Template?
There are several things that you should add to a remodeling contract, including:
- Brief description of your project
- The address and name of your client
- The tasks you need to perform once you start offering your contractor's services
- List of materials and labor used
- Whether it's going to last for a specific amount of time or it's an ongoing process
- Payment terms such as cost, due date(s), and method of payment (i.e., cash, digital transfers such as Bonsai).
- The process to be followed for changes (if there are any)
- Dates for the project
- Escape hatch from the legal and binding contract, if needed (i.e., violations, etc.)
- Reasonable safety precautions that need to be followed
- A detailed list of terms and conditions
A home remodeling contract template will often tell you what you need to add to the document. You may also use an online sample to see exactly what your remodeling agreement should look like.
How to Write a Home Remodeling Contract
Home remodeling contracts have a certain pattern that you need to respect. If you are in charge of someone's home remodeling, there are some steps that you should take when writing the document. These are:
Discuss with the Homeowner
When you make a remodeling contract, you first need to discuss matters with the homeowner. What exactly are their goals? Do they have any particular ideas that they want to bring to life?
Also, what are your plans for the area or room? Before you draw the contract and overstep your boundaries, you need to discuss these specifications first.
List the Necessary Supplies and Resources
Now that you have a good idea of what you should do, you need to gather your supplies. List out the tools, materials, or other pieces of materials that you require to finish your project.
When you are making a list of the resources, don't forget to add the labor on the legal document. This way, the client will be able to come up with a budget.
Include the Payment Information
Whether you are working alone or have other workers assisting you, you need to put together a payment schedule. Decide on how you want to get paid for your remodeling services. Should it be by the end of the project, or do you want to get several payments over a specific timeframe?
Remember that depending on the circumstances, you may need your client to pay some money upfront so that you can get the supplies. Payment on the completion date only works if you can get the resources without paying for them beforehand.
Gather the Details
Last but not least, you have to gather some essential information from the parties that were involved. Start with the name and address of your client, as well as other relevant details.
Next, you should add your name to the contract and the names of other parties involved. Make sure to add the contact details as well, so that the client knows exactly who to call in case of an emergency.
FAQ
Home remodeling can bring several questions to light. Here are the most common ones asked by homeowners, along with their answers.
Is There a Difference between a Renovation Contract and a Remodeling Contract?
Both legal documents represent a type of home improvement contract. However, while renovation contract templates typically deals with restoring an object to its original state, remodeling involves certain alterations to the original structure.
Can I Get a Free Remodeling Contract Template?
Yes, there are several places where you can get a remodeling contract template for free. One example is Bonsai, where you can download a customizable document each time you have a contract to draw.
How Long Does a Remodel Usually Take?
The timeline of the remodeling process will depend mostly on the scope of the work. When drafting the home remodeling contract, the contractor will list down the services and set an estimated deadline. As an example, kitchen remodeling can take anything from three weeks to two months.
Should I Get an Attorney to Review the Entire Agreement?
Yes, you should call your attorney to review your home remodeling contract. This way, if any clauses might not be in your favor, your lawyer can help you with a dispute resolution.
Should My Contractor Charge Me Upfront for My Construction Contract?
Yes, it's normal for you to be charged upfront, after drafting the construction contract. Both the contractor and the people working for them will need the payment for labor and for materials, which is why you shouldn't be surprised if they ask for 15%-20% of the final costs upfront.
The Bottom Line
Home remodeling contracts may seem daunting, but as long as you have a good template to work with, there should be no issues. Whether you get it from Bonsai or draft the whole document yourself, make sure that you add as many details as possible. This will ensure that you respect the applicable law and that you are spared potential disputes.
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