Builder's contract

Short version
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Key features

This is a short contract between a general builder and a domestic client for work on a residential project. The document has been designed to be easy to use and of minimal length so as not to make it look overly formal for a straightforward building task.It helps protect the tradesman against non-payment and claims by the client. It also allows you to complies with consumer law, notably the Consumer Contracts (ICAC) Regulations.The builder may be self-employed or working through a company structure.
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  • Length:8 pages (2200 words)
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About this document

This contract has been kept simple and short in length so that you can use it on the smallest of jobs while still complying with your legal obligations and giving yourself protection against the client not paying or claiming that the work done was not as agreed. 

Like our longer contracts, this template covers just those areas where you most need legal strength: limiting your liability if things go wrong, cash collection, and payment for extras. It provides a simple way to deal with the legal requirements of the European Union (Consumer Information, Cancellation and Other Rights) Regulations 2013.

This contract also contains drafting notes to make quite clear what the text means and to advise you on choosing from the options we give.

Note: that this document is drawn for use by a general builder or tradesman engaged to work on residential works such as building an external wall, fitting a bathroom, or fitting insulation.

It does not comply with the Construction Contracts Act 2013 and therefore is not suitable for work worth more than €10,000 or if the floor area of residential property is not more than 200 square metres.

Alternative contracts

This contract is short and most suitable for a sole trader on a straightforward job. If you want something more suitable for a larger domestic project, look at this agreement for small works.

Contents

  • All about the contract - the ground rules
  • Special factors of which the client should be aware
  • Model terms for payment
  • Alternative payment arrangements
  • Safety and insurance
  • Confidentiality: no using social networks
  • Limitation of liability
  • Uncontrollable events
  • Miscellaneous legal matters
Sample builder's contractFront cover

Recent reviews

Great Service
24 April 2015
I was a little worried about buying an 'off the shelf' contract online, however, it proved to be exactly what I was looking for. The document was easily customised to suit my needs. It provides protection for myself and my clients and helps me to project a professional image.

I have recommended Net Lawman to several colleagues already and will continue to do so.
Eugene McDonnell
Helpful contract
08 March 2018
The contract we downloaded was very helpful. We were very happy that it covered everything we needed and that we could tailor it to suit our needs.
We were very satisfied with the quality and comprehensiveness of the document and found the product very good value. Thanks!!
Brett McMartin
Review of the Australian version
Easily Understood
27 March 2020
Your contract is easily read. Nice and easy without too much jargon etc. The reason l didn't give you a 5 is l don't want to spoil you and l don't like surveys.
Greg Earp
Review of the Australian version
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