Contracts question?

[justmjc]

Hello everyone. I have a question about using or not using contracts. I personally don't use concrete contracts and haven't used them for years. Basically, what I do provide is an agreement for service stating a set price and a section for obtaining client information. I clearly state that the contract can be terminated by either party for any reason, at any time, under any circumstances. I also include a section that states that by initialing this section you understand and agree to legally allow myself and my employees on your premises to provide the services needed, as needed. I believe this is the only protection I need. It has worked well for years.

I know this is technically a contract, but no where near binding to either party. Actually, in my advertisments, I've heard this was a good selling point. After my accounts find out and read the agreement, they sign right away. I think I've only had 1 person not sign on the spot in the last 4 years. Not to bad.

Question to the people using contracts. Are you including something in those contracts that perhaps I should? Or should I seriously think about using a more protective one? I just feel that if I can't provide the level of service they need, they should feel free to leave. I have no problem with that. If they provide a problem, then the collections agency is a phone call away.

Mike

[Phil Nilsson]

It's probably best to drop the word (contract) and use the word agreement in its place. For residential, call your lineup of offers a Job Proposal ... it's a list they sign off on because they accept the work, price, terms etc. etc. Tell them it's to prevent misunderstandings later ... as to what is supposed to be done and the prices.

Phil

P.S. There's a copy of a work proposal in the "free stuff" section of this site.

another P.S. Happy Birthday GrassMaster may you have many more!

[Fido]

I don't use contracts or any type of written agreement for residential mowing, only for commerical.

I do use agreements for large mulch, hedge, clean-up and other maintenance-type jobs for residential customers who are not regulars. Regulars I just bill monthly for any work done.

For any landscape alteration work over $200, I always use a contract because it's the law in my state. The contract must contain certain information including business address, start and end dates, a 3 day cancellation period if the customer changes their mind, and a cancellation form with very specific language, among other things.

[mikeslawnservice]

I'm thinking of going the Agreement route myself next year. It sound alot better than Contract. People hear contract and get scared. Plus who wants to be stuck in a contract with a customer who is nothing but problems come mid-season?