A handyman contract template is a tool used to create a written agreement between the handyman and the client. The main aim of drafting this document is to protect the rights and interests of both parties. This document is also known as;
- Contractor agreements
- Handyman services agreements
- Work performance contracts
What is a handyman contract?
A handyman contract is a legally enforceable agreement that specifies the scope of work and payment terms for the task the handyman will perform. You must draft this agreement before the handyman will provide services to the client in exchange for compensation.
In addition, it doesn’t matter whether the project is simple or complicated having a written agreement is necessary to protect your rights.
Services that are provided by the handyman:
A handyman usually provides the following services;
- Pipework
- Fumigating the foundation
- Cleaning the gutters
- Minor repairs like a broken pane
- Door hinges
- Cleaning the roof.
- General maintenance work
- General repair works
- Minor construction works
Why should you use a handyman contract?
You should protect your rights whether you are the worker or the client. A handyman contract states all of the details of the job which helps to prevent missed expectations and unexpected changes. Also, it reduces the chance of the likelihood of a contract dispute later on.
Additionally, the signed agreement protects your business and allows you to seek help from the court if the client fails to pay. The handyman may have to provide various services and it is very easy to make mistakes and provide services below or above that doesn’t meet client standard. But, with the help of a contract, you will rarely make any mistakes as the contract lays out details of all the work you have to do.
What to include in a handyman contract?
Information to include in a handyman contract depends on the type of service at hand or what the parties want to include. However, it should include the following key details;
Details of parties
The agreement must have details of parties such as;
- Name of the handyman
- The handyman’s address
- Date when the contract starts
- Name of the customer
- Address of the customer
Scope of work
The scope of work contains an explanation of the services that will be performed by the handyman. It should be detailed so that you buy the exact materials the customer wants. For instance, paints are very sensitive and the slightest difference in the paint shade from the rest of the house will urge your client to reject the entire project. Thus, this is the most important section of the contract.
Contract price
It depends on the handyman either they charge the work per service or for all the services. Here, you have to state the price breakdown in detail including the down payment amount, and specify when the balance will be paid.
Include a clause in this section that describes the consequences of late payment. You can add a penalty of whatever amount you may want to include. State how you like to receive the payment either in hard cash, bank transfer, or check.
Contract modification
You can modify a handyman agreement in an agreed way. If the work is ongoing, you may change the scope. Discuss with your client before handling any extra work so that both of you can mutually modify the contract. Add a clause in the handyman service agreement that states when it is necessary to make changes in the contract.
Resolving differences
When two parties enter into an agreement, disputes are bound to arise so don’t break relationships that may affect many other clients. Both parties should sit together and talk to resolve the dispute. However, you may seek an arbitrator or go to court in case it becomes too difficult to solve the disputes.
Signatures
Leave space at the bottom of the handyman contract template for the signatures of both parties.
Different types of handyman contracts:
Let us discuss different types of handyman contracts;
Appliances repair handyman agreement
The homeowner should repair their home appliances from time to time rather than buying a new appliance. The most common type of service offered by a handyman is appliance repair. The contract included the following details;
- When is needed to be repaired
- The costs of repair
- Parts purchase
- The dates
Painting contracts
A wider scope of services is involved in painting like the handyman may have to
- Remove the old paint
- Clean the surface
- Paint both the interiors and exteriors of the house
Furthermore, the contract contains the details of the following items along with their costs;
- Specific paint to be purchased and its quantity
- Paint rollers
- Ladders
- Furniture covers
- Drop cloths
- Tapes
- Brushes
- Sandpapers and more
Installation of a wallboard (drywall)
Sometimes water can damage the wallboard and you may have to do a remodel. You need the drywall installation services from the handyman. The services of a handyman include measuring, cutting, and installing wallboards. The contract provides the following details about the wallboard;
- Type
- Color
- Texture
- Quality
Door and window repairs
Sometimes homeowners or offices need the services of window and door repairs including;
- Cleaning
- Removing broken panes
- Panes replacement
- Hinge repairs
- Window frame replacement
- Entire window replacement
Moreover, this type of handyman contract is neither labor nor cost-intensive as this type of work can be completed within a few hours. The handyman has to sign the document no matter how small the contract is.
Replacement of fixtures
The owners of homes and offices hire a handyman when the fixtures of home or office wear out or break over time. They hire them to replace that fixture. You don’t need licensed experts or interior design contractors who may demand higher costs for such replacements. The handyman replaces fixtures such as the lighting system, cabinets, etc.
Tile replacement or installation
The property owner may need the services of a handyman to perform the tasks of tile replacement or installation. Their job is to replace a few broken tiles or to replace an entire floor. When hiring a handyman, make sure they have all the skills that are required to perform the task. Moreover, the client must specify the type of tiles to be installed such as ceramic, marble, porcelain, granite, etc.
Smart home installations
The installation of a smart home or upgrade is another type of handyman service agreement. The handyman possesses a high level of skills to sign this type of contract and must be an expert in home electrical systems. Before signing a contract, the homeowner must check whether the handyman is licensed for the work.
Power washing
In power washing, a powerful machine is used to spray water while cleaning the following;
- House roof
- Driveway
- Garage floor
- Sidewalk
- Exterior walls
A powerful water compressor for spraying is the main equipment of the handyman to perform the task.
FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)
You need a handyman contract in the following situations;
1- When a business or individual needs the services of a handyman at their home or office.
2- When someone is hiring you as a handyman.
In the contract, you should organize the details in the following order;
1- The contact details of your client
2- The type of services you will be provided or the scope of work
3- The dates that indicate when the services will start and end
4- Payment method