Scope of Work
Precise description of tasks, materials, workmanship standards, drawings or specifications, and reference to accepted industry standards or project schedules to avoid later disputes.
A clear written agreement reduces disputes by documenting expectations for workmanship, schedule, payment, and changes. It protects owners from unexpected charges and protects contractors by creating enforceable payment terms and lien remedies under state mechanic’s lien laws.
The agreement is used by a small set of consistent roles in construction and property management.
A properly executed agreement helps each role meet licensing, insurance, and lien-proofing requirements while streamlining approvals and payments.
Precise description of tasks, materials, workmanship standards, drawings or specifications, and reference to accepted industry standards or project schedules to avoid later disputes.
Total contract sum, unit prices if applicable, deposit and progress payment schedule, retainage terms, invoice timing, and late-payment interest or remedies to enforce timely payment.
Procedure for written change orders, price adjustment method, approval authority, and timing; require signatures before work begins on changed scope.
Allocation of responsibility for permits, proof of required insurance limits, certificate of insurance naming the owner as additional insured when needed, and workers' compensation.
Express workmanship and material warranty terms, start date, warranty period, and process for making claims and correcting defects.
Mechanic's lien protection language, requirement for conditional or unconditional lien waivers with payments, and steps to resolve disputed claims.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Template | Use a standard contract template with locked core clauses and editable exhibits. |
| Signer Order | Owner first, then contractor; allow subcontractor signatures if required. |
| Required Fields | Signature, printed name, title, date, and invoice reference number. |
| Authentication | Email link or SMS code; stronger KBA or ID verification for high-value projects. |
Ensure the signing platform supports secure formats, required authentication, and archive access for future enforcement.
Selecting a platform that supports audit trails, export to common formats, and integrations with project systems reduces administrative friction.
Date contract begins and warranty clock starts; enter MM/DD/YYYY.
Specify a start date or days after permits are obtained.
Define final completion or substantial completion milestone and acceptance process.
State payment terms, often net 30 days after invoice or milestone.
Specify warranty length, commonly one year for workmanship unless otherwise agreed.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial (no card) | Varies by promotion | Varies by promotion | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Premium tier) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies by plan |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
The contractor should be signed by an owner, officer, or authorized representative. If a business entity signs, include printed name, title, and evidence of authorization to bind the entity to avoid later challenges.
The owner must sign as the contracting party; for corporate or trust-owned property, an authorized signatory or trustee must sign and show proof of authority or board resolution when required.
Client needs a heated paver patio replaced after freeze-thaw damage
Building owner requires historic brick repointing on three elevations