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Owner Contractor Affidavit Waiver and Indemnity Agreement

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FRAMING CONTRACT

This Framing Contract (“Contract”), effective as of the date of the last party to sign below, is between , having an address at ("Contractor") and , having an address at ("Owner").

For valuable consideration the parties hereby agree as follows:

1. LIST OF DOCUMENTS TO BE INCORPORATED INTO THIS CONTRACT:

1. Oregon Construction Contractors Board Recommended Contract Addendum to Satisfy Contract Terms Requirement- OAR 812-012-0110

2. Consumer Protection Notice

3. Notice of Right to a Lien

4. Information Notice to Owner About Construction Liens

5. Maintenance Information and Schedule

6. Notice of Procedure

7. Notice of Compliance with the Homebuyer Protection Act (HPA)

2. SCOPE OF WORK: Framing shall be to the plans including all details. Floor joist layout shall be as best to avoid plumbing for tubs and toilets. Framing includes the installation of sill plates; rim joists; floor joists; sub flooring; plates; exterior and interior walls; ceiling joists; headers; rafters; roof sheathing; sub fascia and fascia; bridging; joist hangers; rough framing materials for stair jacks, treads and risers; collar ties; other attic bracing materials; roof overhang and soffit; rake boards; steel and/or wood girders; columns and posts; sill sealer under the sill plates; sheathing and siding the exterior walls; siding corners; interior and exterior decorative beams and posts; exterior moldings; drip edge/Z-bar (including trim materials over z-bar); windows; exterior doors (excepting the garage door); frame and case garage door as needed; back-out garage door as needed; ventilation materials; termite shield; furring blocks on concrete walls; bracing; stiffbacks; backing blocks; nailing blocks; shimming windows and doors; caulking and gluing continuous as needed; set all finish nails; insulation behind tubs located on exterior walls; drywall behind tubs as required; box in vent areas; box in heat runs as required; framing for future recessed fixtures; kitchen and bathroom cabinet drops; fire stopping as required; deck posts; deck girders; deck floor joists and flooring; deck handrail and seating; deck stair jacks, treads and risers; and . Contractor, who is licensed by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board, shall return all excess material and damaged materials. Contractor shall call for inspections of the work as required.

Framing Materials:

Sill Insulation: Termite Shield:
Bridging Material: Joist Hangers:
SubFloor Material: Size: Glue: Underlayment Material: Size: Glue:
Wall Sheathing Material: Size: Corner Brace Material:
Wall Siding Material: Size: Roof Sheathing Material: Size:
Flitch Plate Material/Size: Bolts: Nails-Framing Members: Siding:
Windows: Exterior Trim:
Exterior Doors:
Use Material Type Size Spacing Greatest Span Each Size
Sill PlateN/AN/A
Box Sill/Rim JoistN/AN/A
1st Floor-Floor Joists
2nd Floor-Floor Joists
Ceiling Joists
Rafters/Roof Trusses
Exterior Studs
Interior Studs
Top & Bottom PlatesN/AN/A
Headers, Windows & DoorsN/AN/A
Headers, Garage DoorN/AN/A
BeamsN/AN/A
Roof Bracing/Collar Ties

Exterior Trim

Exterior Trim Material Type Thickness Size
Fascia Board
Soffit
Siding Corners
Garage Door Trim
Window Trim
Door Trim
Rake Board
Exterior Beams
Exterior Posts

Flashing Material: Windows: Doors: Soffit Vents: Gable Vents:

WINDOWS:

Manufacturer/Style:

Material: Insulated Glass:

Screens: Storms:

Grilles: Shutters:

STAIRS:

Location Jacks Material Jacks Size Treads Material Treads Size Risers Material Risers Size
Basement
1st Floor
2nd Floor

Disappearing Stairs-Make and Model Number:

EXTERIOR DOORS: (Including Storm Doors)

Door Brand/Model/Material Size Thickness Hardware
Front
Rear
Sliding/Patio
Garage

3. WORK SITE: The Project shall be constructed on the property of Owner located at and more particularly described as (hereafter "the Work Site").

4. TIME OF COMPLETION: Contractor shall commence the work to be performed under this Contract on or before and shall substantially complete the work on or before .

5. PERMITS: Contractor shall apply for and obtain such permits and regulatory approvals as may be required by the local municipal/county government, the cost thereof shall be included as part of the Project price.

6. INSURANCE: Contractor shall maintain general liability, workers compensation and builder's risk insurance.

7. SURVEY AND TITLE: If the Project is near the Owner’s property boundary, Owner will point out property lines to the Contractor. If the Owner or Contractor has any doubt about the location of the property lines, Owner shall provide Contractor with boundary stakes through a licensed surveyor. In addition, Owner shall provide Contractor documentation that Owner has title to the Work Site and shall provide Contractor copies of any covenants, conditions, or restrictions that affect the Work Site.

8. CHANGES TO SCOPE OF WORK: Owner may make changes to the scope of the work, including changes to the drawings and specifications, from time to time during the construction of the Project. However, any such change or modification shall only be made by written "Change Order" signed by both parties. Such Change Orders shall become part of this Contract. Owner agrees to pay any increase in the cost of the Project as a result of a Change Order. In the event the cost of a Change Order is not known at the time a Change Order is executed, the Contractor shall estimate the cost thereof and Owner shall pay the actual cost whether or not it is in excess of the estimated cost.

9. CONTRACT PRICE:

{COST PLUS}

Owner agrees to pay Contractor the actual cost to Contractor of materials plus the sum of $ for performing the services set forth in the scope of the work. Contractor shall be paid as follows:

OR

{FIXED FEE}

Owner agrees to pay Contractor the sum of $ for performing the services set forth in the scope of the work. Contractor shall be paid as follows:

Contractor shall furnish Owner appropriate releases or waivers of lien for all work performed or materials provided at the time the next periodic payment shall be due.

10. LATE PAYMENT/DEFAULT: A failure to make payment for a period in excess of ten (10) days from the due date shall be deemed a material breach of this Contract. If payment is not made when due, Contractor may suspend work on the job until such time as all payments due have been made without breach of the Contract pending payment or resolution of any dispute. Owner agrees to pay a late charge of 1% of all payments that are more than ten (10) days late plus interest at the rate of 1% per month.

11. DESTRUCTION AND DAMAGE: If the Project is destroyed or damaged for any reason, except where such destruction or damage was caused by the sole negligence of the Contractor or its subcontractors, Owner shall pay Contractor for any additional work done by Contractor in rebuilding or restoring the Project to its condition prior to such destruction or damage. If the estimated cost of replacing work already accomplished by Contractor exceeds 20 percent of the Contract price, either the Contractor or Owner may terminate this Contract. Upon termination by either party, Contractor shall be excused from further performance under this Contract and Owner shall pay Contractor a percentage of the Contract price in proportion to the amount of work accomplished prior to the destruction or damage.

12. ASSIGNMENT: Neither party may assign this Contract, or payments due under the Contract, without the other party’s written consent. Any such assignment shall be void and of no effect.

13. INTERPRETATION:

(a) Interpretation of Documents. The Contract, drawings, and specifications are intended to supplement one another. In the event of a conflict, the specifications shall control the drawings, and the Contract shall control both. If work is displayed on the drawings but not called for in the specifications, or if the work is called for in the specifications but not displayed on the drawings, Contractor shall be required to perform the work as though it were called for and displayed in both documents.

(b) Entire Agreement. This Contract constitutes the entire agreement of the parties. No other agreements, oral or written, pertaining to the work to be performed under this Contract exists between the parties. This Contract may only be modified only by a written agreement signed by both parties.

(c) Governing Law. This Contract shall be interpreted and governed in accordance with the laws of the State of Oregon.

14. ATTORNEYS’ FEES AND COSTS: If any party to this Contract brings a cause of action against the other party arising from or relating to this Contract, the prevailing party in such proceeding shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and court costs.

15. PERFORMANCE:

(a) Contractor may, at its discretion, engage licensed subcontractors to perform work pursuant this Contract provided Contractor shall remain fully responsible for the proper completion of the Project.

(b) All work shall be completed in a workman-like manner and in compliance with all building codes and applicable laws. To the extent required by law, all work shall be performed by individuals duly licensed and authorized by law to perform said work.

(c) Contractor agrees to remove all debris and leave the premises in broom clean condition.

16. WARRANTY: Contractor's warranty shall be limited to due to improper framing labor techniques which arise and become known within one (1) year from the date hereof, except for the following allowances: floor variance shall not exceed 1/4 inch in 32 inches, bowed or out of plumb walls shall not exceed 1/4 inch in 32 inches, and floors may squeak. All said defects arising after one (1) year and defects in material are not warranted by Contractor. Contractor hereby assigns to Owner all warranties on materials as provided by the manufacturer of such materials.

CONTRACTOR:

Signature:

Print Name & Title:

Date:

CCB License Number:

Name of License Holder:

Address of License Holder:

Phone Number of License Holder:

OWNER:

Signature:

Print Name:

Address:

Date:

NOTICES TO OWNER

CCB Recommended Contract Addendum to Satisfy Contract Terms Requirement

OAR 812-012-0110

1. List of Required Construction Contractor Board (CCB) Consumer Notices

Oregon law requires construction contractors to give homeowners certain notices before and during a construction project. The following is a list of the forms. It is important to read and understand these forms.

a. Consumer Protection Notice.

b. Information Notice to Owner About Construction Liens

c. Notice of Procedure

2. Explanation of Property Owner’s Rights

a. Consumers have the right to receive the products and services agreed to in the contract.

b. Consumers have the right to resolve disputes through means outlined in the contract.

c. Consumers have the right to file a complaint with the CCB. Any arbitration or mediation clauses in the contract may prevent the CCB from processing.

3. Arbitration/Mediation Clause

a. An “arbitration or mediation clause” is a written portion of a contract designed to settle how the parties will solve disputes that may arise during, or after the construction project. Arbitration clauses are very important. They may limit a consumer’s ability to have their dispute resolved by the Oregon court system or the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.

b. The following box should be checked by the contractor:

This contract contains an arbitration or mediation clause.

This contract DOES NOT contain an arbitration or mediation clause.

c. The Oregon Construction Contractors Board urges consumers to read and understand the entire contract – including any arbitration clause before signing a construction contract. Consumers are not obligated to accept contract terms proposed by the contractor, including arbitration provisions. These may be negotiated to the satisfaction of both parties.

4. Offer of Written Warranty (New Residential Structure Only)

Purchaser acknowledges the contractor has offered warranty against defects in materials and workmanship to the purchaser. Buyer has accepted or rejected the offer of warranty. (see appendix in contract.)

Purchaser:

Signature:

Date:

Consumer Signature:

CONSUMER PROTECTION NOTICE

Actions to help make your project successful

(ORS 701.330 (1))

Oregon law requires contractors to provide the homeowner with this notice at the time of written contract, for work on a residential structure. This notice explains licensing, bond and insurance requirements, and steps that consumers can take to help protect their interests.

START OUT YOUR PROJECT RIGHT

1. Make sure your contractor is properly licensed before you sign a contract. Visit www.oregon.gov/ccb, and click on the link, Check on a Contractor’s License, or call our offices at 503-378-4621. To be licensed in Oregon, contractors must take training and pass a test on business practices and law. Licensing is not a guarantee of the contractor’s work.

• A license requires the contractor to maintain a surety bond and liability insurance. The CCB surety bond provides a limited amount of financial security if the contractor is ordered to pay damages in contract disputes. It is not intended to be a safety net for consumer damages. Consumers with large projects may wish to look into performance bonds. Liability insurance coverage provides for property damage and bodily injury caused by the contractor. It does not cover contract disputes, including poor workmanship.

• If your contractor is not licensed - the CCB bond and dispute resolution services will not be available to you.

2. What you should know about bids, contracts, and change orders:

• Bids - Do not automatically accept the lowest bid - A low bid may make it necessary for the contractor to use lower quality materials and to cut corners in workmanship.

• Contracts and Change Orders - Always get it in writing. Your contractor is required to provide a written contract if the contract price is more than $2000. The CCB recommends that all contracts be in writing.

• Contracts should be as detailed as possible - Some items to include are materials and costs, permits, estimated start and completion dates, debris removal, and arbitration clauses. Make sure the contractor’s name, CCB number, and contact information is included in the contract.

• Read and understand your contract before signing it - Don’t be pressured into signing your contract without taking the time needed to go through it. Make sure it includes enough details to avoid misunderstandings and to protect you and your property.

3. Additional contract information you should know:

• A Payment Schedule - should be included in the contract. Stick to the schedule and never pay in full for a project before the work is complete.

• Special Note on Liens - Subcontractors and material suppliers that work on your project are often paid by the general contractor. If a general contractor fails to pay, the subcontractor may file a lien on your property. For information on construction liens, visit the CCB’s Consumer Help Page at www.oregon.gov/ccb, or contact an attorney.

• Warranty on new residential construction - Contractors must make an offer of a warranty when constructing a new residential structure. Consumers may accept or refuse the warranty.

4. If you should have a problem with your contractor - You can file a complaint with the CCB against a licensed contractor within one year of the substantial completion of work on your project. Contact the CCB office at 503-378-4621 for help.

Visit the CCB website at for more information on having a successful project. www.oregon.gov/ccb

Contractor:

Signature:

CCB#:

Property Owner:

NOTICE OF RIGHT TO A LIEN

WARNING: READ THIS NOTICE. PROTECT YOURSELF FROM PAYING ANY CONTRACTOR OR SUPPLIER TWICE FOR THE SAME SERVICE.

To: Date of mailing:

Owner's address

This is to inform you that has begun to provide ordered by for improvements to property you own. The property is located at .

A lien may be claimed for all materials, equipment, labor and services furnished after a date that is eight days, not including Saturdays, Sundays and other holidays, as defined in ORS 187.010, before this notice was mailed to you.

Even if you or your mortgage lender have made full payment to the contractor who ordered these materials or services, your property may still be subject to a lien unless the supplier providing this notice is paid.

THIS IS NOT A LIEN. It is a notice sent to you for your protection in compliance with the construction lien laws of the State of Oregon.

This notice has been sent to you by:

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE:

INFORMATION NOTICE TO OWNER ABOUT CONSTRUCTION LIENS

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR PROTECTION

Under Oregon's laws, those who work on your property or provide labor, equipment, services or materials and are not paid have a right to enforce their claim for payment against your property. This claim is known as a construction lien. If your contractor fails to pay subcontractors, material suppliers, rental equipment suppliers, service providers or laborers or neglects to make other legally required payments, the people who are owed money can look to your property for payment, even if you have paid your contractor in full.

The law states that all people hired by a contractor to provide you with materials, equipment, labor or services must give you a notice of right to a lien to let you know what they have provided.

WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF ARE:

— RECOGNIZE that this notice of right to a lien may result in a lien against your property unless all those supplying a notice of right to a lien have been paid.

— LEARN more about the lien laws and the meaning of this notice by contacting the Construction Contractors Board, an attorney or the firm sending this notice.

— ASK for a statement of the labor, equipment, services or materials provided to your property from each party that sends you a notice of right to a lien.

— WHEN PAYING your contractor for materials, equipment, labor or services, you may make checks payable jointly to the contractor and the firm furnishing materials, equipment, labor or services for which you have received a notice of right to a lien.

— OR use one of the methods suggested by the "Information Notice to Owners." If you have not received such a notice, contact the Construction Contractors Board.

— GET EVIDENCE that all firms from whom you have received a notice of right to a lien have been paid or have waived the right to claim a lien against your property.

— CONSULT an attorney, a professional escrow company or your mortgage lender.

Signing this Information Notice verifies only that you have received it. Your signature does not give your contractor or those who provide material, labor, equipment, or services, any additional rights to place a lien on your property.

Job Site Address:

CONTRACTOR:

Signature:

Date:

PROPERTY OWNER:

Signature:

Date:

NOTICE OF PROCEDURE REGARDING RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION ARBITRATIONS AND LAWSUITS

Oregon law contains important requirements that homeowners must follow before starting an arbitration or court action against any contractor, subcontractor, or supplier (materials or equipment) for construction defects.

Before you start an arbitration or court action, you must do the following:

1. Deliver a written notice of any conditions that you believe are defective to the contractor, subcontractor, or supplier that you believe is responsible for the alleged defect.

2. Allow the contractor, subcontractor, supplier, or its agent, to visually inspect the possible defects and also allow the contractor, subcontractor, or supplier to do reasonable testing.

3. Provide the contractor, subcontractor, supplier, or its agent, the opportunity to make an offer to repair or pay for the defects. You are not obligated to accept any offer made.

There are strict procedures and deadlines that must be followed under Oregon law. Failure to follow those procedures or meet those deadlines will affect your right to start an arbitration or court action.

You should contact an attorney for information on the procedures and deadlines required under Oregon law.

Your contractor is supplying this notice to you as required by Oregon law.

CONTRACTOR:

Signature of Authorized Representative:

Date:

HOMEOWNER:

Signature:

Date:

NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE HOMEBUYER PROTECTION ACT (HPA)

In compliance with Oregon law, the below mentioned Seller has selected to comply with the requirements of ORS 87.007.

1. ADDRESS or DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

Address or Location City, State Zip Code

2. DATE OF PURCHASE (CHOOSE ONE)

A. ORS 87.007 (which includes the provisions listed in part B of this form) does not apply to the sale of the above described Property.

B. ORS 87.007 applies to the sale of the above described Property. Seller complied with ORS 87.007(2) by (check which one applies):

1. Title Insurance as provided for in ORS 87.007(2)(a).

2. Retained in Escrow not less than 25 percent of the sale price as provided for in ORS 87.007(2)(b).

3. Bond or Letter of Credit as provided for in ORS 87.007(2)(c).

4. Written Waivers received from every person claiming a lien as provided for in ORS 87.007(2)(d).

5. Completed Sale After the Deadline for perfecting liens as provided for in ORS 87.007(2)(e).

3. SELLER INFORMATION

Company Name (if applicable)

Agent of Company or Individual Seller

Title of Company Agent (if applicable)

Signature Date

4. BUYER INFORMATION

Buyer Name

Agent of Company or Individual Buyer

Title of Company Agent (if applicable)

Signature Date

INSTRUCTIONS

These instructions are provided to assist sellers of residential property with the Oregon Homebuyer Protection Act (HPA), codified in ORS 87.007. The HPA protects residential property buyers against construction liens filed in county records after the sale of the property where such liens arise out of new construction, additions or remodeling within 90 days of the date of the sale.

Disclaimer

These instructions do not constitute legal advice. For questions, please contact an attorney.

Who must complete this form?

A residential property owner selling –

• A new single family residence, condominium unit or residential building (containing four or fewer dwelling units), or

• An existing single family residence, condominium unit or residential building (containing four or fewer dwelling units) that had at least $50,000 worth of improvements, additions or remodeling completed within 90 days of the date of the sale.

Instructions for Section A

If the property fits the description above, but the seller knows that no person may file a lien against the property, the seller may check the box in Section A of the form.

Instructions for Section B

If the seller knows that it is possible for someone to file a lien against the property, the seller must check Section B of the form and at least one corresponding box that applies to the action the seller took, or will take, to comply with the HPA.

Box 1 Title Insurance – The seller has or will purchase or provide an owner’s extended coverage title insurance policy or equivalent that does not except filed or unfiled claims of lien. A standard title insurance or a lender’s title insurance policy may not be sufficient. See ORS 87.007(2)(a).

Box 2 Retain in Escrow – The seller will arrange to retain in escrow an amount of not less than 25 percent of the sales price of the property. The escrow will pay any claims of lien not paid by the seller filed after the date of the sale. Any unused funds will be released to the seller upon fulfillment of the following conditions:

• Claims of lien have not been filed against the property and at least 90 days have passed since the date the construction was completed.

• One or more claims of lien were filed against the property, at least 135 days have passed since the date the liens were filed, and the liens were released or waived. See ORS 87.007(2)(b).

Box 3 Bond or Letter of Credit – The seller has or will maintain a bond or letter of credit. A Construction Contractors Board bond, required for licensure under ORS chapter 701, is not sufficient. See ORS 87.007(2)(c).

Box 4 Written Waivers – The seller has or will obtain written waivers from every subcontractor or supplier who claims liens of $5,000 or more. Provide copies of the waivers to the buyer no later than the date of the sale. (The CCB recommends consulting an attorney for assistance with preparing forms for waivers). See ORS 87.007(2)(d).

Box 5 Completed Sale after the Deadline – The sale will not be completed until at least 75 days after the completion of all construction. See ORS 87.007(2)(e).

Additional Instructions

The seller and the buyer must sign and date the form on or before the closing date of the sale. Both parties should retain a copy of the form. Compliance with the HPA is the sole responsibility of the seller.

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What this Owner Contractor Affidavit Waiver and Indemnity Agreement is

The Owner Contractor Affidavit Waiver and Indemnity Agreement is a written contract used in construction and property projects in which a property owner, general contractor, or prime contractor confirms payment status, waives certain lien or claim rights, and agrees to indemnify another party for specified liabilities. It combines an affidavit of payment or nonpayment, a waiver of mechanic's lien or stop-notice rights to the extent described, and an indemnity clause shifting defense and loss responsibility. Parties use it to document project payment history, confirm releases, and reduce subsequent lien and litigation risk.

Why this combined affidavit, waiver and indemnity matters

It creates a clear written record of payment and releases, reduces the risk of future lien claims, and allocates responsibility for defense and damages. For owners and contractors, the document promotes finality of payment and clearer dispute resolution expectations.

Why this combined affidavit, waiver and indemnity matters

Typical parties and roles that complete this agreement

Use consistent legal names and signatory authority to ensure enforceability and to support recording or lien-release procedures where required.

  • Owner or owner’s representative confirming final payment and requesting release
  • General contractor or prime contractor providing warranty of payments to subs
  • Subcontractors or suppliers asserting payment status and accepting waiver terms

Who can legally sign and why

Owner / Authorized Officer

A corporate owner must sign through an authorized officer or agent (board resolution or power of attorney may be required). Individuals or sole owners sign in their personal capacity; ensure the name matches title documents to avoid identity disputes.

Contractor / Authorized Representative

A contractor signs either as the business entity via an officer or as an individual when licensed personally. Licensing records and signature authority should be documented; for lenders or escrow agents, signatory authority may require written delegation.

Core sections you will find in a professional Owner Contractor Affidavit Waiver and Indemnity Agreement

A well-drafted agreement organizes obligations and releases clearly so parties understand what is being waived, what is affirmed, and how indemnity operates in the event of claims.

Affidavit of Payment

A sworn statement listing invoices paid, amounts withheld (if any), payment dates, and the scope of work or materials covered to support a lien release or claim that no further amounts are owed.

Waiver/Release Clause

A conditional or unconditional waiver of mechanic’s lien, stop-notice, or bond claim that specifies whether the waiver applies to the present draw, final payment, or partial payments.

Indemnity Provision

A clause requiring one party to defend and indemnify the other for specified claims, costs, attorney fees, and losses arising from work, materials, or actions identified in the agreement.

Representations

Statements confirming licensure, authority to enter the agreement, absence of outstanding liens except listed exceptions, and accuracy of payment records.

Notary and Witness Block

Space for notarial acknowledgment and witness signatures if state law or the contracting parties require notarization or witness attestation for recording or self-proving purposes.

Governing Law and Remedies

Choice of law, dispute resolution method, and remedies available for breach, including whether attorney fees and costs are recoverable.

Essential information fields to include and preserve

Parties: Full legal names of owner, contractor, and any lender or escrow agent
Project: Project address and brief description of work
Payment Details: Amounts paid, dates, and invoices or change order references
Scope Covered: Explicit statement of which work or materials are released
Effective Date: MM/DD/YYYY date when the waiver or indemnity takes effect
Signatures: Signer name, title, date, and notarization where required

How to complete and execute the agreement step by step

Follow these steps to fill, verify, sign, and retain the document to preserve release and indemnity effects.

  • 01
    Prepare: Collect payment records, invoices, and lien waiver forms that the affidavit will reference.
  • 02
    Complete Fields: Fill in parties, project, amounts, and effective date per the fillable fields guide.
  • 03
    Authenticate: Confirm signer authority and have documents notarized or witnessed if required by state law.
  • 04
    Distribute & Retain: Send executed copies to all parties and retain originals per retention requirements.

Configuring a digital workflow for online completion and tracking

Set the online workflow to capture signatures, identity evidence, and an audit trail for enforceability and recordkeeping.

Field Configuration
Signature Fields Required, named signer, date stamp
Authentication Email + SMS code or higher for contractor/lender signers
Notary Integration Enable remote online notarization where accepted
Audit Trail Capture IP, timestamps, and action log

Digital signing and technical capabilities to consider

Ensure the chosen platform can produce a tamper-evident signed file and supports retention and export in standard formats for future recording or dispute resolution.

  • Document Formats: PDF and DOCX support for editable templates
  • Integrations: Works with Procore, NetSuite, Salesforce, and cloud storage
  • Security: TLS in transit, AES-256 at rest, and SOC 2/ISO controls

Where to file, send, or submit the executed agreement

Identify the correct recipients and recording steps to preserve lien releases and indemnity claims.

  • Project File: Provide executed copy to owner, contractor, and project records
  • Lender or Escrow: Send to lender or escrow agent if payment routing or release depends on financing
  • County Recorder: Record only when statutory lien release form is required by county
  • Legal Counsel: Send for review when indemnity scope or exceptions are contested

Common penalties and legal risks from incorrect or incomplete agreements

Invalid Release: Overbroad waivers may be unenforceable, exposing parties to lien claims
Tax Exposure: Incorrect payment records can trigger IRS disputes or backup withholding
Indemnity Costs: Broad indemnities can require defense costs and attorney fees
Recording Rejection: Missing notarization or incorrect names can cause county recorder rejection
Statute Issues: State lien statutes differ; failure to follow specific statutory language can void release
Ineffective Signature: Improper eSignature method may fail the ESIGN/UETA validity test

Frequent mistakes to avoid when preparing the affidavit and waiver

  • Using informal names or abbreviations that do not match legal registry entries
  • Failing to list reserved exceptions such as disputed change orders or retainage
  • Skipping notarization or witness steps required by local recording rules
  • Using a general release when the project requires a conditional or partial waiver

Timelines and deadlines that typically affect these agreements

Observe timing rules for lien notices, release timing, and tax reporting when finalizing waivers and indemnities.

Payment-based Waiver Timing:

Conditional waivers apply upon receipt of specified payment

Final Waiver Timing:

Final waivers are executed at project close or final payment

Recording Window:

Record releases promptly if county requires recorded release to clear title

Tax Reporting:

Retain payment records for at least 3 years for IRS audits (IRC §6501(a))

Dispute Period:

Check state lien statutes for the time to file lien claims or bond claims

Practical tips for accurate and defensible completion

Follow these best practices to reduce ambiguity and preserve enforceability.

Use precise language
Define whether the waiver is conditional, unconditional, partial, or final and identify the exact payment or draw being released.
Document supporting evidence
Attach or reference invoices, lien waivers, and change orders to avoid later factual disputes.
Confirm authority
Obtain corporate resolutions or power of attorney if a signatory acts on behalf of an entity.
Retain executed originals
Store signed originals and maintain tamper-evident digital copies with audit trails for the retention period.

Real-world examples of how this agreement is used

Representative scenarios show common uses and outcomes.

Owner Final Release

An owner signs a final affidavit confirming final payment and releases the contractor of further claim

  • Contractor provides final invoice and lien waivers
  • The release cleared title for sale and reduced a potential lien dispute by documenting payments and exceptions in one executed instrument.

Partial Draw Waiver

A subcontractor provides a conditional waiver for a progress payment

  • Waiver lists invoices covered and retained amounts
  • The conditional language protected the subcontractor until funds cleared while allowing the owner to proceed with the draw and construction progress.

Comparing eSignature plan features for executing waivers and indemnities

Vendor pricing and feature availability vary; signNow appears first to show a representative cost and capability profile for typical affidavit and waiver workflows.

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 Free trial available Free trial available Free trial available Free trial available
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

Frequently asked questions and troubleshooting notes

Answers to common questions about enforceability, notarization, eSigning, and record retention for waiver and indemnity agreements.


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