Objectives
State the project goals and acceptance criteria, for example functional plumbing, ADA clearance if required, and finish standards so that all parties measure completion consistently and avoid subjective disputes.
A complete SOW aligns expectations, limits scope creep, and protects all parties by documenting deliverables, timelines, payment triggers, and approval steps. It reduces disputes and supports prompt invoicing and lien prevention.
The SOW is prepared by the party managing the project and shared with every contracting party for review and signature.
Clear role assignment in the SOW shortens review cycles and helps ensure permits, inspections, and insurance are in place before work begins.
State the project goals and acceptance criteria, for example functional plumbing, ADA clearance if required, and finish standards so that all parties measure completion consistently and avoid subjective disputes.
Spell out included and excluded work (fixtures, demolition extent, hidden conditions, disposal). Explicit exclusions prevent contractors from assuming additional responsibilities without adjustment to price or schedule.
Provide milestone dates, lead times for long‑lead items, and expected work hours. Tie schedule commitments to liquidated damages or extensions for permit delays when appropriate.
Define inspection points, testing procedures (water pressure tests, electrical checks), and remedy windows. Clarify the sign‑off process and responsible approver for each deliverable.
Describe the process for change orders, approvals, cost adjustments, and schedule impacts. Require written change orders before work outside the original scope begins.
Link payments to milestones, specify retainage, and list invoicing requirements such as lien waivers and proof of permits or certificates of insurance.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signature Authentication | Email link or SMS code; stronger auth for high‑value jobs. |
| Conditional Routing | Auto‑route change orders to owner and PM for approval. |
| Template Reuse | Create templates for repeatable SOWs and standard clauses. |
| Reminders & Deadlines | Configure automated reminders and escalation rules. |
Confirm platform support for required file types, signer authentication, audit trails, and integrations before eSigning.
Date the owner approves the SOW and authorizes work.
When onsite work is scheduled to begin.
Dates for critical activities like rough‑in and tile complete.
Target date for punch list and final sign‑off.
Invoice submission and Net terms, and retainage release.
Owner approves SOW, selections, and permits are arranged.
Site cleared and ready for rough‑in trades to begin.
Plumbing and electrical inspected prior to wall closures.
Punch list resolved and owner signs final acceptance.
| 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 | Yes, 7‑day trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Check vendor plans | Check vendor plans | Check vendor plans | Check vendor plans |
| 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 |