Handyman Contract Template

Sometimes, extra muscle is needed around the house. But before keys change hands, let's talk about handyman contracts. These contracts aren’t just boring paperwork. By spelling out exactly what needs to be done, when it'll be finished, and how much it'll cost, it creates a win for everyone involved. They're the answer to a smooth and stress-free collab!

What is a Handyman Contract?

Think of a handyman contract like a trusty sidekick that's got your back! It lays out the details of the work, payment, and other important conditions. It's a project lifesaver! With a contract, you'll avoid misunderstandings and headaches. A handyman contract gives everyone the lowdown on:

• What needs fixing (scope of work)
• How much it'll cost (payment terms)
• When it'll get done (timelines)
• Other essential duties (materials, permits, etc.)

What Services Do Handymen Offer?

Handymen can save the day with their wide range of services, from minor repairs to small-scale home improvements. Here's a rundown of the types of things they can do:

• Fix-It Services
  • General Repairs: leaky faucets, broken doors, drywall patching, and more
  • Plumbing: leak fixes, drain unclogging, fixture installation
  • Electrical Work: light fixture replacement, ceiling fan installation, outlet repair
• Remodeling and Repair Services
  • Painting: interior, exterior, touch-ups, and full-room makeovers
  • Carpentry: shelf building, furniture repair, trim installation
• Other Services:
  • Assembly Services: furniture assembly, appliance installation, and home equipment setup
  • Maintenance Tasks: gutter cleaning, pressure washing, seasonal home checks
  • Home Improvements: new flooring, hardware updates, and home aesthetic enhancements

Handymen are the ultimate home helpers! They can tackle any small task or project, saving the client time and stress.

What to Include in the Contract

Let's talk about the nitty-gritty of handyman contracts. What should you include?

• Scope of Work: Be clear about what needs to be done. If a leaky faucet needs to be fixed, shelves put up, and a fresh coat of paint, spell it out. The more details, the better. 
• Payment Terms: How much will it cost, and when do you pay? This section spells out the payment plan. Will payment be upfront, in installments, or after the job? Be clear about any deposits, progress payments, and the final bill. This way, there are no surprises.
• Duration and Deadlines: When will the work start and finish? This section lays out the timeline. Deadlines can also be added for specific tasks if needed. Want to speed things up? Add a bonus for early finishes. Or, if delays are a big deal, include penalties. 
• Materials and Supplies: Who's buying the paint, nails, and other supplies? This section states who's responsible for materials. If the handyman is to bring the supplies, get a list and estimate the costs. No surprises here! Knowing exactly what materials are being used keeps everyone on the same page and prevents unexpected costs.
• Insurance and Liability: Accidents happen sometimes. Spell out what kind of insurance the handyman needs, like general liability to cover any damage and workers' comp. Also, be clear about who's responsible for getting and keeping the insurance up-to-date.
• Change Orders: Plans change, right? This section outlines how to handle surprise requests. It should say who gets to approve changes, how they're kept track of, and how much extra it'll cost. No surprises, just clear communication.
• Quality Standards: Everyone wants their home to look and function at its best, right? This section sets the bar for how good the work should be. It includes rules or guidelines the handyman needs to follow, like building codes or safety standards.

When is the Best Time to Send the Contract?

So, when should the contract be dropped on the handyman? The sweet spot is after chatting about what needs doing and agreeing on the price. Sending it early means everyone's on the same page before the first hammer swings.

Consequences of Not Using a Contract

• Disputes Over Scope of Work: Disagreements about what's included and what's extra can turn a simple fix into a major headache.
• Payment Issues: Not being clear about money upfront can lead to some serious disagreements. Avoid payment headaches by having a clear plan.
• Liability Concerns: Accidents happen, but no one wants to be stuck with the bill.
• Unclear Timelines: Set clear start and end dates to keep the project on track.

Create a Handyman Contract With Butterscotch

Need somewhere to start for your handyman contract? Simplify the process with Butterscotch's customizable templates! Here's why you'll love us:

• Templates On Demand: Add the info you need, change whatever sections don't work, and make the template fit your needs. You can even personalize your contract by adding your personal branding.
• Send with a Click: Forget printing, scanning, and mailing. Securely send contracts electronically!
• Electronic Signatures: Get them signed with electronic signatures by all parties from anywhere.
• Status Tracking: Monitor the status of every contract at a glance, from changes made and when another party has signed.
• Centralized Storage: All your documents are securely stored in one digital location, accessible anytime, anywhere.