Free Remodeler Contract Template
This free remodeling contract template includes party identification, comprehensive scope of work with plans and specifications, subcontractor management clauses, milestone-based payment schedule, change order procedures, material selection and procurement terms, warranty provisions, lien waiver requirements, and signature blocks. Download the PDF to protect your remodeling business on every project.
What's Included
- Party identification with contractor license and insurance details
- Comprehensive scope of work referencing plans and specifications
- Subcontractor management and responsibility clause
- Milestone-based payment schedule tied to project phases
- Detailed change order procedure with cost and timeline impact
- Material and fixture selection process and allowances
- Project timeline with start date, milestones, and completion date
- Warranty provisions for workmanship and installed materials
- Lien waiver requirements with each progress payment
- Permit and inspection responsibility assignment
- Dispute resolution and arbitration clause
- Signature blocks for both parties with dates
How to Use This Template
- 1
Fill in your company’s legal name, general contractor license number, insurance details, and bond information. For the client, include their full legal name and the property address. Remodeling contracts involve the most money and the longest timelines of any residential trade, so complete and accurate party identification is critical.
- 2
Reference architectural plans or detailed specifications as exhibits attached to the contract. The scope should describe the project phase by phase: demolition, framing, rough-in (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), insulation, drywall, finish work, fixtures, and final cleanup. For material allowances, specify the dollar amount allocated for each category (countertops, flooring, fixtures) so the client understands what is included.
- 3
Structure payments around completion milestones rather than calendar dates. A typical remodeling payment schedule is: 10% deposit at signing, 25% at demolition completion, 25% at rough-in completion, 25% at drywall and finish start, and 15% at final completion and walkthrough. Require lien waivers from all subcontractors and suppliers with each progress payment.
- 4
Include a robust change order clause. Remodeling projects almost always involve changes once walls are opened. Require written change orders signed by both parties before any additional work begins, with the cost impact, timeline impact, and effect on the overall contract price clearly stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a milestone payment schedule important in remodeling contracts?
Milestone payments tie payments to completed work rather than time elapsed. This protects the client from paying for work not yet done and protects the contractor from funding materials and labor out of pocket. A typical schedule is 10% at signing, then 25% at demolition, 25% at rough-in, 25% at finish start, and 15% at completion. Many states limit the maximum deposit a contractor can collect.
What are material allowances in a remodeling contract?
Allowances are placeholder dollar amounts for materials the client hasn’t selected yet, such as \$3,000 for countertops or \$5,000 for flooring. If the client selects materials costing more than the allowance, they pay the difference. If they select less, they receive a credit. Clearly list every allowance category, the dollar amount, and how overages and credits are handled.
How do lien waivers protect me in a remodeling contract?
Lien waivers are signed statements from subcontractors and suppliers confirming they have been paid. By collecting lien waivers with each progress payment, the homeowner is protected from mechanic’s liens filed by unpaid subs. As the general contractor, requiring lien waivers in your contract shows professionalism and builds client trust.
Is this remodeling contract template legally binding?
This template provides a professional starting point for remodeling service agreements. However, general contractor licensing requirements, home improvement contract laws, and lien rights vary significantly by state. We strongly recommend having a licensed attorney review and customize the template. This template does not constitute legal advice.
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