Template for scope of work and independent contractor agreement paperwork

[Karin Crompton]

Hi - I have a couple of templates but am not in love with any of them. Are there any samples here on BP or can someone point me in the right direction?

I'm looking for a good scope of work template that helps detail the work to be performed so there is little to nothing left out; and one that would detail the costs as well, plus, perhaps, milestones.

I'm finding that contractors will quote for an entire job, which is of course better than trying to give me an hourly rate ... but at the same time, how do I know what they're charging for different aspects? Ex: I'm embarking on a rehab that includes new windows, sheetrocking, painting, refinishing hardwoods, etc. I need to spell out milestones so we're clear on when the payments are coming, and I'd also like to know what each aspect costs me. If we have an unexpected expense, ideally I'd love to be able to point to another area of the rehab and tell the contractor to ditch that work b/c of this other cost that arose.

Second - maybe this would be included in the scope of work, but I'd also like to have the contractor sign paperwork that spells out that he/she is an independent contractor.

Thanks!

[Steve Babiak]

Originally posted by @J Scott:

In my experience (at least how I use it), "substantial completion" generally means that everything is done, but it reserves the right of the client (you) to ask for additional fixes or repairs should you find out that something was missed, something was done incorrectly, etc. I'll generally make my final payment when the contractor finishes the job, and then have my project manager go through a full inspection check-list at the end of the project. I may ask the contractor to come back at that point if we find something wrong, but I won't make them wait until that point to get their final check.

...

I think there is a significant piece missing to the "definition" of "substantial completion" as given in this quote. What's missing: permits must be closed, and all building code inspections must first pass of course. If a code official believes more work is needed to pass, that IS substantial IMO ...