Mine has always been one of the former. Not coincidentally, I think, I have never spent any time in court. The minute you decide to take a job without a clear understanding of all the terms and conditions related to that job, you are asking for trouble. I write them myself and insist they be signed and returned with a deposit before I will begin work. I think that the fears I mentioned on the part of some contractors are borne more out of ignorance than anything else.
Most contractors fear locking into any date.
Materials shortages, delays on their jobs and any number of other circumstances can force even the best intended of companies to miss a deadline. We will talk more about contracts next month, when we also look at what an accountant should and shouldn't do for your business. The Business Forum is co-sponsored by ISWonline and is moderated by Anthony Noel. All business topics are welcome, from sales and marketing to dealing with difficult customers. This article is reprinted by permission of Custom Woodworking Business Magazine .