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Service contracts

You're a professional, so your contracts should be, too. Let us help.

Sophia C.
Rocket Lawyer member since 2018

Service contracts FAQs

  • What is a Service Contract?

    Service Contracts are agreements between a customer or client and a person or company who will be providing services. For example, a Service Contract might be used to define a work-agreement between a contractor and a homeowner. Or, a contract could be used between a business and a freelance web designer.

    Most often, Service Contracts include details such as deadlines and payment agreements. Contracts also usually define the work to be performed and what process needs to take place if changes need to be made. These are legal agreements and can be challenged if needed.

  • Do Service Agreements need to be in writing?

    While verbal agreements may be enforceable, it is best to have Service Agreements in writing. Creating a contract gives you the opportunity to outline expectations on both sides of the agreement. Contracts define the scope of the work, how much the job will cost, when payments need to be made, and how disputes are to be handled. If you do not have the agreement in writing, disagreements or misunderstandings may arise.

  • What is included in Service Contracts?

    Most Service Contracts include similar terms and agreements. For example, a typical Construction Contract may include:

    • Contact information for both parties
    • Description of service and scope of work
    • Compliance and insurance requirements
    • Payment terms
    • Confidentiality agreements
    • Indemnification
    • Warranty
    • Default terms
    • Remedies and dispute resolution
  • Can service contracts be signed online?

    In most cases, service contracts are valid when signed online. Our services allow you to create contracts and email them to your clients. Your clients can sign contracts online and send them back to you electronically. This feature is convenient for service contracts and other common contracts such as Lease Agreements. They can sign using any device including tablets, mobile phones and computers.

  • What should I do if a contract is broken?

    If either party cannot fulfill their part of the agreement, it should be discussed amicably first. Your first option may be to simply amend or alter the original contract. If altering the contract is not an option, you'll want to review the original contract to see what options for quitting the contract outlined in the original agreement. You may be able to get out of a contract without legal consequences if both parties agree to how the contract can be quitted. If both parties cannot agree on how to solve the problem, you may need to consider mediation or small claims court.

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