How to Pay Nothing for Writing a Roofing Contract

Kim M. Kesmetis reports:

"Every roofing contractor has to write contracts, and the great thing is you don't have to hire legal counsel to accomplish it--you can do it for free. There are two forms of roofing contracts: a bidding document or a formal contracting document in addition to the bidding form. It is a good idea to check out the prevailing styles of contracts to create the form on your word processor. Only submit your contract when it is polished and professionally presentable...With your word processor choose a professional color and font for your company letterhead. Place it at the top (left or center) of the document. The letterhead should include your company logo, name, physical and email addresses, and phone and fax numbers. In a new [paragraph, list] the client's name, mailing address and job location, description of work to be performed as dictated in the pre-bid walk and architectural drawings (if available). When describing the project specifications, refer to the bidding material for clarification to avoid unnecessary hold-ups once the project is [underway]. Next, state the projected starting and completion dates. Then include the details of your contractor's licenses (including state and local licenses), and attach certified copies of your workers' compensation and liability insurance (or have it sent to the client via your insurance carriers). Give a breakdown of your material, labor and taxes (where applicable); only if requested, include your profit margin. Always provide detailed terms for a cost-plus rate on additional work that is requested after the signed contract, [as well as] partial and final payments. Provide the list of manufacturer names for materials, and specify the warranty products from them and your company. (State laws vary on contractor's warranty timetables.) Roofing material manufactures offer material warranties that vary based on the type of roofing and product...Use proper paragraphs (left justification, single-spaced with double spacing between paragraphs) for each section of the contract. If you prefer the bidding document style for your roofing contract, refer to sample bid documents for an idea of how to create tables and sections for your contract. Always ensure that both parties are authorized to sign the contract...Bidding as a licensed contractor provides financial security for both parties. In most states it is illegal to contract for roofing work without a license."