Why Every Home Project Needs a Written Agreement

When it comes to home projects, most tradies know the value of trust. A handshake or verbal agreement might feel enough, especially for smaller jobs, but the reality is very different. A written agreement protects both you and your clients, setting expectations from the start and avoiding costly disputes later.

In this article, we’ll cover why written agreements are essential, what should be included, and how they can help you build a stronger reputation and win more business.

Why Written Agreements Matter

A verbal agreement may be legally binding, but proving the terms can be a nightmare. Written agreements take the guesswork out by documenting:

• Scope of work – what’s included and what’s not
• Timeline – when the work will start and finish
• Payments – deposit, progress payments, and final payment
• Variations – how changes will be handled
• Warranties and compliance – keeping you aligned with local regulations

Without a written agreement, disputes often turn into “he said, she said” arguments. With one, you’ve got everything in black and white.

Compliance Requirements

In some states, written contracts aren’t just good practice, they’re legally required.

• Victoria: If the project is valued over $10,000, a Major Domestic Building Contract (MDBC) is mandatory.
• NSW and QLD: Written contracts are required above certain thresholds, with clear terms around deposits and progress payments.
• Other states: Rules vary, but consumer affairs bodies across Australia recommend written agreements for all projects, regardless of value.

Failing to meet these requirements can expose you to fines, legal disputes, or reputational damage.

Protecting Yourself and Your Client

A written agreement is a safety net. It:

• Clarifies expectations so clients know exactly what they’re paying for
• Prevents payment issues by locking in agreed terms
• Reduces misunderstandings around timelines and variations
• Shields your business if disputes reach tribunals or small claims court

Clients are more likely to trust a tradie who provides a professional contract. It signals reliability, transparency, and commitment to quality work.

• Jobs stretching from three weeks into six, with no recourse
• Clients refusing to pay the final balance because the scope wasn’t clear
• Disagreements about who pays for unexpected materials
• Projects left unfinished because there’s no enforceable timeframe

These scenarios play out often, and they almost always stem from not having terms in writing.

What to Include in a Written Agreement

Keep your agreements straightforward, but make sure they cover:

1. Contact details of both parties
2. Detailed description of the work
3. Start and finish dates (with allowances for delays)
4. Payment schedule including deposit terms
5. Variation process for changes and extra work
6. Warranties, insurance, and compliance notes
7. Signatures from both you and the client

Even a simple one-page agreement can make a huge difference.

Building Trust and Winning More Work

Today’s clients expect professionalism. A written agreement helps you stand out from tradies who rely on verbal deals. It also shows you take your business seriously, which is key for winning bigger projects.

Listing your business on platforms like ServiceSeeking.com.au allows you to connect with clients who value reliability. When you pair that with clear written agreements, you’re setting yourself up for repeat work and word-of-mouth referrals.

A written agreement is more than a formality. It’s a tool that safeguards your business, gives your clients peace of mind, and keeps projects on track. Whether it’s a $2,000 fence or a $50,000 renovation, put it in writing.

If you’re ready to attract more clients who value transparency, list your business on ServiceSeeking.com.au today and back every project with a solid agreement.