How can independent contractors market themselves? Build A Professional Website. Leverage Social Media. Network At Industry Events. Ask For Referrals And Testimonials. Stay Active In Online Communities And Forums. Collaborate With Other Industry Professionals:
Write the contract in six steps Start with a contract template. Open with the basic information. Describe in detail what you have agreed to. Include a description of how the contract will be ended. Write into the contract which laws apply and how disputes will be resolved. Include space for signatures.
What Is a Reasonable Up-Front Deposit for a Contractor? Job SizeDeposit Small 50% Large 10%–20% Custom or specialized Up to 50%
Form W-9. If you've made the determination that the person you're paying is an independent contractor, the first step is to have the contractor complete Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification.
Acceptance of an offer: After one party makes an offer, it's up to the other party to accept it. If someone offers you $600 to walk their dogs, for example, you enter into a contractual agreement the moment you accept their offer in exchange for your services.
Every contractor I've worked with has taken 50% up front and 50% when the job is finished. This is normal. One thing I would recommend is you vet your contractor thoroughly--check reviews, make sure they have a legitimate website, testimonials etc...
What to avoid in construction contracts Unclear scope of work and specifications: An ambiguous scope of work can cause misinterpretation. Missing change order procedures: Not having change order procedures is a risk as construction projects rarely go exactly ing to plan.