1. Why is a web design contract necessary?
A contract protects the web designer or agency and the client the website is built for. Whilst a legally binding contract, our web design contract is written in easy-to-understand language, which makes both parties feel at ease with the project going forward.
2. Can the web design contract be customised?
As our document is straightforward to understand, it can easily be edited and amended to suit your own project. Whilst it is a web design contract, it can be modified for other closely related projects such as graphic design or marketing projects. If significant changes are to take place, we strongly recommend that you get it reviewed by a legal team in your country of origin.
3. What is the difference between a proposal and a contract?
A proposal is a document you produce with just that - a proposal of the potential work to be done. A design contract is an official document in which both the web designer and client agree for the project to go ahead. Parts of the proposal generally go into the web design contract, such as the scope of work; in fact, we advise putting together at least a page of the project specification in the contract document.
4. I’m not from Scotland, should I get a lawyer in my own country to review the contract?
Many have used the contract country outside of Scotland and the U.K. without issues. However, we advise you to get it checked over in your location. Generally, minimal edits are needed, but it’s a lot less costly than creating a document from scratch. The cost may be a few hundred dollars (or equivalent) upwards. It’s money well spent, though, when you are confident in your contract and think of the time and serious investment it would take if a client were to proceed with a legal case.
5. How should payment terms be outlined in the contract?
Make the payment terms very clear. If you charge VAT or taxes, state that explicitly beside the total cost. We advise you to gather a deposit upfront. Generally, 50% of the total fee. State clearly what amount that is, and also the final payment amount and percentage. On large projects, there are a number of ways you can collect payments. Some may be a monthly retainer. Again, just make it very clear of what the payment is and for how long.
6. How secure is your contract?
I was told if someone really wants to screw you over legally, they can, with or without a legal document. That said, we have never had any legal issues with the contract, so far! Touch wood. Business is about good relationships, and you want to weed out as many poor clients as early as you can. Although far from foolproof, there are a number of things you can do early on to recognise potential bad clients. I will blog about this soon.
7. Can a web design contract include ongoing services like maintenance or updates?
Yes, if ongoing services such as website maintenance, SEO, or updates are part of the agreement, these should be clearly outlined in the contract without ambiguity, including the scope, pricing, and duration of the services.
In summary
Our contract is written in easy-to-understand language, and if there is one thing to take away from this article, it is to write things clearly and succinctly. This removes any doubts between both parties about what the contract entails, making for better business relationships. You can edit the document, and we advise getting the document checked in your country of business.