How to read a construction contract before you sign
The clauses that actually matter — scope, price basis, change-order terms, and warranty — and the vague language worth pushing back on.
A construction contract is where a good relationship gets protected or a bad one gets baked in. A few clauses are worth reading twice before you sign anything.
Scope of work
It should be specific enough that a stranger could read it and know exactly what's included — and, just as importantly, what isn't. Vague scope is where disputes start.
Price basis and payment schedule
Know whether you're signing a fixed price, a cost-plus agreement, or something else — and confirm payments are tied to completed milestones, not an arbitrary calendar.
Change orders and warranty, in writing
Confirm how changes get priced and approved, and get the workmanship warranty spelled out in the contract itself — not promised verbally and left out of the paperwork.
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