The Contractor’s Compass: What Should Be in a Legitimate Construction Contract

RLW: The Mixer Minute

A handshake and a verbal agreement won’t cut it when it comes to home improvement. If your contractor isn’t providing a written contract, that’s your first red flag.

A solid construction contract protects both you and the contractor. It outlines expectations, timelines, costs, and what happens if things change. If it’s not written down, you have no real proof of what was agreed on—which can cost you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

Here’s what a legitimate contract should include:

✅ 1. Scope of Work

This is the detailed description of the work to be completed. It should clearly spell out what’s being done, what’s not included, and any agreed-upon materials or finishes.

✅ 2. Materials and Products

Are you getting stamped concrete or broom finish? What type of sealer? Which color or pattern? The contract should list the exact materials being used—vague language leaves too much room for shortcuts.

✅ 3. Timeline and Milestones

There should be a realistic start date, estimated completion date, and any key checkpoints or deadlines. Delays happen, but a timeline keeps everyone accountable.

✅ 4. Payment Schedule

Never pay the full amount upfront. A fair contract includes a payment breakdown—usually in stages (e.g., deposit, mid-point, final). It should also note acceptable payment methods and due dates.

✅ 5. Change Order Policy

If you decide to change something mid-project (add a section, switch a material), there should be a clear process for documenting those changes—and updating the price.

✅ 6. Warranty and Workmanship Guarantee

A professional contractor stands by their work. Make sure the contract outlines any warranty terms (materials, labor, or both) and how long coverage lasts.

✅ 7. Signatures

Both parties should sign and date the contract. You should each have a copy for your records before work begins.

Having a proper contract isn’t just a formality—it’s your insurance policy against confusion, miscommunication, and conflict. A good contractor will be more than willing to provide one and walk you through it.

⚠️ Legal Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional, legal, or construction advice. Every project is unique, and conditions may vary. RLW Concrete LLC is not liable for any actions taken based on this information. Always consult with a qualified professional or attorney for your specific needs.
License #PA65009

Comments

📰 Introducing: RLW — The Mixer Minute

📰 Introducing: RLW — The Mixer Minute Your new go-to source for all things concrete. At RLW Concrete LLC, we know concrete inside and out—but we also know that not everyone does. That’s why we’re launching The Mixer Minute , a fresh new blog designed to educate, inspire, and connect with our customers and community. Whether you’re a homeowner planning your first patio, a DIYer with questions about finishing tools, or just someone who wants to learn more about the materials under your feet—we’ve got something for you. 👷‍♂️ Who We Are About RLW Concrete LLC RLW Concrete LLC is a family-owned business serving Central PA and the surrounding areas since 2010. Founded by Ryan and Robin Welder, our company is built on the values of family, integrity, and high-quality work. We’re proud to deliver exceptional service to every client, and we treat every job—big or small—with the same attention to detail and care. 🛠 What You’ll Find on The Mixer Minute : We’re kicking off the b...

Concrete 101: Understanding the Concrete Mix – What’s in the Bag?

🧱 Concrete 101: Understanding the Concrete Mix – What’s in the Bag? New to concrete? No problem. Whether you're pouring a slab for a shed or managing a new driveway install, it helps to know what’s actually in a concrete mix—and why it matters. At its core, concrete is a simple recipe: cement , aggregates , and water —but slight changes to that recipe can have a big impact on how your project performs. Let’s break down what goes into a standard mix and what each ingredient can do for your concrete. 🧪 The Basic Ingredients 1. Cement Cement is often confused with concrete, but it’s just one part of the mix. It's the binding agent —when combined with water, it reacts chemically (a process called hydration ) to create a paste that hardens and glues everything together. Most mixes use Portland cement , which is widely available and compatible with a variety of applications. 2. Aggregates ( Sand and Gravel ) Aggregates give concrete its volume and strength. These can ...

Concrete 101: A Brief History of Concrete

Concrete 101: A Brief History of Concrete RLW: The Mixer Minute Concrete is one of the most widely used building materials in the world today—but it’s not a modern invention. Its history stretches back thousands of years, proving just how reliable and versatile it is. Here’s a quick look at concrete through the ages. ✅ 1. The Ancient Origins The earliest forms of concrete date back to ancient civilizations. The Egyptians used a mixture of mud and straw for bricks and later developed a lime and gypsum mortar. But it was the Romans who perfected the use of concrete, mixing volcanic ash with lime and water to create structures that still stand today. ✅ 2. Roman Concrete Marvels The Romans built roads, aqueducts, and massive structures like the Colosseum and the Pantheon dome using concrete. Their formula allowed the material to resist cracking and even grow stronger over time when exposed to seawater. ✅ 3. Concrete Disappears—and Returns After the fall of the Roman Empire, ...

RLW: The Mixer Minute

Search This Blog