What Is a Plumbing Contract?
A plumbing contract, also known as a plumbing service agreement, is a written agreement between a plumber and a client. It explains what plumbing work will be performed and how much the job will cost. A plumbing contract includes key details, such as:
- The names of both parties
- A description of the plumbing service being provided
- Payment terms
Putting these details in writing helps both parties understand their responsibilities before work begins. Plumbing contracts are commonly used for repairs, installations, and ongoing maintenance work. They help set clear expectations and reduce confusion during the job.
Even when not required by law, plumbing contracts help avoid disputes over scope, pricing, and timelines.
When Should You Use a Plumbing Service Agreement?
A plumbing service agreement is useful whenever plumbing services are provided to a client. Using a written contract helps define the work and set clear expectations for both parties. You should consider using a plumbing contract in the following situations:
- For one-time plumbing jobs, such as a single repair or installation, the scope of work and price need to be clear before work begins.
- For ongoing maintenance services, where plumbing work is provided on a regular basis and the same terms apply to each visit.
Putting these terms in writing helps prevent future disputes around what both sides agreed to. To make this process easier, you can use Legal Templates’s free plumbing contract template to draft your own. Simply answer a few questions and download your completed contract in PDF or Word format.
How to Write a Plumbing Contract?
A well-written plumbing contract should clearly describe the work that will be performed, the price, and the expectations for both parties. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write a plumbing contract:
Step 1 – Identify the Parties
Start by listing the full legal names of the plumber and the client. If either party uses a business name, include that as well. This helps avoid confusion about who is responsible for the work and payment.
Step 2 – Describe the Scope of Plumbing Work
Describe the plumbing service being provided. List what the work includes and, if helpful, what it does not include. Being specific about what is included helps prevent misunderstandings and manage client expectations. State what happens if additional services become necessary during the course of the work.
Step 3 – Set Payment Terms
Clarify payment terms for the plumbing contract. Include things like the total price (hourly or fixed-price), accepted payment methods (such as cash, check, or card), and any other charges or fees that may apply. Writing payment terms upfront helps avoid disputes about billing and timing.
Step 4 – Explain Service Delivery and Completion
State when the plumbing work will be considered completed. For example, this could be when the repairs are finished or when the client accepts the work.
Step 5 – Include Key Contract Provisions
Include standard provisions that explain how certain issues will be handled if they come up during the job. Common provisions may address:
- Inspection and acceptance: When the client has the right to review or inspect the work before it is considered complete.
- Cancellation rights: When and how either party may cancel the agreement, if allowed.
- Assignment: Whether the contract can be transferred to another person or business.
- Unforeseen events: How delays or problems outside either party’s control may be handled.
- Choice of law: Include which state’s laws will govern the agreement. Typically, this is the state where the plumbing business is located.
Step 6 – Sign the Agreement
Both parties should sign the contract and keep a copy for their records. A signed contract shows that everyone agrees to the terms in writing. Once signed, the contract can serve as a reference during the job and after the work is completed.
Use a free plumbing invoice template after the job is complete to request payment and keep billing records organized.
Plumbing Contract Sample
View a sample plumbing contract template below to see what a typical agreement looks like. Then, use our step-by-step questionnaire to customize and download your plumbing contract in PDF or Word format. You can use a free printable plumbing contract template to keep a clear copy for your records.
