Follow these 5 steps to write a comprehensive contractor agreement.
1. Outline Services to be Provided
Your contractor agreement should list the services contracted. Include as much detail as possible. For example, if the contractor is hired for grant writing services, does this include submitting the grant? For repeat contractors, make a separate agreement each time there’s a new scope of work.
2. Document Duration of the Agreement
Stipulate the duration of the working relationship, whether it’s for a single project, fixed term, or ongoing work arrangement. Include how much notice is required for either party to terminate the contract.
3. Document Payment Terms
Your contractor agreement should specify how much you will pay the contractor, and whether payment will be made as installments or a lump sum, and the frequency of said payments.
4. Document Confidentiality Agreement
To protect intellectual property, include a confidentiality clause within your contractor agreement. Specify how long the information must stay confidential. You may consider including a non-compete agreement if your contractor will be privy to trade secrets.
5. Consult With a Lawyer
Like with all contracts, consult with a lawyer to ensure your contract agreement covers all the bases and would hold up in a court of law. Contractors are an extension of your team, and should be held to high standards.