Carpentry Contract / Agreement template and PDF guide (Carpentry)...

Draft contract terms online, then generate a professional PDF for review and signature. Use this before starting any carpentry project over $1,000 or any job requiring permits...

When to use this template

Draft contract terms online, then generate a professional PDF for review and signature. Use this before starting any carpentry project over $1,000 or any job requiring permits, to lock in scope, price, timeline, and liability terms in writing.

What to include

  • Full legal names of both parties, contractor license number, insurance policy number, and project address.
  • Complete scope of work referencing the approved quote: every build item with wood species, dimensions, joinery type, finish specification, and installed location.
  • Payment schedule tied to milestones: deposit at signing, progress payment at rough completion, and final payment after walk-through approval.
  • Timeline with start date, key milestones (rough framing, trim install, finish application), and expected completion date with a stated allowance for weather or material delays.
  • Change order process, warranty period for workmanship and materials, dispute resolution method, and cancellation terms with refund policy.

Common questions

Can I edit this Carpentry Contract / Agreement online before both parties sign?
Yes. Update scope, payment terms, and timeline clauses in-browser before locking the final text.
Can I save this Carpentry Contract / Agreement as a reusable contract baseline?
Yes. With an account, save it and reuse the structure across projects while customizing client-specific terms.
Can I generate a sign-ready PDF from this Carpentry Contract / Agreement?
Yes. Export a clean contract PDF suitable for e-sign workflows or manual signatures.
Should I attach the quote to the contract?
Yes. Reference the quote number and date, attach it as Exhibit A, and state that the contract supersedes the quote if there are any conflicts.
What warranty is standard for custom carpentry?
One year on labor and joinery is standard. Exclude wood movement, client-supplied materials, and normal wear. Pass through manufacturer warranties on hardware and finishes.
Do I need insurance listed on the contract?
Yes. List your GL policy number and workers comp carrier. For high-end residential, clients and their insurance may require an additional insured endorsement.
Should the contract specify wood species, grade, and moisture content?
Absolutely. State the species (e.g., white oak, poplar), lumber grade (select, #1 common), and acceptable moisture range. This prevents substitution disputes and protects you if wood moves after install.
Do I need a written contract for every job?
For any job over a few hundred dollars, yes. A written contract protects both sides and dramatically reduces payment disputes. Verbal agreements are nearly impossible to enforce.
What happens if the customer breaks the contract?
A signed contract gives you legal standing to collect payment for completed work and recover costs. Without one, you have very little recourse.
How do I handle a customer who refuses to sign?
Do not start work without a signed agreement. A customer who will not sign a fair contract is likely to be a problem customer. Protect yourself before tools come out of the truck.

Workflow links