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Comparing a simple checklist to a full contract for a kitchen repaint job
I used to just agree on a price and start, but after a couple in Bellingham kept adding tasks, I tried a one page checklist of exactly what was included. The checklist stopped the 'while you're here' requests cold because I could point to the line items. Anyone else find a simple doc works better than a big legal contract for small residential jobs?
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david_palmer6mo ago
Why not use both a checklist and photos?
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lisas787mo ago
Forget the checklist, try a photo list. I snap pictures of every wall and cabinet door before starting. When a client later asks why I didn't paint behind the fridge, I show the "before" photo where their own stuff was piled there. Visual proof shuts down arguments about what was originally in the scope way faster than words on a page. It also covers you for pre-existing damage claims. Do you take photos at the start of a job?
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emma_jackson217mo ago
Absolutely a game changer for any trade work. Photos are your best friend when a client's memory gets fuzzy. I even do a quick video walkthrough on my phone before touching anything, narrating what I see. That time stamp and voice note combo is bulletproof. Saves so many headaches down the line because you can't argue with a video.
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ryanj107mo ago
Ever think video was overkill for small jobs? I used to just do photos. Then a client swore their kitchen outlet worked before I touched the switch. My photo showed the old burn marks I missed, but they kept arguing. Now I do the narrated video walkthrough like you said. Pointing at that exact outlet on video, saying it's already broken, saved me from eating that repair cost. Changed my whole process.
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