JoeBart:
There's a lot of info that you need to explain:
Do you have employees?
Can/do you do all the estimates?
For T&M type work, you could prepare in advance a "price" guide to present to your client. With an hourly rate, materials cost (with your mark-up). It should say something like "Labor:3 hrs at $65.00 p/hr; Materials = $ xx.xx; Saleses Tax (6%) You can indicate that this is a "base" price, and rates are as stated. You may also elect to state an estimated amount of time; or a Not to Exceed Total. Be sure you detail the proposed work, and that anything "extra" will be billed accordingly. Have the client sign a copy for you, and a copy for them.
The details are a pain, but you stay out of trouble.
There are generic forms available at stationary stores, in multi-copy format. Put your company name and license & business permit number on them! (Staples; Office Depot, etc)
Actual contract documents (proposals, agreements, etc.) are more detailed. THere are also "blank" generic forms. Fill it out carefully, watch the details. You may consider a lawyer to review any contract type docs that you plan to use, before you use them.
I can delve deeper, but this forum may not be the place.
Comments anyone??
John
