As has already been mentioned, you need a firm contract set out by a lawyer who knows the laws and procedures in your area.
If you want to get an some ideas as to what should be included, contact your local Contractors association and your local home builders association. Both of these associations should have sample contracts, usually for a small fee. They can then be used to create a sort of outline that you can then ask your lawyer to review.
This procedure does two things, it gets you mre familiar with what is needed in a good contract, as well as helps to possibly reduce the time spent by the lawyer drafting your contract.
Hope this info is helpful and definitely put together a solid proposal contract form. I use a contract/proposal for all large projects and deliver the proposal ready for approval on the first visit. This sets you apart from many of the competitors and can greatly improve your closing rate.
Glen
