Whether you are remodeling or starting a new build, you will more than likely need help. After locating an Illinois construction company with which you want to work, you will then enter into a contract for the work. You may find it helpful to know that the wording in construction contracts has the power to either help or hurt your situation.
For instance, if you are anxious to get the job started, but have yet to finalize your contract, you may still need to sign some form of contract. Including language in that contract that makes it clear that the contract is only temporary until a final agreement is reached could keep you from being permanently bound by the provisions of an interim contract. Without such a caveat, if anything goes wrong, that temporary contract is the only document an Illinois court may be able to reference and make rulings from if you end up in litigation.
Explicit language regarding prices, time to completion and the scope of the work may also help protect you. If anything goes wrong, the more detail you include in your contract, the better off you may be. Specificity in language also comes in handy when it comes to what materials are to be used and the services the construction company is to provide.
If you end up encountering an issue, the language in your contract will more than likely be the guideline for an Illinois court. Failing to make sure that your interests are appropriately protected in that agreement could cost you. It may be to your benefit to consult with an attorney who is experienced in creating, negotiating and defending construction contracts to help make sure that does not happen.
Source: FindLaw, “Ten Things to Think About Before Signing a Construction Contract“, Accessed on Feb. 25, 2018
