Masonry and Bricklaying Terms and Conditions Agreement

What a good one includes

• A clause explaining natural variations in brick, stone, and mortar color that can occur due to batch differences or natural sourcing.
• Clear specifications on who is responsible for site preparation, including clearing debris, providing water and electricity, and ensuring stable ground access.
• A weather delay clause that accounts for freezing temperatures, heavy rain, or extreme heat that prevents proper mortar curing.
• A detailed payment milestone schedule, including upfront material deposits and progress payments linked to specific phases of the build.
• A liability disclaimer regarding unmarked underground utilities or hidden site conditions that could be damaged during excavation or drilling.
• Information on natural curing processes, including a disclaimer about efflorescence and how it resolves over time.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using a generic handyman contract that fails to address masonry-specific issues like water damage, curing times, and structural load tolerances.
• Neglecting to require an upfront deposit for custom materials like specialty stone or face bricks, leaving your business exposed to high material costs if the client cancels.
• Failing to define what site cleanup actually means, which can lead to disputes over minor mortar droppings or dust in the air.
• Doing extra work or changing materials on a verbal agreement without securing a written change order signed by the client.

Frequently asked questions