Subcontractor Service Agreement for Flooring & Tiling

What a good one includes

• A detailed scope of work that explicitly defines who is responsible for subfloor preparation, leveling, and moisture testing before any tiles or planks are laid.
• Clear specifications on who provides the materials, including adhesives, grout, underlayment, and transition strips, to avoid delays or quality issues on-site.
• Explicit workmanship and quality standards, referencing industry benchmarks like the TCNA guidelines or local building codes.
• A structured payment schedule tied to verifiable milestones, such as completion of subfloor prep, rough lay-in, and final grouting or sealing.
• Specific terms regarding site cleanup, waste disposal, and who is responsible for hauling away heavy debris like old tile or mortar.
• A callbacks and warranty clause detailing how long the subcontractor is responsible for fixing issues like loose tiles or failing grout at their own expense.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Vague definitions of subfloor readiness, which often leads to disputes over who pays for self-leveling compound or extra grinding labor.
• Failing to outline a clear process for change orders when unforeseen structural issues or moisture problems are discovered beneath the old flooring.
• Relying on verbal agreements for extra work or color changes, leaving both parties without written proof when invoice disputes arise.
• Omitting a specific clause about grout curing times and protection of the finished floor from other trades, leading to damaged surfaces before handover.

Frequently asked questions