Terms and conditions are the legal rules governing a project or service. For freelancers, they are a foundational contract that sets expectations and protects your business.
What is Terms and conditions?
Terms and conditions, often called T&Cs, are a legal agreement between you and your client. They outline the rules, responsibilities, and expectations for a project. This includes scope, payment terms, deadlines, and ownership of work. Think of it as the rulebook for your professional relationship.
Why is this important?
Having clear T&Cs is crucial for your protection. They prevent misunderstandings by defining project scope and payment schedules. They also provide a legal basis for resolving disputes over late payments or scope changes. Without them, you have little recourse if a client relationship sours.
How does it work?
You present your T&Cs to a client before starting work, often as part of a proposal or contract. The client must agree to them, usually by signing. This agreement then governs the project. Key elements include payment terms, revision limits, late fees, and intellectual property transfer upon final payment.
Pros and cons
The pros are clear: legal protection, defined expectations, and professional credibility. The main con is that creating thorough T&Cs requires time and possibly legal advice. Some clients may also negotiate terms, which can delay project start dates.
Conclusion
Terms and conditions are non-negotiable for professional freelancing. They transform a verbal agreement into a secure, enforceable contract. Taking the time to create and use them is a fundamental step in building a sustainable business.
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