What To Put In A Siding And Windows Service Agreement
A generic contractor service agreement usually misses the three things that matter most in siding and window work: lead-safe practices on older homes, what happens when hidden rot is found mid-job, and the difference between a workmanship warranty and a manufacturer warranty.
Lead-safe practices for pre-1978 homes
If the property was built before 1978, the agreement should state that lead-safe work practices apply to any work disturbing painted surfaces, per applicable regulations — and whether the company holds the relevant certification.
Hidden rot and sheathing damage
Sheathing and framing condition aren't always visible until old siding or windows come off. The agreement should say plainly that if rot or damage is found that materially increases scope, the client gets notified and a revised price before continuing — not a surprise final bill.
The two-warranty distinction
The workmanship warranty and the manufacturer's material warranty are not the same thing, and the agreement should say so directly: the manufacturer administers its own warranty under its own terms, separate from whatever the installer promises about the installation itself.
The rest: standard but still necessary
Property protection and cleanup, pricing and payment terms, scheduling flexibility for weather, insurance and liability, and a termination clause round out the agreement.
This is a starting point, not legal advice. Have a licensed attorney in your state review any service agreement before using it for real jobs — requirements vary by location.