Creating Contract Templates
Build contract templates that define the structure, content, and terms for your contracts. Templates can be created from scratch or by copying and modifying existing templates.
Creating a New Template
- Go to Settings > Projects > Contract Templates
- Click Add Template (or + New button)
- Configure the template settings
- Add content sections
- Save the template
Template Settings
Basic Information
| Field | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| Template Name | Internal name for identifying the template | Yes |
| Contract Type | Which contract type this template is for | Yes |
| Active | Whether template is available for use | Yes |
Contract Type Selection
Choose the contract type this template will be used for:
- Project Proposal - Standard production contracts
- Design Services - Design phase agreements
- Deposit Agreement - Early commitment contracts
- Change Order - Scope modification contracts
- Custom - Company-specific contract types
The contract type determines what happens when a contract using this template is signed. See Contract Types for details.
Template Editor
The template editor provides a rich text interface for creating your contract content.
Editor Features
- Rich text formatting - Bold, italic, underline, headers
- Lists - Numbered and bulleted lists
- Tables - Create structured content
- Checkboxes - Insert interactive checkbox groups
- Section breaks - Organize content logically
Working with the Editor
- Type content directly - Enter your terms and conditions
- Format text - Use the toolbar for styling
- Insert checkboxes - Add checkbox groups for client acknowledgment
- Preview - Review how the template will appear in contracts
Template Sections
Templates are built from sections that control what content appears. See Template Sections for details on available section types:
- Work Scope - Displays estimate scope and pricing
- Area Summary - Room/area designations
- Allowances - Budget placeholders
- Contract Options & Addons - Optional items
- Payment Schedule - Payment structure
- Terms and Conditions - Legal terms
- Signature Section - Signature blocks
- Custom Sections - Your own content
Building Template Content
Terms and Conditions
The Terms and Conditions section contains your standard legal terms. Common content includes:
- Change order procedures
- Warranty information
- Cancellation policy
- Dispute resolution
- Insurance requirements
- Permit responsibilities
- Site access conditions
- Timeline expectations
Primary/Secondary Language
Use the Primary Language and Secondary Language fields for introductory content that appears at the top of contracts. This is useful for:
- Welcome or introductory text
- Bilingual contracts (if configured)
- Project overview language
Signature Disclaimer
Text displayed near the signature blocks, such as:
By signing below, you agree to the terms and conditions of this contract.
Signature Request Message
The message included when sending signature requests to customers via email.
Copying Existing Templates
To create a template based on an existing one:
- Open the template you want to copy
- Click Duplicate or Copy Template
- Give the copy a new name
- Modify as needed
- Save
This is useful when:
- Creating variations for different project types
- Testing changes without affecting the original
- Building templates for different contract types with similar terms
Template Best Practices
Keep Templates Focused
Create separate templates for:
- Different contract types (proposal vs. change order)
- Different project types (remodel vs. new construction)
- Different complexity levels (simple vs. comprehensive)
Use Consistent Formatting
- Same fonts and sizes across all templates
- Consistent heading hierarchy
- Standard spacing between sections
Review Legal Content
- Have legal counsel review terms and conditions
- Update templates when laws or regulations change
- Keep liability and warranty language current
Test Before Using
Before using a new template in production:
- Create a test contract
- Check formatting in preview
- Confirm all sections appear as expected
- Verify payment schedule displays correctly
Related Topics
- Template Sections - Configure scope and terms sections
- Managing Templates - Organize and maintain templates
- Payment Schedule Templates - Configure payment structures