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Contractor Agreement
Ref: 2026-001 • Standard Business Template
Overview
This Independent Contractor Agreement serves as the primary legal framework for the interior design relationship, ensuring that the scope of work is strictly defined to prevent unpaid 'scope creep' and administrative overhead. It includes robust clauses regarding the non-refundable nature of the initial design fee and the structured milestone payments required before transitioning from the conceptual phase to the procurement phase. By signing this document, the Client acknowledges that the Designer provides aesthetic consulting services and is not acting as a licensed architect, structural engineer, or general contractor, thereby limiting the Designer's liability for structural defects or code violations performed by third-party trades.
The agreement further protects the Designer’s business interests by detailing the terms of procurement and the handling of warranties for furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E). It stipulates that while the Designer may facilitate the purchase of items, all manufacturer warranties are between the Client and the vendor, and the Designer is not responsible for manufacturing defects or shipping delays caused by global supply chain volatility. Additionally, it grants the Designer the right to photograph the completed project for promotional and portfolio use, ensuring that the creative labor contributes to the long-term growth of the Designer’s professional brand.
Client Ghosting
Without upfront financial commitment, clients can disappear mid-project.
Infinite Revisions
Without a documented scope of work, you risk doing unpaid tweaks forever.
Chasing Checks
Waiting 30 days for a paper check severely impacts freelance cash flow.
Built from real freelance projects
This template is based on real-world scenarios across freelance projects where unclear scope, missing payment terms, and revision creep led to lost revenue. It is designed to protect your time, define expectations, and ensure you get paid.
🛡️ What this independent contractor agreement covers:
- ✓Phase 1: Concept Development - Delivery of mood boards, material swatches, and preliminary 2D floor plans for spatial optimization.
- ✓Phase 2: Design Specification - Provision of detailed 3D renderings, lighting schematics, and a comprehensive 'Schedule of Finishes' for furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
- ✓Phase 3: Implementation & Styling - Oversight of furniture procurement, coordination of white-glove delivery, and final onsite decorative placement.
Legal Disclaimer: MicroFreelanceHub is a software workflow tool, not a law firm. The templates and information provided on this website are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the rights to the design plans and CAD files?
The Designer retains all copyright ownership of the designs; the Client is granted a limited license to use the plans solely for the execution of the specific project once final payment is made.
How are purchasing and procurement handled?
The agreement specifies whether the Designer acts as a purchasing agent or if the Client pays vendors directly, including any applicable design fees or markups on trade-only items.