What's in your "contract"

Bullpup · 07-15-09, 05:57

Hi guys
I was wondering what everyone has their customer "sign off to" before they begin a detail? Do you mention anything about possible damage or simply have them agree to the quote you gave them for the work to be done?

Jakerooni · 07-15-09, 06:00

Possible damage??? As in you might damage their vechile? Or as in it came in with damage to it? Seems like a really odd thing to have in a contract if you're noting you might end up damaging their cars and such. If it came in with damage it's best to always walk around the car with the customer on drop off and point out anything else you see. And always take pic before you even touch the car of everything. Perferably with the customer there if possible.

Jean-Claude · 07-15-09, 06:29

Basically,

By initialing, the client agrees to having the noted work done by [company name] and paying for said work upon completion.

At the bottom of the page I have the customer sign a line which says:

By signing, the client agrees that all work was completed as noted and that there is no damage on the vehicle.

The actual wording is different(and better). But that's the gist.

Got More Wax · 07-15-09, 06:30

Yep, we always outline damage as well as what is expected of our service. When performing a complete detail, our contract states that we work on an hourly basis and final charges are based soley upon the amount of time necessary to realize intended results.

Andy

Bullpup · 07-15-09, 07:03

Thanks guys, and yes I mean pre-existing damage of course.

Andy on a side note, does that mean that if you went over your initial quote you would still charge them the full hourly rate? I haven't begun business yet, so I'm just wondering how your customers react to this.

toyotaguy · 07-15-09, 08:31

i give a range...it will be X-Y amount, usually around $50-75 difference as you can usually estimate once you get into the swing of things. its all based on an hourly!

Got More Wax · 07-15-09, 07:50

On a full detail, I don't give a quote. Like Eric stated, I am more inclined to give a range.

Andy

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bullpup

Thanks guys, and yes I mean pre-existing damage of course.

Andy on a side note, does that mean that if you went over your initial quote you would still charge them the full hourly rate? I haven't begun business yet, so I'm just wondering how your customers react to this.

Jean-Claude · 07-16-09, 05:31

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bullpup

Thanks guys, and yes I mean pre-existing damage of course.

Andy on a side note, does that mean that if you went over your initial quote you would still charge them the full hourly rate? I haven't begun business yet, so I'm just wondering how your customers react to this.

There are a few factors that depend on how this goes for people.

If you've got many years of experience with return clients who know you'll do you're best on an hourly rate, you're going to get a better response from clients.

If you're new to the biz, you're going to have to be one hell of a salesman to pull it off.

It all depends on you're level of expertise, history with clients and salesmanship.

Here is a very important factor to this business and having return clients. Do not go over your initial quote. Even if you lose money or only make $8 per hour. Clients respect someone who holds to their word at their own expense.

Jeff. AutoKraft · 07-17-09, 02:33

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bullpup

Thanks guys, and yes I mean pre-existing damage of course.

Andy on a side note, does that mean that if you went over your initial quote you would still charge them the full hourly rate? I haven't begun business yet, so I'm just wondering how your customers react to this.

I was actually wondering the same thing today as i am also soon to be starting my own business. I see here alot of people as discussed above charge per hour which is interesting because here in australia most charge a flat rate for what type of job is requested whether it be exterior only,interior only or a combination of both,paint correction & a full "bumper to bumper" detail etc. The only surcharges that may apply to the job is the vehicle size.

brwill2005 · 07-17-09, 06:44

No written or signed contracts for me. The prices of my packages are fairly fixed, and I can usually quote almost dead on. I do tell the customer that the FINAL price depends on the condition and how long the detail takes.

WAS · 07-18-09, 05:49

Ours:

Vehicle Sign In
Limitation of Liability & Agreement of Service

1. I hereby release xxxxxx, from any and all liability and claims arising out of or related to any loss, damage or injury, as a result of services performed.

2. I hereby understand and agree that xxxxxx cannot guarantee the removal of all contaminants (including, but not limited to, irremovable carpet or seat stains, irreversible paint defects, etc).

3. I hereby release xxxxxx from any liability for any damage or incidental, visible or otherwise, prior to the vehicle being submitted for services.

4. I hereby authorize xxxxxx to spend up to one (1) additional hour, billed at the regular hourly shop rate, for any additional time spent on any quoted service, including, but not limited to, excessive pet hair removal, organic substance removal, off-road contamination, etc.

5. I hereby validate that I am the registered owner or have the full authority of the registered owner(s) of the vehicle being submitted to xxxxxx for services. xxxxxx cannot be held liable in the event an unauthorized individual submits a vehicle for services.

6. I hereby agree to remit payment of any and all services agreed upon, orally or written, prior to my vehicle being released back to me. I authorize xxxxxx to withhold, detain, and issue a lien on my vehicle should I refuse to remit payment.

7. I hereby agree that xxxxxx cannot be held liable for any personal belongings left in the vehicle.

flamewerks · 08-15-09, 10:39

^ Do you mind if I borrow that?