Most home improvement jobs don't involve a formal contract — and that's usually fine for small, straightforward work. But for anything significant, a written agreement is one of the most important protections you have as a homeowner.

What a written agreement should cover

• A clear description of the work to be done
• The materials to be used
• The agreed price — and what would cause it to change
• A start date and estimated completion date
• Payment schedule and deposit amount
• What happens if either party needs to cancel or delay

What's a reasonable deposit?

For most jobs, a deposit of 10–25% is reasonable to cover initial materials. For larger projects, staged payments tied to completion milestones are common and sensible. Be wary of anyone asking for more than 50% upfront — especially in cash.

Pay by bank transfer, not cash

Paying by bank transfer gives you a clear record of what was paid and when. It also gives you more options if a dispute arises. Cash payments are harder to trace and offer you less protection.

This advice is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.