More Ways to Use Contracts

NOTE-- We retired MacNail computer software for construction back in 2000, and replaced it with Goldenseal. This "third generation" program runs on Macintosh and Windows, and is an integrated construction business program that includes construction spec writing, plus accounting, construction estimating, and project management, We keep the MacNail manuals online as a service to die-hard users. Project contracts and subcontracts created in Goldenseal are very similar to those from MacNail Spec Writer, and you'll use them in the same ways.

In Client Communications

You can use Spec Writer to create a detailed description of the work to be done, whether or not you use it as part of a formal contract.

If all you need is an informal description of the project, simply use the MacNail construction management software to create a new contract using Specifications, and don't include headers, footers or stock clauses. You can then attach the Spec Sheet to your bid form, or simply give it to the clients informally. If the situation warrants, you may want the clients to initial or sign the Spec Sheet.

For projects where you want a full contract, use the MacNail project management software to write a contact that includes the headers, footers or stock clauses that apply to the project, along with Specifications.

HINT: On smaller projects you may want to use fewer legal clauses, so the contract is not so forbidding.
In our experience, the majority of construction disagreements occur over what work will be done on the project, and a Spec Sheet presented in any form helps to clarify which work will be done. That is beneficial to both the builder and the client!

For Design-Build Projects

When you do design-build work, you are often responsible for all contract documents. Spec Writer can be used to create a detailed contract for the project. It is useful whether you do the work yourself, or have it done by some other contractor using your designs and specs.

HINT: Since the creation of a contract is a service you are providing in addition to design work, you may want to charge for the time to prepare it-- especially if you don't end up doing the actual construction work yourself.

If you do end up acting as General Contractor for the project, Spec Writer will also help you to create contract documents for each of your subcontractors.