How to write a freelance contract that actually protects you

Most freelancers who've been burned by a client have one thing in common: they didn't have a proper contract. A clear, well-drafted agreement doesn't just protect you legally — it sets professional expectations that prevent most problems before they start.

Why every freelance project needs a contract

A contract isn't a sign of distrust — it's a sign of professionalism. It answers the questions that cause disputes before they arise: what exactly is being delivered, when, for how much, and what happens when things change. Clients who resist signing a contract before work begins are telling you something important.

Essential clauses every freelance contract needs

1. Scope of work

Define exactly what you will and won't deliver. Be specific. "Website design" is not a scope. "Design of five pages (Home, About, Services, Blog, Contact) in Figma, delivered as a clickable prototype" is a scope. Anything outside the defined scope is a change request — and change requests cost extra.

2. Deliverables and timeline

List each deliverable with a due date. Include what the client needs to provide to you (content, assets, feedback) and by when. Delays caused by late client input should explicitly extend your deadline without penalty.

3. Payment terms

Include:

• Total project fee or day rate
• Payment schedule (e.g. 50% upfront, 50% on completion)
• Invoice due date (Net 7, Net 14 or Net 30)
• Late payment interest (UK statutory rate: 8% + Bank of England base rate)
• Whether you charge VAT (and your VAT number if applicable)

4. Revisions policy

Specify how many rounds of revisions are included and what constitutes a revision vs a new brief. "Two rounds of amends on each deliverable; additional rounds charged at £[X]/hour" is clear and enforceable.

5. Intellectual property

By default in UK law, the creator owns the IP they create. Your contract should specify when and how IP transfers to the client — usually upon receipt of final payment. Until paid, you retain ownership.

6. Confidentiality

If you'll be accessing sensitive business information, include a mutual NDA clause. Both parties agree not to disclose each other's confidential information.

7. Kill fee / cancellation clause

What happens if the client cancels mid-project? A kill fee protects you — typically 25–50% of the remaining project value, depending on how far along you are. Work already completed is always billable.

8. Governing law

Specify the jurisdiction (e.g. "This agreement is governed by the laws of England and Wales"). Simple, but important.

Does it need to be formal?

No. A contract can be a simple email exchange where both parties agree to clear terms. What matters is that both parties have explicitly agreed to the same terms in writing. A formal document with both signatures is stronger — but a clear email chain is better than nothing.