Smart Contract Tips for Texas Remodels and Repairs
Protecting Yourself & Contracts • Sep 24, 2025
Texas Home Improvement Contracts: How to Take Control Before You Sign
After a storm or big remodel, contractors often push homeowners to “sign today” or leave blanks that can be filled in later. Texas law gives you rights, but the best protection is slowing down and making the contract work for you.
Why Careful Contracts Matter
- No blanks = no surprises. If terms aren’t written down, they can change later.
- Paperwork protects you. Payments, waivers, and cancellation rights only matter if you document them.
- Fast signatures = fast regrets. High-pressure deals often hide vague scopes or financing traps.
Smart Steps Before You Sign
1. Get detailed bids.
Ask for at least two or three written estimates on company letterhead. Compare brands, models, ratings, and timelines.
Ask for at least two or three written estimates on company letterhead. Compare brands, models, ratings, and timelines.
2. Demand a clear scope.
Every promise in writing: what’s included, what’s not, and how changes will be approved. No “builder grade” placeholders.
Every promise in writing: what’s included, what’s not, and how changes will be approved. No “builder grade” placeholders.
3. Set milestones, not dates.
Tie payments to project stages—not the calendar. Only pay when work is done and materials are delivered.
Tie payments to project stages—not the calendar. Only pay when work is done and materials are delivered.
4. Collect lien waivers.
Each payment should come with a Texas statutory waiver: conditional at payment, unconditional once funds clear.
Each payment should come with a Texas statutory waiver: conditional at payment, unconditional once funds clear.
5. Know your cancellation rights.
If the deal was pitched and signed at your home, Texas law gives you a 3-business-day right to cancel. Use it if you feel rushed.
If the deal was pitched and signed at your home, Texas law gives you a 3-business-day right to cancel. Use it if you feel rushed.
If You’ve Already Signed Under Pressure
- Check the contract: are all blanks filled? Does it include a cancellation notice?
- Use your 3-day window if applicable. Send notice by certified mail and keep the receipt.
- Freeze payments until you get a corrected, detailed agreement.
- Document what was promised—email a written recap for your records.
How TradeCrews Keeps You in Control
Contracts don’t have to be overwhelming. With TradeCrews, homeowners get a clear system to stay organized and protected:
- Property Journal: Store every bid, signed contract, addenda, lien waiver, and cancellation notice in one secure place.
- Jack Report™: Get a quick review that flags missing waivers, mismatched payments, or deadlines you don’t want to miss.
The Bottom Line
Bad contracts cost more than money—they cost peace of mind. By slowing down, demanding detail, and organizing your paperwork, you can keep control of your project from start to finish.
👉 When you’re ready to protect your home and your budget, sign up free at TradeCrews.com
—the only tool Texas homeowners need to sign safely and build smarter.
—the only tool Texas homeowners need to sign safely and build smarter.