5 Forms Every Contractor Should Have
A contractor fills out an agreement form to officially start a project.
When you're running a job site, paperwork probably isn’t the first thing on your mind. But the right forms can mean the difference between a smooth project — and a costly mistake.
Good forms protect you, keep your projects organized, and help you stay professional in the eyes of your clients. They’re not just paperwork — they’re your safety net.
Here are five essential forms every contractor should have ready to go:
1 | Work Order Form
Before any work begins, a work order lays out exactly what’s being done, when, and for how much. It creates a clear understanding between you and your client — no assumptions, no surprises.
A strong work order should include:
- Project details
- Scope of work
- Estimated costs
- Timeline and start date
- Signature lines for both parties
It’s your first line of defense against misunderstandings.
2 | Jobsite Inspection Checklist
Job sites are dynamic — and sometimes chaotic. A jobsite inspection checklist helps you catch issues before they become problems.
Use it to document:
- Safety hazards
- Equipment conditions
- Material deliveries
- Quality control points
Regular inspections (even quick ones) can prevent injuries, delays, and costly rework.
3 | Daily Log Sheet
A daily log sheet is a simple habit that pays off big over time.
By recording:
- Work performed
- Crew on site
- Weather conditions
- Material usage
- Any notable events
You create a detailed project history that can protect you if disputes arise later.
It’s also great for keeping clients updated and showing professionalism on larger jobs.
4 | Change Order Form
Projects change — it’s almost guaranteed.
A change order form documents any changes to the original scope, costs, or timelines in writing and with client approval. Without it, you’re leaving yourself wide open to "I thought that was included" arguments.
A proper change order should capture:
- Description of the change
- Cost adjustments (if any)
- Timeline impacts (if any)
- Approval signatures
If you’re not using change orders yet, this is one of the biggest upgrades you can make to your business.
5 | Final Completion Form
When a project wraps up, a final completion form confirms the work is done — and that the client agrees.
It protects you from post-job disputes by:
- Listing all completed tasks
- Noting any punch-list items
- Including client sign-off
It’s a professional way to close the loop and move into the payment stage smoothly.
Want All These Forms and More Ready to Go?
Instead of creating these from scratch, you can grab FormStack — a ready-made library of contractor forms built specifically for the job site. They’re formatted for mobile and print use, so you can fill them out on the go or bring them to client meetings.
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