Need a Commercial Services Contract in Arkansas? AroundWire Can Help

In Arkansas, contracts for commercial services—such as janitorial, landscaping, maintenance, and facility management—are typically governed by both state procurement regulations and applicable local ordinances. Contractors must often register with the Arkansas Secretary of State and may require specific business licenses depending on the service type. For state and public contracts, compliance with the Arkansas Procurement Law (Ark. Code Ann. § 19-11-201 et seq.) is mandatory, including adherence to competitive bidding thresholds and non-collusion affidavits. Insurance requirements are standard, with contractors generally obligated to maintain general liability and, where applicable, workers’ compensation coverage; minimum coverage amounts are frequently specified in solicitations. Prevailing wage rules may apply for certain public works or government-funded projects. Background checks and proof of training or certification may be required for services involving sensitive facilities or regulated industries. Payment terms often follow the Arkansas Prompt Pay Act, with payments due within 45 days of invoice approval for public entities. Risk factors include liquidated damages for nonperformance and termination for convenience clauses favoring the contracting agency. Dispute resolution typically defaults to Arkansas state courts, though some contracts may encourage mediation or arbitration. Contractors should also be aware of state preferences for resident businesses and required disclosures regarding subcontractors and past performance.