Need a Home Services / Fence Installation And Repair Contract in Tennessee? AroundWire Can Help

In Tennessee, contracts for home services such as fence installation and repair typically require clear, written agreements outlining the scope of work, materials to be used, project timeline, and total costs. State law does not mandate a specific contract form, but best practices include detailed line-item estimates and clearly stated warranty terms. Contractors performing projects valued at $25,000 or more must hold a Tennessee contractor’s license; for smaller jobs, a local business license may suffice, but some municipalities (e.g., Nashville, Memphis) impose additional registration or permitting requirements. Insurance is a critical contract feature: contractors are generally expected to carry general liability insurance, and, if they have employees, workers’ compensation coverage. Contracts often specify risk allocation for property damage or injury, and may include indemnification clauses. Payment terms usually involve an initial deposit (often capped at a reasonable percentage by local custom), with progress payments tied to milestones and a final payment upon satisfactory completion. Tennessee’s Prompt Pay Act may apply, requiring timely payments and establishing penalties for late payment on larger projects. Dispute resolution clauses commonly prefer mediation or arbitration before litigation. It is standard to reference compliance with relevant building codes and zoning ordinances, and to clarify responsibility for securing necessary permits. Clear termination clauses and procedures for handling change orders are also recommended to reduce risk and ambiguity.