Need a It / Networking Contract in Tennessee? AroundWire Can Help

IT/Networking contracts in Tennessee, particularly for public sector work, are governed by a mix of state procurement regulations and industry best practices. Contracts typically require vendors to comply with the Tennessee Information Protection Act and relevant sections of the Tennessee Public Records Act, ensuring data security and confidentiality. State and many local agencies use the Central Procurement Office’s standard contract templates, which include explicit language on intellectual property ownership, software licensing, and data handling. Vendors must often demonstrate relevant business licenses and, for certain work, IT or cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CompTIA, CISSP, or state-recognized equivalents). Insurance requirements are standard: general liability, professional liability (E&O), and cyber liability coverage are commonly mandated, with minimums specified by the agency. Payment terms usually follow net 30 or net 45 days, but may be contingent on deliverables or milestones, especially for larger projects. Risk factors addressed in contracts include data breaches, service outages, and failure to meet performance benchmarks, with liquidated damages clauses not uncommon. Dispute resolution often favors mediation or arbitration before litigation, and Tennessee law is specified as the governing law. Additionally, contracts may include non-discrimination and equal opportunity language per state statutes. Contractors should be aware of “buy local” preferences in some municipalities and the prohibition against certain indemnification clauses that conflict with state limits on liability for public entities.