12 free contract templates for small businesses

The name of the contract helps the parties and courts quickly identify the agreement’s purpose. Be specific and direct using titles such as “Freelance graphic design agreement,” “Residential lease contract,” or “Business partnership agreement.” Titles such as “Agreement” or “Document” are too vague.

The parties represent the full legal identification of everyone legally bound by the agreement. It ensures the correct people or businesses are responsible for fulfilling the terms and makes the contract enforceable. You should include the:

• Full legal names
• Addresses
• Roles in the contract

A brief description of the contract sets its scope and intent, preventing misunderstandings. It answers:

• What is being done?

• Why is it being done?

For example:

“The purpose of this Agreement is to outline the terms under which the Service Provider will design and deliver a company website for the Client.”

The detailed rules are the contract’s core, explaining how everything functions. Having clear terms prevents disputes and protects both sides by setting measurable expectations. You should include:

• What tasks will be done (scope of work)

• What will be delivered

• Deadlines

• Quality standards

• Procedures

For example:

• “The Service Provider shall design a 5-page responsive website.

• Delivery must be completed by 15 August 2025.

• Revisions: Up to 2 rounds of edits included.”

This says how long the contract lasts, indicating when responsibilities begin and end. As such, you should always include the start and end date or conditions for completion.

For example:

“This Agreement shall commence on 1 June 2025 and remain in effect until 31 December 2025 unless terminated earlier.”

It’s important to specify who must do what and what each party is entitled to, which creates balance and fairness.

For example:

“Client obligations:

• Provide content and images by 10 June 2025.

• Review work within 3 days.

Service provider rights:

• Request additional payment for extra work.

• Delay delivery if content is not provided on time.”

If you need to protect sensitive information such as trade secrets, personal data, or business strategies during the contract, a confidentiality clause prevents its misuse. When writing it, you should define:

• What information is confidential

• How it can be used

• How long it must remain private

For example:

“Both parties agree not to disclose confidential business information to third parties without written consent for a period of 3 years after termination.”

This clause explains how the contract can end before its natural completion, allowing safe exit strategies if things go wrong. You should include:

• How much notice is required

• Valid reasons for ending the contract

• What happens after termination

For example:

“Either party may terminate this Agreement with 30 days written notice. Immediate termination may occur in cases of breach of contract.”

A plan for how to handle conflicts saves time, money, and stress. Options include:

• Mediation

• Arbitration

• Court

For example:

“Any dispute arising from this Agreement shall be resolved through mediation before legal action.”

The formal acceptance of all parties is essential because a contract is not enforceable without consent. When writing it, include the:

• Signature lines

• Printed names

• Dates