Terms of Service Contract GUIDE
“I’m embarrassed to admit it… I haven’t been using a contract. I know I should - but is it really that big of a deal if I’m only taking on smaller projects?”
 
Yes. And you’re not alone.
 
Many designers start out “winging it” - especially when projects are smaller, clients are friendly, or business is still part-time. But without a written Terms of Service agreement in place, you’re exposing yourself to avoidable confusion, miscommunication, stress, and financial risk.
 
"This was worth every penny! I just modified it a bit for my business and added it into my proposal and it sounds so much more professional than what I previously had." - Brittney | DESIGNLIFEINC. mentee
 
A contract isn’t about being formal.
It’s about being protected, clear, and professional, at every stage of your business.
This template gives you the foundation you need.
DISCLAIMER: I am not a lawyer. This is not legal advice. You should always have a lawyer review any document you intend to use. This resource is for idea-sharing and educational purposes only.
 
Why You Need a Terms of Service (Even for Small Projects)
Your Terms of Service is the rulebook for how your design projects operate. Without it, anything can happen - and usually will, at the worst possible time.
Do your clients clearly understand:
What to expect at each stage of the project?
How and when to communicate with you?
Your invoicing schedule and payment expectations?
How you introduce and coordinate trades?
Who pays trades - and how?
Who is liable for what during a project?
Where you source furnishings and materials?
How they’ll pay for furnishings & materials?
How you handle trade discounts?
What happens if either party terminates the project?
 
If not, you’re operating without boundaries - and without protection.
 
This Terms of Service GUIDE helps you present all of this clearly, professionally, and confidently from the very beginning.
 
What This Guide Gives You
This is the same foundational Terms of Service document I use in my own interior design business for projects of all sizes. It helps:
Prevent misunderstandings
Reduce emotional and financial stress
Clarify expectations for both you and your clients
Set healthy boundaries around your time, expertise, and workflow
Protect your business when issues arise (and they do)
Create a professional, consistent onboarding experience
It’s simple, direct, easy to understand, and fully customizable to your own policies and processes.
 
Bonus Included: FREE Deep-Dive Video
I walk you through every section and clause in the guide, explaining:
Why the clause exists
How it protects you
How it supports smoother client relationships
What to consider when customizing it
This alone will give you clarity and confidence that your policies make sense — and that you’re operating like a real, protected business.
 
Who This Is For
Designers who:
Have been “winging it” and know it’s time to tighten up
Are nervous about putting policies in writing
Want to protect their business without feeling intimidating
Need a solid foundation before taking on bigger projects
Want to reduce miscommunications and project stress
Are ready to operate with clarity, confidence, and professionalism
 
Don’t operate without a Terms of Service — no matter what stage you’re at.
Protect your work. Protect your time. Protect your business.