Why Relying on a Lawyer for Your Construction Contract

Is Like Buying Milk from a Chicken 🐔

Let me start by saying I love lawyers. I’ve kept a powerful one on a fat retainer for years—I’m a believer. But here’s the thing: when it comes to writing construction contracts, going straight to a lawyer is like heading to a farm and trying to buy milk from a chicken. It’s just not what they’re built for.

Why Construction Contracts Need Real-World Experience

Lawyers excel at crafting legally airtight documents, no question there. But construction isn’t just about legalities—it’s about navigating the everyday realities that happen on-site. When scope creep rears its head, deadlines slip, or material costs spiral out of control, those are scenarios a lawyer might have only read about in a textbook. For those of us who have been in the trenches, these aren’t hypothetical situations—they’re just Tuesday.

A contract needs to do more than cover you legally. It has to anticipate the messy, unpredictable nature of building something from the ground up. You need to know exactly how to handle change orders, budget blowouts, or the inevitable delays caused by supply chain issues. These are things that a lawyer’s contract might touch on but usually in a way that’s so broad it doesn’t really help you in the thick of things.

The Importance of Builder “Tuned” Contracts

This is why builders need contracts built by people who actually understand what it’s like on the job. You want a document that’s written by someone who’s had to deal with things like subs not showing up, materials getting delayed, or clients who suddenly decide they want to ‘add just a little something more’ after the framing is done.

A solid construction contract is more than just a legal shield—it’s a practical tool that keeps everyone on the same page and protects your bottom line. It’s about setting clear expectations, establishing boundaries, and giving you the flexibility to navigate those unforeseen situations that will come up.

You might be thinking, “But I need something legally sound!” And you’re absolutely right. That’s why the best approach isn’t about choosing between a builder’s contract and a lawyer’s expertise—it’s about combining both. Start with a contract built by someone who knows construction inside and out, then let your lawyer review and tighten it up. This way, you get the best of both worlds: real-world practicality and legal protection.

Why Generalized Legal Contracts Fall Short

Here’s the problem with relying solely on a lawyer: their expertise is in the law, not in construction. They might draft something that’s legally bulletproof, but is it going to address the specific challenges you face every day on-site? Probably not. Legal contracts often miss out on the critical details—things like how to handle last-minute changes in scope, setting firm payment milestones based on progress, or even dealing with delays that could impact other trades on the job.

A lawyer’s contract might keep you compliant, but it’s not going to have your back when a project drags on or when a client tries to sneak in extra work without paying for it. That’s where a builder’s perspective becomes invaluable.

Skip the Farmyard Confusion—Get a Contract That Works for You

So, what’s the takeaway here? If you’re serious about protecting yourself on your next build, you need a contract that works as hard as you do. One that’s built by someone who knows what it’s like when rubber meets the road (or concrete meets the rebar, in our case).

It’s time to ditch the idea that only a lawyer can write your contracts. A builder-to-builder contract combined with a lawyer’s review is the winning formula. You get the best of both worlds: a contract that’s practical and effective on the job, and one that holds up legally.

If you’re ready to skip the farmyard confusion and get a contract that truly has your back, give me a shout. Trust me, your future self will thank you when the project is running smoothly and you’re not knee-deep in avoidable disputes.

Catch you on the next one… or if you need help on this one, give me a buzz. 🤙🏽