What to Check Before Signing a Web Design Contract

Before you sign a web design contract, check three things above all: that you will own the website, domain and emails, that there is no long lock-in or cancellation penalty, and exactly what happens, and what you keep, if you leave. Everything else matters too, but those three protect you from the traps that catch most small businesses.

The three things that matter most

Most web design problems come down to the same three issues, so check these first. One, ownership: will the website, domain and emails be in your name, not the agency's? Two, lock-in: is there a minimum term or a penalty for leaving? Three, exit: if you do leave, what exactly do you keep and how easily can you take it? Get clear, written answers to these before anything else.

The other things worth checking

Beyond the big three, look at what is actually included: how many pages, how many rounds of revisions, who writes the content, and whether SEO is built in. Check the timescales, the payment schedule, and the ongoing costs for hosting, care and support once the site is live. Ask what the support response time is if something breaks. None of these should be vague.

Red flags to watch for

Some things should make you pause. An agency that will not put ownership in writing. A domain or hosting account set up in their name rather than yours. A long minimum term with a hefty cancellation fee. Vague deliverables that could mean anything. And a price that seems too cheap to be a proper job, which often is. Trust your instincts, and get the important things in writing.

The questions to ask before you sign

A few direct questions cut through most of it. Will I own my domain, website and emails? Is there a contract or minimum term? What happens if I want to leave? What is included, and what costs extra? Who do I actually deal with? A good agency will answer all of these happily and clearly. If the answers are evasive, that tells you something.

How we work

We do not lock anyone into a contract. Your website, domain and emails are in your name from day one, you can leave whenever you like and take everything with you, and you deal directly with Morgan rather than an account manager. We would rather keep you because the work is good than because a contract makes you stay. So with us, most of that checklist is answered before you even ask.