Home Plans And Home Designs - Contract for draftsman needed?

Im starting the process of a home addition, which will be adding a family room, master bedroom and master bath. The work will be essentially an extension of the existing house. I have been referred to a draftsman by a trustworthy friend. I met with him yesterday, he is able to produce all the drawings the city needs and has done similar projects and much larger projects. I feel confident in the services he can provide. He asked for a $500 retainer to get started. I'm delaying giving him the money until I find out more about entering into "agreements" with draftsmen. My question... should there be some sort of written contract for his services? Im doing my research re: contracters and contracts, but haven't found anything related to draftsmen/architects. Thanx

Ranboze,

I always have a contract with a client. I explain what is and is not covered by the contract. What the total fees are and when I recieve them. I even go into the plancheck corrections what will and will not be covered. I would prior to handing over a retention get all this in writing from him. It is a natural course of business and a good way to resolve conflict before it happens. If all this is explained in easy to understand language and in a complete but brief format it is better for every one. I do all this in a one page contract.

I hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Brian Garrison

Thanx Brian.