Q: I should be engaging a carpenter to manufacture some new furniture for my house. He said he would send me a contract to sign. Is there anything I should check regarding his responsibilities?

A: When ordering new furniture, the first thing to do before signing the contract of sale is ensure that the contract includes a detailed description of the furniture ordered or a model number that clearly reflects the type of furniture ordered.

Secondly, if you need this furniture by a certain date, make sure you specify this at the time of purchase and also ensure this date is written in the contract. If the date is not honoured by the carpenter, you have the right to cancel the contract and request a refund. You may also include a clause stating that if the ordered furniture is not delivered by the agreed date, you will charge the trader a penalty until the goods ordered are delivered.

The price agreed, including delivery and installation charges, should also be included in the contract. Deposits paid should also be clearly mentioned together with when and how the rest of the payment will be effected.

Also read carefully and understand fully the terms and conditions you are signing. Should you not be satisfied with the contract terms, you should either try to renegotiate them or simply not accept them.

Other carpenters may be willing to accept your conditions. If, at any point, the contract is amended, it is important to have the trader sign any changes that have been made.