There are several basic elements that all Home Improvement Contracts must legally contain:
" A home improvement contract and any changes to the contract must be in writing and signed by all parties. The writing must be legible and printed forms must be readable." Before any work is started, the contractor must give the buyer a copy of the contract signed and dated by both the contractor and the buyer.
" Unless a larger typeface is specified in the law (Business and Professions Code 7159.), text in any printed form shall be in at least 10-point typeface and the headings shall be in at least 10-point boldface type.
" Except for a down payment, a contractor cant demand or accept payment for work or materials until the work is actually done or the materials are delivered. The down payment may not exceed $1,000 or 10 percent of the contract amount, whichever is less.
" If the contract includes a salespersons commission in the contract price, the payment to the salesperson shall be made on a pro rata basis in proportion to the schedule of payments made to the contractor.
" The contract must also contain the name and registration number of the salesperson.
