The Contractor’s Guide: 5 Must-Have Elements for Your Work Order Forms
For Canadian contractors—whether you are in general construction, plumbing, or electrical—spring is just around the corner. As you gear up for the busy season, there is one administrative tool you shouldn't overlook: your Work Order.
A vague or generic receipt book from an office supply store can lead to payment disputes later. A custom-printed NCR (Carbonless) form protects your business and makes you look like a pro on the job site.
Here is what your Work Order needs to include to ensure smooth operations and faster payments.
1. A Clear "Scope of Work" Section
The most common cause of disputes is the "I thought you were including the painting too" argument.
Your form needs a large, lined area where you can detail exactly what is—and isn't—included in the job.
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Pro Tip: Choose a "Legal Size" (8.5” x 14”) form if you typically write long descriptions.
2. Liability & Warranty Disclaimers
In Canada, liability is a big deal. Does your current form have the fine print on the back (or bottom) that protects you?
Your NCR form should clearly state:
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Warranty terms (e.g., "Labour guaranteed for 30 days").
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Liability limits for existing damages.
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Payment terms (e.g., "Payment due upon completion").
3. Material vs. Labour Breakdown
Clients appreciate transparency. Designing your form with separate columns for Materials and Labour helps justify the final price. It also makes your bookkeeping easier when tax season arrives.
4. The "Change Order" Approval Box
This is a lifesaver. Often, a client will ask for "one small extra thing" while you are on site.
Include a small box on your form for "Extra Work Authorization". Before you do the extra work, write it down and have them initial it right there on the Carbonless form.
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Need to know which copy to give them? Check out our guide on [2-Part vs. 3-Part Forms]
5. Customer Signature (The Most Important Part)
A signature on a physical piece of paper is powerful. It is proof that the job was completed to the customer's satisfaction.
With NCR Forms, the customer signs the top (White) sheet, and the signature transfers perfectly to your Yellow/Pink copies. No need to scan or email later—you have your hard copy instantly.
Get Ready for the Spring Rush
Don’t wait until your first big job to realize you are out of forms. At NCR Print Canada, we specialize in custom printing for the trades. You can upload your own design, or we can help you create one.
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[Get a Custom Quote]: sales@ncrprintca.com