Development Contract Templates
Lawyer-reviewed contract templates for freelance developers. Free downloads available.
Contracts That Protect Developers
Software development contracts are uniquely complex. Unlike design, where outputs are visual, development deliverables include source code, databases, APIs, and infrastructure — each with its own ownership and licensing considerations. A developer without a contract risks losing ownership of their code, being blamed for post-handoff bugs indefinitely, or being asked to rebuild the entire project after one small feature change.
Source code ownership is the most contested issue in development contracts. Our templates specify that code ownership transfers only upon full payment, and clearly distinguish between project-specific code (owned by the client after payment) and reusable libraries or frameworks (which you retain). This protects your ability to use your own tools and boilerplate code across projects.
A bug fix window is another essential clause. Without it, clients can demand free support indefinitely. Our web development contract includes a defined post-launch bug fix period — typically 30 days — after which ongoing maintenance is billed separately. It also covers deployment responsibilities, hosting handoff, and third-party integration liability.
From web development to retainer agreements for ongoing maintenance, our templates are designed for the realities of freelance development. Each one is lawyer-reviewed and structured to protect both your code and your cash flow.
Freelance Service Agreement
General-purpose contract. Works for any freelancer. Covers payment terms, IP, confidentiality, and liability.
Late Payment Demand Letter
Formal demand letter for overdue invoices. References contract terms, states legal rights, sets final deadline.
Freelancer's Red Flag Checklist
10 warning signs to spot before accepting a project. A lead magnet that builds trust.
Mutual NDA
Protect ideas shared in both directions. Covers confidential information, exclusions, and term.
Web Development Contract
Tailored for developers. Includes source code ownership, deployment clause, bug fix window, and hosting handoff.
Retainer Agreement
For ongoing monthly clients. Covers set hours, unused hour rollover, scope boundaries, and 30-day termination.
Subcontractor Agreement
When you need to bring in help. Covers IP assignment upstream, confidentiality, and payment flow.