ABSTRACT
Before the contract between employer and contractor is executed, employers often wish to make an early start, which itself can be the cause of problems later. If the contractor is willing, the architect may issue a letter of intent to give the contractor confidence that although the contract is not executed, the employer intends to do so and payment will be made for work done. Letters of intent can be the cause of difficulty and they require care in drafting. Sometimes other documents are alleged to be binding contracts, such as the minutes of meetings. Choosing the appropriate contract is important as well as adding the correct date and other matters.
