Cian BrennanFounder, Quantum Contract Solutions · Founder

Rule #1: Do not work without the paperwork. Rule #2: Refer to rule #1.

Name: Rule #1: Do not work without the paperwork. Rule #2: Refer to rule #1.
Uploaded: 2026-04-05T04:00:43+00:00
Duration: 29 s
Channel: Cian Brennan
Description: A contractor warns that starting work before paperwork is signed guarantees unpaid labor. Once the job is done, you've lost all leverage to claim…

5 Apr 2026 · 0 min

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A contractor warns that starting work before paperwork is signed guarantees unpaid labor. Once the job is done, you've lost all leverage to claim payment. Complete contracts and variations first, then work.

Work done before paperwork usually means work done for free. On busy jobs, it feels natural to just get on with it. Fix the issue, do the extra bit, keep the momentum, be a good little subcontractor. But the contract doesn't reward momentum, it rewards documentation. By the time you raise the variation, the leverage is gone because the work is already complete. The move is to flip the order. Paperwork first, work second. Be strong. They will hurry up to get the paperwork done if they need you to get it done on site.