You may notice I posted a couple of threads advertising my services. I feel rather sheepish about doing this but Barry encouraged me to do so. So thank you to Barry for allowing and encouraging me to do so.
The number one call I get for help with nontechnical is I have a car half done and can't find a shop to finish over my work.
I try to explain to them it is risky to finish over someone else's prior work, and very few shops will touch.
voice activated pocket recorder is your friend . i've used one since 76 to cover my ass with customers who try to change the game mid job. more than once i have made them crawfish out of my shop. i have shot many cars over the years and always have them on tape agreeing i'm only responsible for the shiny shit. i once shot a corvette that was the shiniest pos on the planet .
if you're in business every conversation you have should be on tape.
I require a written contract with the time and materials terms clearly stated. Also terms for ending contract are clear for myself and the vehicle owner.
Any major deviations from the job, require a change order be submitted.
The days of taking a man at his word and a handshake are long gone.