CONTRACT REVIEW CHECKLIST FOR CREATIVES

Most creative contracts fail not because the language is weak, but because the wrong boxes were checked—or never checked at all. Use this before you sign anything.

OWNERSHIP & RIGHTS

□ Who owns the final work?

□ Is there a "work for hire" clause?

□ Can you use the work in your portfolio?

□ What happens to unused materials (raw footage, drafts, outtakes)?

□ How long can they use your work? (Limited term vs. "in perpetuity")

□ Where can they use it? (Social media, print, broadcast, worldwide?)

PAYMENT

□ What's the total fee?

□ When do you get paid? (Upfront deposit, milestones, final payment)

□ What expenses are covered?

□ What happens if payment is late?

□ Is there revenue sharing? If so, how is it calculated?

SCOPE OF WORK

□ What exactly are you delivering? (Be specific)

□ What's the timeline?

□ How many revisions are included?

□ What happens if they ask for more than agreed?

RESTRICTIONS

□ Are there exclusivity or non-compete clauses?

□ Can you work with their competitors? For how long?

□ Are there confidentiality requirements?

□ Can they use your name or likeness in their marketing?

TERMINATION

□ How can either party end the contract?

□ Do you get paid for partial work if it's cancelled?

□ Is there a kill fee?

RED FLAGS

□ "Work for hire" without understanding what you're giving up

□ "In perpetuity" rights for a one-time fee

□ Vague scope like "as needed" or "additional work as requested"

□ No clear payment schedule

□ You can't use your own work in your portfolio

□ Automatic renewals without notice

BEFORE YOU SIGN

□ Read every word

□ Get verbal promises in writing

□ Negotiate what matters to you

□ Keep a signed copy

□ When in doubt, get legal review

A contract reviewed now costs far less than litigation later. If something feels off, trust that instinct—and get it looked at before you sign.