Last Updated March 27, 2024
Computer Services Agreement
What is a Computer Services Agreement?
A Computer Services Agreement governs contracted work specifically relating to IT (information technology) and computer repairs or maintenance. You can customise this agreement for fixed-term contracts ending on a specific date, project-based contracts that end when the work is complete, or open-ended working relationships without end dates. Complete our IT service contract template to create your own Computer Services Agreement.
What services can you contract using a Computer Services Agreement?
There are several different services you can contract using a Computer Services Agreement, including:
- Fixing, troubleshooting, and maintaining desktops and laptops
- Developing or improving websites with e-commerce platforms and search optimisation
- Developing gaming and app software
- Maintaining regular computer backups
- Setting up and maintaining office internet
- IT services and support
- Establishing and implementing a digital marketing strategy
- Developing, implementing, and maintaining cybersecurity measures
- Computer maintenance
- On-site computer services
- IT computer services
What should a Computer Services Agreement include in Ireland?
Start by including the scope of the services required. Typically, the extent of the job will fall into one of the following categories:
- Single project: the job lasts until the project is complete
- Fixed term: the job ends on a specific date
- Indefinite: the job is ongoing
Outline the services that the client is hiring the contractor to complete, such as computer repair services. Be clear and specific when describing the tasks required. Indicate any important dates.
Include the important details of each party in the contract. List the contractor and client details, including each party’s address. Also, clarify whether the contractor is an individual or an organisation/company. For example, the contractor may be a computer services business.
A computer repair service agreement should also contain the billing details. The contractor will determine whether the client will pay a flat fee, an hourly rate, or periodically (such as weekly) depending on the type of job. A contractor can also choose a different billing method, such as stage payments (like paying 50% of a flat fee beforehand and 50% of the fee after the job is complete).
Determine if there will be any interest charged on late payments. The contract should first determine what qualifies as a late payment. Typically, 15-30 days is sufficient time to pay an invoice. Payment after that period will accrue interest. Also, the contract should determine the annual interest rate on any late payments. Consumer protection laws prohibit extortionate interest rates, even if both parties agree to them. An interest rate that exceeds the maximum rate permitted by law will not be enforceable.
Depending on the circumstances, the contractor and client may choose to include additional details that determine:
- Whether either party can end the contract early by serving notice
- Whether or not the client will reimburse reasonable, work-related expenses
- Who will own any intellectual property that the contractor creates under this contract
- If the contractor has a duty to not reveal confidential client information
To complete and execute the agreement, make sure both parties sign it. You may choose to have a witness sign the document. Complete LawDepot’s Computer Service Agreement template to create a customised document for Ireland.
Why is creating a Computer Services Agreement important?
Completing a computer service contract template might feel like extra work, but it’s an important part of hiring a computer technician that provides long-term benefits.
If a dispute occurs between a contractor and a client, a Computer Services Agreement can guide the parties to a solution because it clearly outlines the details of the agreement. Additionally, creating an agreement can help prevent disputes before they even happen. Choosing not to put terms into a written agreement can lead to misunderstandings. These misunderstandings can potentially lead to delays or even expensive lawsuits down the road.
Without agreeing on the terms in a written contract, either party could be subject to unexpected costs and delays. By laying out the details before any work begins, both parties know just what to expect when it’s billing time.