I think I need to be firmer with customers after seeing an invoice from a big carpet and flooring firm with their terms and conditions. When I've finished the job I usually say to the customer I'll email you an invoice with payment details and if you could sort that out when you get chance it would be great. This other firms t&c's said.. A 33.3% deposit required upon order and balance payment is due within a maximum of 24hrs of completion. Interest will be charged at 29.5% per annum calculated daily if maximum time is exceeded. Bloody hell..desperate or what.
Most of the big companies require payment in full and in advance before they will start any job. With the amount of customers they have you can imagine the interest they must earn with this nice little arrangement!!
Always ask for a first payment on order (could be between 25 - 50%, depending on what the job is). Incentive both ways. We're no banks!
