Most freelancer-client disputes in Kenya come down to one thing: unclear expectations from the start. A proper agreement isn’t about not trusting the client - it’s about ensuring both parties understand exactly what’s expected, preventing 90% of conflicts before they happen. Here’s how to protect yourself while maintaining good client relationships.
Why Written Agreements Matter
Common Kenyan freelancer story:
- Client: “Write me 10 articles”
- You: “OK, Ksh 30,000”
- Client: “Deal” (handshake or WhatsApp message)
- Work delivered
- Client: “I wanted 2,000 words each, these are only 1,200”
- You: “You didn’t specify length”
- Client: “I’m only paying half”
Could have been prevented by: Written agreement stating article length
Reality: Many Kenyan freelancers work on verbal agreements or WhatsApp messages. Works fine until it doesn’t. First dispute will teach you why contracts matter.
Legal standing:
- Written agreements hold up in court
- Verbal/chat agreements are valid but harder to prove
- Screenshots can work but proper contract better
- Even simple email agreement better than nothing
Essential Contract Elements
Minimum Agreement (Even for Small Projects)
Must include:
1. Parties involved:
- Your full name
- Client full name/company name
- Contact details (email, phone)
2. Services description:
- Exactly what you’re delivering
- Specific details (word count, dimensions, format, etc.)
- What’s NOT included
3. Timeline:
- Start date
- Delivery date/milestones
- Client response time for feedback
4. Payment terms:
- Total amount
- Currency (KES, USD, etc.)
- Payment schedule (upfront, milestone, completion)
- Payment method
- Late payment consequences
5. Revision policy:
- Number of revisions included (e.g., “2 rounds”)
- What counts as revision vs new work
- Additional revision costs
6. Ownership/copyright:
- Who owns final work
- When ownership transfers (usually upon full payment)
- Your right to use in portfolio
7. Signatures/agreement:
- Date
- Both parties agree (signature, typed name, or “I agree” response)
The best client disputes are the ones that never happen. A simple written agreement prevents most problems, clear communication during the project catches issues early, and professional boundary-setting ensures scope doesn’t creep. When disputes do arise, documentation is your best friend. Start using written agreements today - even a one-page email agreement is infinitely better than nothing.