Last checked October 2026 · by the PaySorted team
Which terms to use
| Customer | Typical terms |
|---|---|
| Homeowners, small jobs | On completion / due on receipt, or 7 days |
| Homeowners, larger jobs | Deposit up front, stage payments, balance within 7 days of completion |
| Landlords & letting agents | 14 days |
| Contractors & businesses | 14 or 30 days (whatever you agree) |
How to write them
Be specific. Instead of "net 14", write the actual date: "Payment due by 19 October 2026". Add how to pay — bank details with the invoice number as the reference, or a link to pay by card.
Payment due within 14 days of the invoice date (by 19 October 2026). Please pay by bank transfer using the invoice number as your reference, or pay online using the link provided.
What the law says
Between businesses, if no payment terms are agreed, payment is due 30 days after the customer gets the invoice or the work is done. Terms over 60 days are only allowed if they were expressly agreed and aren't grossly unfair. If a business pays late you can claim statutory interest and compensation.
Deposits and stage payments
For bigger jobs, agree a deposit (often 25–50%) before you start, so materials are covered — and invoice in stages as the work progresses. Put this in your quote so it's agreed up front.
Make the terms stick
Terms only work if someone follows them up. PaySorted shows the due date on every invoice and sends reminders before, on and after it — automatically, until the customer pays.
Common questions
What are normal payment terms for a tradesman?
For homeowners, payment on completion or within 7 days is common. For business customers, 14 or 30 days.
What happens if no payment terms are agreed?
Between businesses, the law sets a default of 30 days from receiving the invoice or completion of the work.
Should I ask for a deposit?
For bigger jobs, yes — a deposit of 25–50% covers your materials and shows the customer is committed.