These policies & terms apply to all custom woodworking, fabrication, design, and restoration work. They protect both the Client and the Craftsman, and ensure clear expectations from start to finish.
By requesting a quote, approving an estimate, sending a deposit, or allowing work to begin, the Client agrees to all terms on this page.
1. payments
- A 50% non-refundable deposit is required before any materials are purchased and/or work begins
- The remaining balance is due before pickup, delivery, and/or installation.
- All payments are non-refundable because every project is custom-made
- Work does not begin until the deposit clears
- Completed items will not leave the shop until paid in full
2. design work
- Design fees, drawings, templates, and mockups (if required) are non-refundable.
- If the Client moves forward with the build, 50% of the design fee is credited toward the final invoice.
- All designs, drawings, and digital files remain the Craftman’s intellectual property.
- Unauthorized use, sharing, or reproduction of designs is not permitted.
3. scope of work
- Only the items and details written in the approved estimate are included in the project.
- Anything not listed is not included.
- Changes to the scope require a written change order, which may affect price and timeline.
- Verbal additions or “can you also…” requests must be approved in writing.
4. materials & natural variation
- Wood is a natural material and will vary in grain, color, texture, and appearance.
- These natural variations are not considered defects.
- The Craftsman is not responsible for wood movement (expansion, contraction, warping) caused by humidity, temperature changes, or improper storage.
- Exact color matches cannot be guaranteed across different boards or species.
5. timelines
- All timelines are estimates, not guarantees.
- Delays may occur due to wood movement, curing and drying times, supply shortages, weather, or workload.
- Rush jobs may incur additional fees.
- Work does not begin until the deposit is received and design decisions are finalized.
6. cancellations
if the client cancels:
- All deposits, design fees, and payments are non-refundable.
- Any cancellation results in the forfeiture of payments already made.
if the craftsman cancels:
The Craftsman reserves the right to cancel a project at any time if conditions arise that prevent the work from being completed safely, ethically, or within reasonable expectations.
If this occurs, the Client will receive a refund of any unused funds, minus design fees and any materials already purchased for the project.
This protects the Craftsman from unreasonable clients or unsafe project conditions while maintaining fairness.
7. pickup, delivery, & storage
- The Client is responsible for safe handling and transport unless delivery is included in the estimate.
- Once an item leaves the shop, the Craftsman is not responsible for damage caused during transport or installation.
- Completed items must be picked up within 14 days unless otherwise agreed.
- Items left unclaimed for 45 days may be considered abandoned and may be resold, discarded, or retained.
8. installation (if included)
- The Client must ensure the installation site is ready and accessible.
- The Craftsman is not responsible for issues related to uneven walls, poor framing, unexpected obstructions, or structural problems.
- Additional on-site work due to unforseen conditions may require extra charges.
9. warranty
A 30-day workmanship warranty applies to structural craftsmanship only.
Not covered:
- Wood movement (expansion, contraction, warping)
- Moisture or water damage
- Sun or weather exposure
- Incorrect installation (if not installed by the Craftsman)
- Abuse, neglect, impact, modification, or misuse
- Natural grain and color variation
10. safety, privacy, & property
- Clients may not enter the shop, home, or property without permission.
- Unauthorized entry voids all liability and may be considered trespassing.
- The Craftsman is not responsible for injuries or accidents resulting from unauthorized access.
11. photos & marketing
- The Craftsman may photograph projects before, during, and after completion for marketing purposes unless the Client requests otherwise in writing before work begins.
12. disputes
- All disputes will be handled exclusively in the Craftsman’s local small-claims court.
- Chargebacks, online harassment, or defamatory posts are considered breaches of contract.
- The Client agrees to attempt reasonable communication before taking legal action.
13. agreement by conduct
By requesting a quote, approving an estimate, sending a deposit, delivering materials, or allowing work to begin, the Client automatically agrees to all the terms & policies listed on this page.
These policies are part of every estimate, invoice, and work order – with or without a physical signature.
© Dysert Custom Woodwork. All Rights Reserved
By requesting a quote or paying a deposit, you agree to these terms & policies.