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Learn more about Interior Design Contract in Hong Kong

An Interior Design Contract is a legally binding agreement between a client and an interior designer outlining the terms of their collaboration. This contract sets clear expectations, responsibilities, and deliverables for both parties, covering key aspects such as scope of work, project timelines, payment terms, and intellectual property rights. It ensures that both the client and designer are aligned on project goals, preventing potential disputes and promoting smooth execution. Given its importance in safeguarding both parties’ interests, an Interior Design Contract is essential for ensuring compliance with Hong Kong’s legal regulations. At Themis Partner, we offer a professionally drafted Interior Design Contract, easy to edit in Word format, tailored to meet local legal requirements. Download it today to streamline your project and ensure a clear, transparent working relationship.

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Table of contents

    1. What is an Interior Design Contract in Hong Kong?
    2. What is included in this Interior Design Contract?
    3. Why do I need an Interior Design Contract for my project?
    4. How do payment terms work in an Interior Design Contract?
    5. Can an Interior Design Contract cover project timelines and deadlines?
    6. How does an Interior Design Contract protect both parties?
    7. Can the Interior Design Contract include a termination clause?
    8. Is an Interior Design Contract legally binding in Hong Kong?
    9. What should I do if there is a dispute in the Interior Design Contract?

What is an Interior Design Contract in Hong Kong?

An Interior Design Contract in Hong Kong is a legally binding agreement between a client and an interior designer. It defines the scope of the project, sets expectations, and outlines payment, timelines, and dispute resolution procedures. This document is critical for projects involving home renovations, commercial refurbishments, or office design. Due to strict local regulations and high property values, clear documentation is essential. A well-structured contract avoids misunderstandings, especially when multiple parties (contractors, suppliers, consultants) are involved. For details on legal contract enforceability, consult the Department of Justice Hong Kong e-Legislation.Coordinating project execution on behalf of a third party or investor? Download the Brokerage Agreement to formalize intermediary obligations and legal responsibilities.

What is included in this Interior Design Contract?

A comprehensive Interior Design Contract in Hong Kong should include the following key clauses:

➤ Project Description: Details the property address, surface area, and the design scope covered under the contract.
➤ Term of Agreement: Specifies the contract’s start date and its valid duration, including how extensions can be granted.
➤ Designer’s Services: Outlines each project stage, such as concept ideation, drawings, procurement, and site supervision.
➤ Designer’s Fees: Breaks down the fee schedule, including deposits, milestone payments, and what’s included or excluded.
➤ Reimbursement and Expenses: Lists out-of-pocket costs covered by the client, such as materials, delivery, or travel.
➤ Changes to Services: Details the process for revising the scope or deliverables, including how new charges are calculated.
➤ Client’s Liability: Highlights the client’s role in providing information, decisions, and access to the property.
➤ Designer’s Liability: Limits financial exposure in the event of delays or errors, capped at the fees paid.
➤ Non-Disclosure: Secures confidentiality of the designer’s proprietary materials and intellectual property.
➤ Termination Clause: Defines when and how either party may terminate the contract.
➤ Intellectual Property Rights: Asserts ownership of all designs and documents by the designer.
➤ Force Majeure: Protects both parties from uncontrollable events such as pandemics or government restrictions.
➤ Entire Agreement: States that no outside agreements apply unless added in writing.
➤ Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Confirms that the contract is governed by Hong Kong law.

Always attach supporting documents like floor plans, mood boards, or budgets to clarify deliverables. For reference on interior design regulations, visit the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors.

ℹ️  If your interior designer is working in tandem with an architect, make sure both roles are clearly defined. Download the Architect Contract to formalize the scope of architectural responsibilities.

  • Remarks:

To avoid conflicts, always ensure any changes to services or scope are formally agreed in writing. Verbal instructions may lead to disputes and aren’t legally enforceable under Hong Kong contract law.

Why do I need an Interior Design Contract for my project?

1. Key Benefits of Using a Contract

An Interior Design Contract protects your investment and helps manage expectations. Without it, you risk cost overruns, delays, or legal disputes. It clearly defines what services are included, when they’ll be delivered, and how much they’ll cost.

2. Who Should Use It?

Whether you’re hiring a freelance interior designer or a full design firm, this document formalizes the relationship and reduces ambiguity, especially for mid- to large-scale projects. Planning to purchase a property before starting your renovation project? Download the Real Estate Agent Agreement to ensure your transaction is handled by a licensed agent and aligned with Hong Kong real estate laws.

How do payment terms work in an Interior Design Contract?

Payment terms in an Interior Design Contract typically include an initial deposit, which is usually non-refundable, followed by milestone-based payments that correspond to key project stages such as concept presentation, material approval, or site supervision milestones. A final payment is often due upon project completion. In addition to these structured payments, some designers may charge hourly rates or fixed fees depending on the service. Reimbursable expenses like procurement fees or travel costs are usually invoiced separately. It is best practice to clearly outline due dates, accepted payment methods, and late payment penalties in the contract to avoid confusion and disputes.

  • Remarks:

Designers should clearly list all reimbursable expenses and procurement costs to prevent later disagreement with the client over hidden charges or assumptions.

Can an Interior Design Contract cover project timelines and deadlines?

Yes, contracts should outline:

➤ Start date and end date
➤ Design phase durations
➤ Submission deadlines ( mood boards, layout proposals, 3D visuals)

Timelines may be flexible depending on product lead times or site readiness. Some contracts include a grace period or allow for renegotiation if delays are caused by the client or suppliers.

How does an Interior Design Contract protect both parties?

The contract includes:

➤ Indemnity clauses to protect against third-party claims
➤ Limitation of liability in case of negligence or incomplete work
➤ Dispute resolution clauses (see Q9)

Intellectual property and non-disclosure clauses protect the designer’s work from being reused or distributed without permission.

ℹ️  While the Interior Design Contract offers protection regarding design scope and project supervision, it does not cover legal responsibilities related to the execution of construction work. Download the Construction Contract to ensure contractors are legally bound to timelines, quality standards, and safety compliance under Hong Kong law.

Can the Interior Design Contract include a termination clause?

Yes, a termination clause is a vital component of any Interior Design Contract in Hong Kong. It enables either the client or the designer to end the agreement under specific circumstances such as breach of contract, non-payment, repeated delays, or mutual consent. The clause typically defines the required notice period, any compensation or final payments owed, and the rights each party retains after termination. For example, the designer may retain rights to unfinished designs, and the client may be responsible for paying for all completed work up to the termination date. Including this clause helps prevent costly legal conflict in case the collaboration needs to end prematurely.

Is an Interior Design Contract legally binding in Hong Kong?

1. Legal Status

As long as the contract has clear terms, valid consent, and lawful intent, it is enforceable under Hong Kong contract law. The document can be used as evidence in legal proceedings or arbitration.

2. Formal Requirements

It should be signed by both parties, include the full scope of services, and mention jurisdiction and governing law. For further guidance, consult resources on the Hong Kong Legal Information Institute.

What should I do if there is a dispute in the Interior Design Contract?

1. Steps for Dispute Resolution

➤ Attempt to resolve the issue directly
➤ Use mediation or arbitration, if included in the contract
➤ Seek legal recourse via the Hong Kong courts as a last resort

2. Common Disputes

➤ Delays or non-performance
➤ Disagreements over payment
➤ Copyright or intellectual property misuse

Include a dispute resolution clause specifying the preferred method and legal forum. For arbitration support, you can visit the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre.

Conclusion: Why does an Interior Design Contract matter in Hong Kong?

For homeowners and businesses investing in renovation or decoration projects, having a legally sound Interior Design Contract in Hong Kong is essential to protect your financial and creative interests. This agreement helps avoid misunderstandings, ensures deliverables are met, and provides legal recourse if issues arise. If you require assistance in drafting or reviewing your Interior Design Contract, Themis Partner offers professionally prepared documents tailored by legal experts in property and design law. Download today your Interior Design Contract to make sure your project complies with all legal standards in Hong Kong.

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