Interior Design Contract

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Yes, contracts should outline:

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.

The contract includes:

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.