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Question
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Hi Ken,
    We install CCTV systems in NY, I am licensed. We also install, through subs in NJ and CT. one of our large national accounts is the reason why we are spread over the 3 states and may even go into additional states in the future.
    I do not use contracts  now, but after reading your news letter I know I need to and want to get things going right now.
    We generally install the system and turn it over to the customer, we do not provide service contracts or monitoring although maybe we should. 99% of the time the customer either pays us directly for the system or, pays a 3rd party leasing company if they finance.
    What contract/contracts do you recommend?
Regards,
MFV
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Answer
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    You should using the CCTV Sale Contract.  
    By not using proper contracts you are exposing yourself to liability that you should not have to risk.  You need a contract to "contract away liability for your own negligence" because that is the best way you are going to be able to avoid a lawsuit if your subscriber suffers a loss.  No point building a successful business only to have to turn it over to one of your creditors.  
    Perhaps a more immediate problem is that you're short changing yourself.  I won't be overly harsh by telling you that you don't have to worry about losing a successful business - because it's not likely you have one since you don't use contracts - so I will gently remind you that by not building Recurring Monthly Revenue under proper contracts you are not building equity in your business in the typical and acceptable way it's done in the alarm business.  
    There is no excuse for not using proper contracts.  This isn't 1980.  I can understand that some of your subscribers may not want to sign your contract and insist that you sign their contract, which basically contradicts the terms of your contract in almost every way that is important.  But to not even have a contract to present to your subscriber. that is not an acceptable way of conducting business in 2012.  For CCTV get the CCTV Sales contract.  If you do other electronic security then get the proper contracts at alarmcontracts.com      
    Once you start using contracts you can find out what your business is worth at WhatsMyAlarmCompanyWorth.com

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