Are you self-employed, SME, freelancer or run a web shop? Then you may have heard about the importance of good general terms and conditions. But what exactly are general terms and conditions, why are they important, and when are they legally valid? We answer all your questions and help you draw up customized general terms and conditions, adapted to your sector and activities.
What are general terms and conditions and why are they important?
Terms and conditions are written agreements in which you lay down the rules and modalities that apply to your collaboration with customers or suppliers. They govern matters such as payment terms, liability, delivery, cancellation, complaint procedures, and more. Why are general terms and conditions important? They protect your business from discussions, limit risks and provide legal clarity. Without good terms and conditions, you are at the mercy of general legislation, which does not always play in your favor.
When are general terms and conditions valid and legal?
General terms and conditions are legally valid when they are properly brought to the customer's attention before or at the conclusion of the contract. They must also be accepted by the customer. Terms and conditions on the invoice alone often do not suffice. Want to know when general terms and conditions are valid? We would be happy to advise you.
We also help you when in doubt: are my terms and conditions still up to date? Or are they still applicable? Have your general terms and conditions checked by a specialized lawyer.
Drafting general terms and conditions in Belgium: our approach
We offer legal assistance in drafting general terms and conditions for:
- Webshops (both B2B and B2C): webshop general terms and conditions, including right of withdrawal, terms of delivery and complaint handling.
- Quotes and invoices: general conditions on quotation and general conditions on invoice, with proper integration into the quotation and invoicing process.
- Service providers: marketing agencies, IT service providers, psychologists, coaches, photographers, DJs and more.
- Construction and engineering: general conditions for contractors, electricians, painters, plumbers, interior designers, handymen, etc.
- Leases: general terms and conditions rental agreement for office space and retail space.
- Suppliers and sole proprietors: proper protection when supplying goods or services.
General terms and conditions in English or French
Do you have international customers? We draw up your general terms and conditions in English or French, in accordance with Belgian law. So you are protected, even across national borders.
General legal advice and concerns
We take into account Belgian legislation on general terms and conditions, including provisions on abusive clauses, information obligations, and the use of black and gray lists among consumers. Not sure which general terms and conditions apply or which general terms and conditions take precedence in the event of a contradiction? We provide a legally conclusive solution.
Also see here our detailed explanation on legal concerns with general terms and conditions.
Change or have general terms and conditions created
Want to change your terms and conditions or have new ones created? We provide clear, customized terms and conditions that fit your specific activities and risks. Whether you run a nail salon, catering business, construction company or IT company: we make your legal documents conclusive and professional.
Get your terms and conditions legally checked
Do you already have general terms and conditions, but doubt their legal quality? Let us check your terms and conditions. We ensure that your terms and conditions comply with current legislation and practice.
Why work with a lawyer?
Terms and conditions are more than a standard document. An experienced lawyer thinks along with your company and makes sure that your terms and conditions fit your sector, customers and commercial strategy. We are ready to draw up legally correct general terms and conditions, review them and amend them where necessary.
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