SEO contract template

This a seo contract template sample that you can use free of charge. You can copy and paste it into Microsoft Word or Google Docs and edit as you like.

SEO Contract

This SEO Contract (the "Contract") is entered into on _________________________ [Date] by and between:

SEO service provider: _________________________ [Agency or Consultant Name] located at _________________________ [Provider Address] (the "Provider").
Client: _________________________ [Client Name] located at _________________________ [Client Address] (the "Client").

1. Scope of Services

The Provider agrees to provide search engine optimization (SEO) services to the Client as outlined below:

1. Service Description

The Provider shall perform SEO services for the Client’s website located at _________________________ [Website URL] on _________________________ [Days of the Week], between the hours of _________________________ [Start Time] and _________________________ [End Time], as reasonably required to fulfill the services.

2. Services Included

The SEO services shall include but are not limited to:

_________________________ [Keyword research and search intent analysis]
_________________________ [On-page SEO optimization]
_________________________ [Technical SEO audits and fixes]
_________________________ [Content optimization or recommendations]
_________________________ [Internal linking strategy]
_________________________ [Backlink analysis and off-page SEO]
_________________________ [SEO performance tracking and reporting]
_________________________ [Other SEO-related tasks as agreed upon by both parties]

3. Frequency

The services shall be performed _________________________ [Frequency] per _________________________ [Week/Month].

2. Terms of Contract

This Contract shall commence on _________________________ [Start Date] and shall continue for an initial term of _________________________ [Number] months/years, unless terminated earlier as provided herein.
After the initial term, this Contract shall automatically renew for successive periods of _________________________ [Number] months/years, unless either party provides written notice of termination at least _________________________ [Number] days prior to the expiration of the then-current term.

3. Payment Terms

The Client agrees to pay the Provider a total sum of $_________________________ [Amount] per _________________________ [Frequency] for the SEO services rendered.
Payment shall be made _________________________ [Payment Method] within _________________________ [Number] days of receipt of invoice.
Late payments shall incur a late fee of _________________________ [Late Fee Amount] for each week the payment is overdue.

4. Termination

Either party may terminate this Contract by providing written notice to the other party _________________________ [Number] days prior to the intended termination date.
In the event of termination, the Client shall pay for all services rendered up to the termination date.

5. Force Majeure

Neither party shall be liable for any failure or delay in performing their obligations under this Contract if such failure or delay is due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, civil unrest, government action, fire, flood, or natural disasters.

6. Confidentiality

Both parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of any proprietary, strategic, or sensitive information disclosed during the course of this Contract, including website data, analytics, and business information.

7. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of _________________________ [Your State or Country]. Any disputes arising out of or in connection with this Contract shall be resolved exclusively by the courts of _________________________ [Your State or County].

8. Entire Agreement

This Contract constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements, understandings, and negotiations, whether written or oral.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Contract as of the date first above written.

Provider
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name and Title]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

Client
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

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What's an SEO Contract?

An SEO contract is a legal agreement between two parties, typically a client and an SEO service provider, outlining the terms and conditions under which search engine optimization services will be delivered. This contract helps set clear expectations, define responsibilities, and protect both parties by documenting deliverables, timelines, and performance standards. In this article, we'll explore the key elements of an SEO contract, why it matters, and what to consider before entering into one.

1. Definition and Scope

An SEO contract defines the scope of SEO services to be provided, such as on-page optimization, technical SEO, content optimization, keyword research, and link-building efforts. It clarifies what is included, what is excluded, and the overall objectives of the SEO engagement, such as improving search visibility, rankings, or organic traffic.

2. Parties Involved

The contract clearly identifies the parties involved: the client receiving SEO services and the SEO consultant or agency providing them. It includes legal names, contact information, and any relevant business details, ensuring accountability and transparency for both sides.

3. Terms and Conditions

SEO contracts outline the terms and conditions governing the agreement, including pricing, payment schedules, reporting frequency, and communication expectations.
They often address important limitations, such as the fact that specific rankings or results cannot be guaranteed, as well as clauses covering liability, dispute resolution, and acceptable SEO practices.

4. Duration and Renewal

The contract specifies the duration of the SEO engagement, whether it is a short-term project or an ongoing monthly service. It may include renewal terms, termination clauses, notice periods, and conditions under which the agreement can be modified or ended by either party.

5. Service Specifications

Detailed service specifications are essential in an SEO contract. These may include the tools used, reporting metrics, content responsibilities, technical requirements, and approval processes. Clearly defining deliverables and quality standards helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures the client knows exactly what to expect.

6. Legal Compliance

SEO contracts should comply with applicable laws and regulations, including advertising standards, data protection laws, and intellectual property rights. They may also require adherence to search engine guidelines to avoid unethical or black-hat SEO practices that could harm the client’s website.

7. Confidentiality and Privacy

Confidentiality clauses protect sensitive business information, website data, analytics, and strategies shared during the SEO engagement. Privacy considerations are especially important when the SEO provider has access to backend systems, user data, or proprietary content.

Conclusion

SEO contracts are essential for establishing a clear, professional relationship between clients and SEO service providers. By defining the scope of services, expectations, timelines, and legal protections, these agreements reduce risk and build trust on both sides. Whether you're hiring an SEO expert or offering SEO services, understanding and using a well-structured SEO contract is key to a successful and sustainable partnership.