Freelance Project Manager Contract Template UK
Without a robust written agreement, freelance project managers risk scope creep, delayed payments, and disputes over IR35 status that can prove costly for both parties. A dedicated freelance project manager contract establishes clear boundaries around deliverables, timelines, and the working relationship — helping demonstrate genuine self-employment under Chapter 10 of the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003. It also protects your right to statutory interest on overdue invoices under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act 1998 and safeguards confidential client information throughout the engagement. Whether you are managing a construction programme, an IT rollout, or an organisational change initiative, a professionally drafted contract gives both sides legal certainty from day one. Generate your tailored UK freelance project manager contract now and get started with confidence.
Generate your Freelance Contract free →Key clauses in a Freelance Contract
Scope and Deliverables
This clause precisely defines the project scope, specific deliverables, milestones, and what falls outside the agreed engagement, preventing unauthorised scope creep. For freelance project managers, a tightly drafted scope is also critical evidence of a defined outcome-based engagement, which supports genuine self-employment status under HMRC's IR35 guidance and Chapter 10 ITEPA 2003.
Substitution and Control
This clause establishes the freelancer's right to send a qualified substitute to perform the services, a key indicator of independent contractor status when assessing IR35 under Chapter 10 ITEPA 2003. It also limits the client's right to control how the work is performed, reinforcing that the project manager operates as a business rather than a disguised employee.
Payment Terms and Late Fees
This clause sets out the fee structure, invoice schedule, and payment deadlines, along with the automatic right to charge statutory interest at 8% above the Bank of England base rate on overdue amounts under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act 1998. Including a debt recovery compensation provision under the same Act — ranging from £40 to £100 per invoice — further deters late payment by the client.
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Generate free →Frequently asked questions
Does a freelance project manager contract protect me from an IR35 investigation?
A well-drafted contract alone does not guarantee outside-IR35 status, but it is an important piece of evidence HMRC considers when assessing whether Chapter 10 ITEPA 2003 applies. The contract must accurately reflect the real working arrangements, particularly around substitution, control, and mutuality of obligation — HMRC will look beyond the written document to actual working practices. Ensuring both the contract and day-to-day conduct align is the strongest protection available.
Can I charge interest if a client pays my project management invoice late?
Yes — under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act 1998, you are automatically entitled to claim statutory interest at 8% above the Bank of England base rate on any overdue business-to-business invoice. You can also claim fixed debt recovery compensation of £40, £70, or £100 depending on the invoice value, plus reasonable recovery costs. These rights apply even if your contract does not explicitly mention them, though including the provisions clearly in your contract makes enforcement straightforward.
Who owns the project documents and deliverables I create as a freelance project manager?
Under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, intellectual property created by a freelancer defaults to the freelancer, not the client — unlike work created by an employee. Your contract should include an explicit IP assignment clause if the client requires ownership of project plans, reports, or other deliverables, or a licence clause if you wish to retain ownership while granting the client usage rights. Without a clear contractual provision, disputes over document ownership are common and can delay project handover.
The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contracto generates AI-assisted contract templates — they are not a substitute for advice from a qualified solicitor. For high-value or complex engagements, always seek independent legal review.