A Landowner's Guide to Timber Sale Contracts

• Introduction
• Contract Basics
• BMPs and Contracts
• More Basics
• Sample Contract
• Essential Contract Items
• Essential Items Continued
• Other Important Considerations
• Other Important Considerations Continued
• Special Considerations
• Tips
• Conclusion

Introduction

A written timber sale agreement or contract is generally the preferable and safest method of selling timber. A written contract is a legally binding document that protects both the buyer and the seller (the landowner) from misunderstandings that may develop in the absence of such an agreement. A contract will verify the seller’s ownership of the timber to be sold and the absence of liens or other liabilities. There is little legal recourse with verbal agreements. By negotiating a contract, both parties are likely to work out difficulties before they occur and be more pleased with the transaction.

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