>I'll add rule 11:
>Always have a signed contract before beginning work. This has bitten me in the past...never again.


I would add rule 12:
For any project between 3 and 8 man-days, get 50% down and 50% at delivery. For any project, 9 man-days or greater, get a down payment, a milestone payment(s) and a final payment that is not to exceed 25% of the whole. i.e. get at least 75% before final delivery/payment. Milestones give both parties a chance to avoid surprises and if the client is unreasonable at any point along the way, you will know how to prioritize the project.