What Are The Common Types Of Business Contracts?

Commercial Law Posted 28 May 2026

Business contracts are often seen as the backbone of successful businesses. They lay out expectations, agreements, terms, conditions and obligations. A good business contract will protect the business and put their beat interests at the heart. There are common types of business contracts, yet every business contract needs to be different and unique to the business.

It may be tempting to download a free business contract template for the common types of business contracts online. However, this is not recommended. It will be too late when you realise that the business contract you have downloaded online isn’t legal, doesn’t protect your business or may be missing an essential part of what your business does. This is why you need to speak to a professional commercial lawyer with experience in business contracts.

As a business owner you will encounter a wide range of business contracts. Each one will serve a different purpose for you and the other party within the agreement. However, there are some common types of business contracts that you can expect to see more frequently.

These common types of business contracts include employment contracts. These contracts protect both your business and employees. This is because the employment contract clearly defines the role of the employee and employer. It also lays out responsibilities and expectations for both parties.

Another common type of business contract is the partnership agreement. This contract will outline the terms of the business partnership. It needs to be in place to help prevent future disputes which can be costly and time-consuming to resolve.

It is likely that you will come across supplier contracts within your business too. A supplier contract is drafted to ensure smooth operations with the vendors. The contract will set our clear terms for deliveries and services. This means that both parties know what to expect and what is expected of them.

You are likely to need non-disclosure agreements, also known as NDAs, in your business too. Contracts like this are in place to protect sensitive information within your business. They are a robust confidentiality agreement.

Renting a premises for your business means you may also come across lease agreements. Our business contract lawyers can help you negotiate favourable terms when leasing a commercial property for your business.

Need to ensure that these common types of business contracts are protecting your business? Contact our business contract solicitors now. We can review, draft and negotiate these contracts to protect you and your business.