Utah Contractor Practice Exam

Which of the following statements best exemplifies vagueness in a contract?

1. The second payment is due when 60% of the work is done

2. The contractor warranties all work for one year

3. Rehang the front door so that it closes and locks properly

4. Fill in and smooth the dog scratches as much as possible and paint the door

The correct answer is: Fill in and smooth the dog scratches as much as possible and paint the door

The statement that best exemplifies vagueness in a contract is about filling in and smoothing the dog scratches as much as possible and painting the door. This choice lacks specific details regarding the extent of work required, the methods to be used, and what "as much as possible" actually means. The phrase introduces ambiguity, which can lead to subjective interpretation by both parties regarding the quality and thoroughness of the work. In a contract, clarity and specificity are crucial to ensure that all parties have the same understanding of their obligations. The other statements provide clearer guidelines and measurable criteria. For instance, stating that payment is due upon completion of 60% of the work outlines a specific milestone, and warranty terms are unambiguous in the time frame. Similarly, the requirement to rehang the door implies a specific task without ambiguous qualifiers. In contrast, the choice involving dog scratches relies on subjective judgment, leading to potential disputes about whether the work was completed satisfactorily.