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In my operation I offer my clients a Statement of work. This details the entire scope of the deal's points that both parties sign off BEFORE work starts .. This way we know the expectations of BOTH sides.
I have progress payments in my statements of work as well that we have documents to accept the milestones mutually that are signed off on and payment remitted.
Payment:
1. New clients: 50% down to start, 25% progress payment at halfway mark and 25% at completion.
2. Existing clients: 1/3 to start, 1/3 as progress at halfway mark and last 1/3 at completion.
This has worked well for 10 years now to ensure that only a minimal risk is out there.
Documentation that is signed, project plans, agreed touchbase meeting times/dates, phone conversations, emails, IMs, etc work wonders.
#1 most important rule in business: NEVER ASSUME.
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