Price before you mobilise
A written estimate with a clear validity window reduces awkward renegotiation after materials are bought.
When the client accepts, convert to an invoice so the commercial detail does not get rewritten from memory.
Bill on a cadence you can keep
Weekly or fortnightly billing for ongoing work beats one giant surprise invoice. Recurring schedules help when retainers are predictable.
Match due dates to how your clients actually pay (for example 7 or 14 days for consumers, longer for builder admin).
Watch the open balance
Partial payments are normal on larger jobs. Record every transfer so you know what is still outstanding.
Ageing views and overdue lists turn follow-up into a short weekly habit instead of a scramble at BAS time.