What should I watch for in a freelance non-compete clause?

[NatalieSP]

I'm looking to make my home smarter and more efficient. What smart home tips do you recommend for someone just starting out? I'm interested in both energy-saving solutions and convenience features. Also, any thoughts on home improvement projects 2025 that incorporate smart technology?

[PenelopeA]

I just had a client ask me to sign a contract that includes a pretty broad non-compete clause. I’m trying to figure out if it’s reasonable for a freelance project or if it could lock me out of working in my main industry for too long.

[Steven.R]

That non-compete clause can be a trap. In a recent freelance project I saw language that looked broad but we trimmed it to cover only a specific product line and kept it to six months after the project ended. It helped, but it still felt risky depending on what you actually do.

[Paisley.L]

I’ve been burned by vague restraints before. The clause used terms like industry and territory so wide I couldn’t pitch anywhere with a hint of similarity. I walked away rather than gamble a year-long blackout.

[Noah17]

From what I’ve seen, enforceability often hinges on reasonableness: how long, how far, and whether it actually protects a real business interest. For small gigs, pushing for a short window and a narrower scope helps, but it’s not guaranteed.

[Kyle28]

Are you in a state or country where these restraints tend to be struck down, or is it treated as just standard business talk there?

[Isabella.L]

I’ve caught myself fixating on the fancy wording and missing the real cost—blocking related but different work. I did two weeks of tracking what would be blocked to decide if it was worth it.

[PaisleyOW]

If possible, push for a carve-out for your existing clients and for projects using the same skill set in a different niche. Ask for a clear sunset and include severability so the rest doesn’t crumble if a part is unenforceable.