Throughout a project, both clients and freelancers have responsibilities and commitments they are expected to meet. When either party fails to meet these commitments or violates Workana's policies, a breach notice may be issued on their account.
In this article, we'll explain when a breach notice may be issued, how it can affect your profile, and what you can do to avoid one.
1. What is a breach notice?
A breach notice is a negative record that may be added to a client’s or freelancer’s profile when they fail to meet the commitments agreed upon during a project or violate Workana's policies.
It's important to understand that a breach notice is not limited to projects that have been canceled. It may also be issued when a project is completed if conduct that violates the agreed terms or platform policies is identified during its development.
2. In what situations can I receive a breach notice?
A breach notice may be issued, among other situations, when:
- The freelancer fails to meet the agreed delivery deadlines.
- Either party stops responding or fails to maintain proper communication, affecting the progress of the project.
- Either party unilaterally cancels the project without a valid reason.
- The delivered work does not match the scope or conditions initially agreed upon.
- Either party requests partial or full payment outside the established platform procedures.
- Either party violates Workana's policies.
Each situation is reviewed based on the specific circumstances of the project and the available information.
3. Can I receive a breach notice if the project was canceled by mutual agreement?
Yes. Even if the client and freelancer agree to cancel a project, this does not automatically rule out the possibility of receiving a breach notice.
Workana may review what happened even when:
- The project is canceled through a mutual cancellation agreement.
- The client voluntarily releases the escrow funds.
- The project ends without a formal dispute.
This is because the review considers whether the parties fulfilled their commitments and complied with Workana's policies, not just the outcome of the cancellation or the release of funds.
4. How can a breach notice affect my profile?
Breach notices may affect your account level and your ability to remain on the platform.
The penalty is calculated based on the percentage of breaches in relation to completed projects.
| Breach percentage | Consequence |
|---|---|
| More than 50% | Account closure |
| Between 20% and 50% | Bronze level for 90 days |
| Between 5% and 20% | Reduction of two levels for 60 days |
| Less than 5% | Reduction of one level for 30 days |
In addition, regardless of the breach percentage, the profile will be blocked from reaching Hero level for 90 days.
The penalty is applied when a new breach notice is issued. The lowest level an account can be downgraded to for this reason is Bronze.
5. How can I avoid receiving a breach notice?
The best way to prevent issues is to establish clear terms from the beginning and maintain transparent communication throughout the project.
We recommend the following:
Before starting:
- Clearly define the project scope and deliverables.
- Agree on deadlines and conditions with the other party.
- Make sure the project is properly set up on Workana.
- For fixed-price projects, verify that the funds have been deposited into escrow before starting work.
During the project:
- Keep all conversations and agreements in Workana's chat.
- Let the other party know in advance if an issue may affect the agreed deadlines.
- Keep a record of progress and deliveries.
- Make sure any changes to the project scope or schedule are approved before proceeding.
- Respond to messages and maintain active communication.
If a problem arises:
- Try to communicate with the other party to find a solution.
- Do not make payment or communication arrangements outside the platform.
- If you cannot resolve the issue, contact our Support Team for guidance.
6. How is a potential breach reviewed?
Every situation may involve different circumstances. That's why Workana may review the information available for the project, including:
- The terms and conditions initially agreed upon.
- The conversation history within the platform.
- Deadlines and completed deliveries.
- Any subsequent agreements between the parties.
- Evidence related to the project's progress.
A cancellation, mediation, or negative review does not automatically mean that a breach notice will be issued. Each case is assessed based on the circumstances and commitments involved.
7. Need help?
If you experience difficulties during a project or are unsure how to handle a disagreement, we recommend contacting our Support Team before making a decision that could affect your account.
You can also check our Help Center articles about mediation, cancellations, and Workana's policies.
Remember: keeping agreements clear, documenting your work, and communicating through the platform are the best ways to protect your experience on Workana.