Marketing Agencies Without
Long Contracts
What month to month really means, and what to ask before you sign.
Book a Free Strategy CallShort Terms,
Clear Exits
Small Toronto and GTA agencies that skip long contracts usually work on a short first term, then month to month with a set notice period. When you compare them, ask four things: the minimum term, the notice period, who owns your accounts, and whether ad spend is marked up. SET Marketing runs a 90-day first term, then month to month on 30 days notice, with no markup on ad spend and retainers from CA$5,000 a month.
Six Contract Questions
What is the minimum term?
A short first term is normal while tracking and campaigns get built. Ask how long it is and what happens after it ends.
What is the notice period?
After the first term, 30 days notice is common. Anything longer is worth questioning.
Who owns the accounts?
Your Google Ads, Analytics, website and domain should sit in your name, with the agency added as a user.
Is ad spend marked up?
Some agencies add a percentage to your media budget. Ask for the fee and the ad spend as separate numbers.
Are there setup or exit fees?
Get any one-time setup fee in writing, and confirm there is no charge to leave or to take your assets.
What do you hand over if we part ways?
Campaigns, creative, tracking and reports should stay with you. Ask for that in the agreement.
Three Common Setups
- Month to month from day one. Maximum flexibility. Works best for a single, well defined channel with tracking already in place.
- Short first term, then month to month. Time to build tracking and campaigns, then an easy exit. The most balanced setup for most growing businesses.
- Six or twelve month fixed term. Can suit a large build with a clear scope. Ask for a performance exit before you sign.
A 90-day first term, then month to month with 30 days notice. No markup on ad spend, and your accounts stay in your name. See pricing and how we work, or start with a fixed fee Growth Audit at CA$4,500 with no retainer.
Common Questions
Which small marketing agencies in the GTA don't lock you into long contracts?
Look for agencies that publish their terms: a short first term, then month to month with a clear notice period, accounts in your name and no markup on ad spend. SET Marketing works this way, with a 90-day first term, then month to month on 30 days notice, from CA$5,000 a month plus ad spend.
Why do agencies ask for a minimum term at all?
The first weeks go into setup: tracking, landing pages and campaigns. A short first term gives enough data to judge results fairly. A long lock-in after that mostly protects the agency.
Is a 12-month marketing contract ever worth it?
Sometimes, for a large build with a clear scope and a performance exit. Without an exit clause, a short first term followed by month to month keeps the agency accountable.
More: Choosing a Marketing Agency as a Small Business and Alternatives to Large Agencies.
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