Contract guide
Non-Compete Red Flags: What to Check Before You Sign
A non-compete can quietly limit how you earn a living for years after a job or contract ends. Some are reasonable; many are overbroad (and, increasingly, unenforceable). Here's what to look for before you sign one.
1. Scope that's wider than the actual job
A non-compete should be tied to what you actually did. If it bars you from an entire industry when your role was narrow, that's a red flag — and often a sign it won't hold up.
2. Geography that doesn't match the business
A nationwide (or worldwide) restriction for a local role is a classic overreach. Reasonable non-competes are limited to where the business actually operates and competes.
3. Duration
Six months to a year is common; multi-year restrictions are aggressive and harder to enforce. Check how long you'd be locked out.
4. What counts as a “competitor”
Vague definitions (“any company in a similar field”) can be read expansively. Look for a specific, bounded definition of who you can't work for.
5. Non-solicit riding along
Many non-competes also bar you from soliciting former clients or coworkers. Read those clauses too — they can outlast the non-compete itself.
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Analyze a contract →Frequently asked
Are non-competes even enforceable?
It depends heavily on where you are — some places barely enforce them, others do if they're reasonable in scope, geography, and time. Overbroad ones are often struck down, but you don't want to test that in court. Understand what you're signing.
Can I negotiate a non-compete?
Often yes — narrowing the scope, shortening the duration, or limiting the geography are all reasonable asks. It's easier to negotiate before you sign than to fight it later.
How do I check a non-compete quickly?
Look at scope, geography, duration, the definition of competitor, and any non-solicit. Or paste the contract into ContractAI to get these surfaced with a plain-English breakdown and risk score. A fast first read — not legal advice.
ContractAI provides an automated, plain-English summary to help you understand your own contract. It is not legal advice and is not a substitute for a lawyer. For high-stakes agreements, consult a qualified attorney.