The Tandem Parking Space Rule

I've been working on outsourcing contracts recently, and was reminded of an experience I had buying my first apartment.

We negotiated a very valuable second parking space (parking is at a premium in Dublin) - in a 'tandem' configuration, i.e. one very deep space which takes two cars. Once the solicitors were involved, we stressed the need to make sure we were allocated the tandem space. They assured us that it was in hand.

When they received the title, we asked about the tandem space - they confirmed that there was tandem parking space.

Before we came in to sign contracts, we asked them to double-chek about the tandem space, which they duly did.

When we arrived to sign the contract, they showed us the location of our single parking space. In dismay we asked about the tandem parking space - to which they showed us the note confirming that tandem cycles could be accommodated in the bike racks.

They must have thought we were quite obsessed about our tandem cycle - but neither they nor I caught the slight difference in our wording, or clarified what our odd request meant. And it's a lesson for us now - in constructing contracts, statement of work, business requirements or functional specifications. Be careful with your language, Clarify then Clarify again, If in doubt ask - actually ask anyway, even if you think there is no doubt!