NDAs are the contract people sign most casually — they look short, standard and harmless. They often aren't. A non-disclosure agreement can bind you for life, define “confidential” so broadly it covers what's already in your head, or carry a non-compete riding along inside it. An NDA review finds those terms before you sign.
What an NDA review checks
- Definition of “confidential information” — is it narrow and specific, or so broad it covers everything, including what you already knew?
- Carve-outs — standard exceptions for information that is public, already known to you, or independently developed should be present.
- Term / duration — how long the obligation lasts. Perpetual terms are common but a defined 2–5 years is more balanced for ordinary commercial information.
- One-way vs mutual — are both sides bound, or just you?
- Hidden non-compete / non-solicit — restrictions on who you can work with or hire, buried inside the NDA.
- Return or destruction — what you must do with materials when it ends.
- IP & residuals — who owns ideas discussed, and whether a “residuals” clause changes that.
- Remedies — injunctions, liquidated damages, and legal-cost clauses.
NDA review vs a lawyer vs reading it yourself
| Option | Cost | Speed | Catches risky clauses? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading it yourself | Free | Varies | Only what you recognise |
| BeforeYouSign | $2.99–$9.99 | 60 seconds | Yes — flags & explains each |
| Solicitor / attorney | $225–$1,500+ | Days | Yes — with formal advice |
See our breakdown of AI contract review vs a lawyer, or review a different document with our full contract review service.
How it works
- Upload your NDA (PDF or DOCX).
- Our AI reads every clause and flags the risky ones.
- You get a plain-English report in under 60 seconds.
Frequently asked questions
What does an NDA review check?
It reads every clause and flags the ones that carry risk: how broadly "confidential information" is defined, how long the obligation lasts, whether it is mutual or one-way, any non-solicitation or non-compete riders hidden inside it, what you must do with information when it ends, who owns ideas discussed, and the remedies the other side can pursue. BeforeYouSign explains each in plain English.
Should I sign an NDA without reading it?
No. NDAs look short and standard, but they routinely contain a perpetual confidentiality term, a definition of "confidential" so broad it covers your own knowledge, or a non-compete riding along inside the agreement. Once you sign, you are bound — reviewing first takes a minute.
How much does it cost to get an NDA reviewed?
A solicitor or attorney typically charges from around $225 to $1,500+. BeforeYouSign reviews your NDA for $2.99 (Quick Scan) or $9.99 (Full Analysis), with results in under 60 seconds.
What are the biggest red flags in an NDA?
The most common are: an overly broad definition of confidential information (with no carve-out for what you already know or what is public), a perpetual or very long term, a one-sided (one-way) structure when it should be mutual, a non-solicitation or non-compete clause buried inside, and aggressive remedies such as liquidated damages or a right to an injunction.
What is the difference between a one-way and a mutual NDA?
A one-way (unilateral) NDA binds only one party to keep information secret; a mutual NDA binds both. If you will also be sharing your own confidential information, a mutual NDA is usually fairer. A one-way NDA where you are the only one bound is worth questioning.
Can I get an NDA reviewed online without a lawyer?
Yes. An AI review flags the same risky clauses a lawyer looks for and explains them in plain English, instantly and cheaply. For a high-stakes deal, use the review to find the issues first, then take those specific clauses to a qualified lawyer.
How long does an NDA review take?
Under 60 seconds. Upload the document and the report is generated in real time.
Do you store my NDA?
No. It is analysed in real time and never stored, logged, or retained. Once you leave the results page the analysis is gone.
Colin Adan is the founder of BeforeYouSign, an AI tool that flags risky clauses in everyday contracts and explains them in plain English. BeforeYouSign is not a law firm and this page is general information, not legal advice — for advice on your own situation, speak to a qualified solicitor or attorney.
Disclaimer: This is educational content, not legal advice. Contract law varies by jurisdiction and individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified legal professional before making decisions based on this information.