Direct answer
Read how “confidential information” is defined, what is excluded (public info, your preexisting IP, information you develop independently), how long secrecy lasts, whether obligations are mutual, any non-compete or non-solicit tucked in, residuals clauses, required return/destruction of materials, and governing law. Upload the NDA to Contract Checked for a plain-English risk report. Not legal advice.
Last reviewed November 2026
High-impact NDA clauses
Definition and exclusions
Overbroad definitions (“all information related to the company”) without standard exclusions are a common red flag.
Term
Perpetual confidentiality for ordinary commercial info is aggressive; many NDAs use 2–5 years for general secrets (trade secrets may be treated differently).
One-way vs mutual
If both sides share information, prefer mutual obligations.
Hidden non-competes
Some NDAs add non-solicit or non-compete language. In California, employment non-competes are generally void—but still flag them.
Residuals / personal knowledge
Clauses that let someone use remembered ideas—or that forbid using general skills—deserve a careful read.
How Contract Checked helps
Upload your document and get a plain-English report: risk ratings on specific clauses, protections that are missing, and the questions to ask before you sign. Then ask follow-up questions about your own document. You see the credit cost before anything runs.
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Frequently asked questions
Can Contract Checked review an NDA?
Yes. Use the NDA analyzer landing page or the homepage upload. You see the credit cost before it runs.
Is this legal advice?
No. Contract Checked gives general information and an AI reading of your document. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. For a dispute or a decision with a lot of money at stake, talk to a licensed attorney or a local tenant or worker organization.
Can Contract Checked review my document?
Yes. Upload a PDF, Word file, pasted text or a photo. Sign up free for starting credits; you see the credit cost before anything runs. The report is plain English and is not legal advice.