Change order process clauses, explained
The mechanism for handling work that falls outside the agreed scope. Without it, out-of-scope requests get absorbed as 'small favors' that add up to weeks of unpaid work.
Market standard
A short written change-order process: new request, written estimate of added fee and timeline, client approval before work starts. The base schedule shifts to accommodate approved changes.
Red flags
- No change-order clause at all
- Changes 'within the spirit of the project' are free
- Provider must accommodate changes without adjusting price or deadline
- Client can unilaterally expand scope
Suggested wording
Any change to the scope, deliverables, or schedule must be documented in a written Change Order signed by both parties before the additional work begins. Each Change Order states the added fee and the adjusted timeline.
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Review my contractIs this normal in…
- Change order process in a design services agreement?
- Change order process in a software / web development agreement?
- Change order process in a marketing services agreement?
- Change order process in a video production agreement?
- Change order process in a consulting agreement?
- Change order process in a master services agreement (msa)?
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