Scope Creep: The Clauses That Let Clients Demand Unlimited Revisions

What this clause actually says

Scope-creep clauses use vague language — "as needed," "reasonable request," "additional work" — that lets the client expand the engagement without renegotiating your fee.

Why it matters to you

Every "small tweak" quietly erases your margin. Without a defined scope and revision cap, a fixed-fee gig can become an open-ended obligation.

How to fix it before you sign

Define deliverables and revision rounds up front. Require any out-of-scope work to go through a written change order with its own fee.

Ctrl+F for these phrases

  • →additional work
  • →change order
  • →scope
  • →as needed
  • →reasonable request

Quick answers

How do I stop scope creep before signing?

Spell out the deliverable, the number of revision rounds, and a written change-order process for anything outside scope. A contract that is silent on scope is an open invitation to unlimited revisions.