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.