Scope creep clause template
A scope creep clause is the part of a contract that says what happens to work outside the agreed scope: it isn’t included, it’s quoted first, it starts only after written approval, and it may change the timeline. It sits right after the scope of work section.
Copy the clause
Pick the version that fits the contract. The standard version suits most projects; add the retainer terms for monthly plans.
Short
OUT-OF-SCOPE WORK Work not listed in the Scope of Work is out of scope. We will quote any out-of-scope request in writing before starting, and begin only after you approve the quote by email or signature. Approved out-of-scope work is billed at [$___/hour or the quoted fixed price] and may change the delivery date.
Standard
CHANGES AND OUT-OF-SCOPE WORK
1. Scope. The services are limited to the deliverables, quantities and limits set out in the Scope of Work ("Scope"). Anything not expressly listed there, including the items listed as Exclusions, is out of scope.
2. Requests. Either party may request a change to the Scope. Requests must be made in writing through [the agreed request channel].
3. Quotes. For each out-of-scope request, the Agency will provide a written quote stating the work, the price (fixed, or estimated hours at the rate below) and any effect on the schedule, usually within [2] business days.
4. Approval. Out-of-scope work starts only after the Client approves the quote in writing. Email approval from the Client's named approver is sufficient. Without approval, the Agency has no obligation to perform the work.
5. Rate. Unless quoted otherwise, out-of-scope work is billed at $[rate] per hour and invoiced [with the next monthly invoice / on completion].
6. Schedule. Approved changes may move delivery dates. The quote will state the new dates.
7. Limits. Revision rounds, hours or other limits beyond those stated in the Scope are treated as out-of-scope work under this clause.Retainer add-on
8. Monthly retainers. Each month includes the services and hours listed in the Scope. Requests that would exceed the monthly hours are, at the Client's choice, either quoted as out-of-scope work or scheduled into the following month. Unused hours [expire at the end of each month / roll over for one month only]. 9. Urgent requests. Requests the Client needs completed within [2] business days may carry a rush fee of [25–50]% of the quoted price, stated in the quote. 10. Record of changes. The Agency will keep a record of approved changes. Approved quotes form part of this Agreement.
This is a starting point, not legal advice. Have a lawyer review contract wording before you rely on it.
What every scope creep clause needs
Each line closes one of the usual gaps.
Scope by reference
Point to the scope of work and its exclusions instead of repeating them.
Requests in writing
One channel, so nothing is agreed in passing on a call.
A quote before work
Price and timing, in writing, for every out-of-scope request.
Written approval
Say who can approve and that email counts.
A default rate
So small extras can be priced without a negotiation.
Schedule impact
Approved changes can move dates; the quote says by how much.
How to use the clause
- 1
Place it after the scope
Clients read what’s included and what happens to everything else together.
- 2
Match the defined terms
Use the same names as your contract: “Scope of Work”, “Client”, “Agency”.
- 3
Fill in the rate and channel
Your out-of-scope rate and where requests should be sent.
- 4
Choose the approval method
Email from the named approver keeps small extras moving.
- 5
Explain it at kickoff
One sentence: “anything new gets a quick quote before we start”.
- 6
Apply it every time
A clause you enforce occasionally is a clause clients learn to ignore.
Creepless checks every request against your scope
Clients send requests through their own private link. Each one is checked against the plan you set and marked included, extra or needs review. Extras get a suggested price and a drafted reply, and the client approves the quote before work starts. Free for 2 clients, no card needed.
Scope creep clause, answered
More free templates: see all templates, or read what scope creep is.
Where does a scope creep clause go in a contract?
Right after the scope of work or deliverables section, so the client reads what’s included and what happens to everything else in the same place. It’s often titled “Changes” or “Out-of-scope work”.
Is a scope creep clause the same as a change order clause?
Mostly. A change order clause focuses on how a change is documented and signed. A scope creep clause also defines what counts as out of scope and sets the price and timeline rules. The standard version above does both.
Can I add a scope creep clause to a project that has already started?
Yes, through a short written amendment or at the next renewal. Explain it as making approvals faster and clearer for both sides.
Is email approval enough for out-of-scope work?
For most agency work, yes, if the contract says so and the approval comes from the named approver. Larger changes are better handled with a signed change order.
Will a scope creep clause put clients off?
Clients rarely object to “new work gets a quote first”. What damages relationships is surprise invoices, which the clause prevents.
Do I need a lawyer to review it?
It’s wise to. Contract law varies by country and state, and a lawyer can fit the clause to the rest of your agreement.
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