How much money are you giving away every year simply because you aren't charging for work outside your original scope?
In this episode of the Interior Design Business Podcast, I tackle one of the biggest profit leaks in a design business: scope creep. It happens when a client asks you to take on additional work after the project begins, and instead of charging for it, you tell yourself, “It won't take me that long.”
Those extra hours add up quickly.
I walk through a common remodeling scenario where a client suddenly wants help with a fireplace that wasn't included in the original agreement. We explore why saying yes before discussing additional fees creates an awkward situation later, and why simply having an hourly clause in your contract isn't always enough.
You'll learn how to prepare for these requests before they happen, clearly define your scope of work, communicate additional costs without making the conversation uncomfortable, and quickly turn additional requests into paid work.
We also do the math: losing only a few billable hours each week can add up to around $10,000 a year in income left on the table.
Your clients asking for more isn't a problem. It's an opportunity for more business, as long as you capture it, communicate it, and get paid for it.
In this episode, we cover:
Why scope creep is one of the biggest profit leaks in a design business
Recognizing additional client requests as new business opportunities
Why designers frequently give away extra hours without realizing it
Defining a clear scope of work in your Letter of Agreement
Why unexpected hourly invoices can create client pushback
Preparing what to say when a client requests additional work
How to confidently communicate additional fees
Handling small additions versus major project expansions
Turning verbal requests into paid agreements quickly
How a few unpaid hours each week can cost you thousands every year
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