Clause guide
Change Request Clause clause: meaning, risks, and what to negotiate
Sets the process for changing scope, deliverables, timing, or price after the contract starts.
What it means
Without a clear change request process, scope creep and pricing disputes can escalate quickly.
Common risks
- • Extra work may be requested without extra pay.
- • Project timelines may slip without formal adjustments.
- • Changes may be approved informally and later disputed.
What to check before signing
- • How are changes requested and approved?
- • Do scope changes affect fees and timelines?
- • Must both parties sign off before changes take effect?
Negotiation ideas
- • Require written approval for all material changes.
- • Tie approved changes to updated fees and deadlines.
- • Pause extra work until the change request is signed.
Example clause
“Any change to the Services, timeline, or fees must be documented in a written change request signed by both parties before implementation.”
Frequently asked questions
What is a change request clause?
It is a clause setting the process for changing project scope, timing, or price after the contract begins.
Related clauses
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