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A change-control clause requires added or altered work to be described, priced, scheduled, and approved in writing before it begins.
Direct answer
A change-control clause requires added or altered work to be described, priced, scheduled, and approved in writing before it begins.
Definition: Change control is the agreed process for evaluating and authorizing work that differs from the approved scope.
Start with the project fact: what was approved, what changed, and who can authorize the next step. Customize the wording so it matches your agreement and normal client channel.
State any fee and schedule impact together. Do not begin changed work until the client gives written approval and the current project plan reflects the decision.
Use this as a practical starting point. Replace every placeholder with a fact from the approved project.
Requests that change the Services, Deliverables, assumptions, or schedule require a written change order stating the added fee and timing impact. Contractor will begin changed work only after Client approval.
Use it before ambiguity turns into unplanned work. For contract language, include it before kickoff; for a client script, send it as soon as a request changes the approved plan.
No. This is practical business wording, not legal advice. Adapt it to your agreement and ask a qualified lawyer about legal requirements in your jurisdiction.
A change process is what turns scope creep into billable, approved work. This pillar covers documenting requests, pricing them, getting approval, and controlling change over the life of a project.
Free templateA ready-to-customize freelance change order form with practical guidance for using it professionally and keeping the client relationship intact.
Client script libraryConnect the added fee to the changed work and its impact, then ask for explicit approval before starting.
Educational information only; not legal advice. Review contract language for your jurisdiction and circumstances.
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