Trades & Field Service

    Scope creep

    Gradual expansion of project work beyond the original scope without compensation.

    Definition

    The #1 reason small jobs lose money. Defeat with a tight written scope, signed change orders for every addition, and a 'while you're here' policy that quotes new work on the spot.

    Related terms

    Scope of work

    The written description of exactly what work is included in a job.

    Change order

    A signed addendum modifying the price, scope, or schedule of an existing job.