How do I handle scope creep on a job?
Short answer
Stop work. Quote the change in writing. Get a yes before you continue.
The rule
Nothing extra gets done without a written change order, even a one-line text. 'New thing is $X, adds 2 days. Reply YES to approve.' Saves the relationship and the invoice.
Why owners skip it
They feel awkward asking. Then they feel furious at the end when the customer disputes the bill. The awkward 60 seconds is way cheaper than the awkward week of collections.
Ask your version of this question
This is one business owner-tested take. Your shop size, trade, and team change the answer. Ask the exact version inside Ask a Shop Owner and get a response grounded in how owners like you actually handled it.