Writing a Scope of Work That Protects You

Most disputes between subs and GCs don't come from bad faith — they come from two people assuming different things were included in the job. A tight scope of work is the cheapest insurance you can buy against that.

Be specific about materials, quantities, and finish levels. "Install flooring" invites disagreement; "Install 1,200 sq ft of 5-inch engineered hardwood, GC-supplied material, including transitions and baseboard reinstall" doesn't.

List exclusions as clearly as inclusions. If demo, disposal, furniture moving, or permits aren't part of your price, say so in writing — otherwise there's a good chance it gets assumed into your scope by default.

Put change orders in writing before the extra work happens, not after. A simple one-line change order with a price and a signature protects both sides and avoids a conversation about back-pay for work that's already finished.

Get a signature before the crew shows up. A scope that's been reviewed and signed by the GC (or their PM) turns a source of arguments into a shared reference point everyone can point back to.