c/client-red-flags

Spent $200 on a background check for a new customer and it paid off big time

They looked fine on paper, but the check showed a history of lawsuits for non-payment. Dodged a bullet for sure. Has anyone else used a specific service they'd recommend?

Rant: A potential client in Phoenix asked for a 'ballpark' quote over the phone, then got mad when the written estimate was $300 higher.

My buddy who runs a small plumbing shop said he's started adding a 10% 'verbal quote buffer' to every rough number he gives out because people ALWAYS hear the lowest possible figure and ignore the caveats, which made me realize I need a better system before I even pick up the phone.

A potential customer told me 'I don't need a contract, my word is my bond' when I sent over the paperwork. Is this a major red flag?

I'm painting a kitchen and the client keeps tossing in new tasks

We settled on a price for just the walls. Now they want the ceiling and cabinets done too, without discussing more money. Every time I bring up extra costs, they dodge the conversation. Should I stop work until we have a new agreement?

I ate the cost when they added tasks after we shook hands

We agreed on a set list of tasks for a flat fee, but after starting, they asked for extra work. I did it to keep them happy, but they didn't pay more. How do you set limits on project changes?

A client's endless revision requests before even starting the job

That just means they don't know what they want.

Networking meetup led to a vague job offer. Sketchy from the start.

Guy asked for graphic work but dodged every budget question. Talked about 'trust' and 'future collabs'. Noped out fast.

Free upfront work requests: red flag or just clients being careful?

I've had new clients ask for free samples right away. Some folks say it's a smart way to judge quality, but I feel it's a hint they might not pay later. Do you think free work asks are a bad sign or no big deal?

TIL a client avoiding signatures is a red flag

We settled on a cost verbally, but they denied it later. Now I always get a signed agreement before starting, lmao.

Just realized if they argue against every sustainable choice, get paid upfront.

Fighting eco options means they'll fight the invoice too.

Vent: A client's 'small favor' that ate a week of my time

They asked me to check one typo on their homepage. I figured it was quick, so I said sure without a contract. After I got access, they casually mentioned a few other 'tiny' errors. Then it was broken images, then formatting issues on three other pages. Before I knew it, I had redone half their site structure. I sent a bill for the actual hours, and they acted shocked, saying it was just a friendly fix. Now my follow-up emails get one-word replies, if any. Their casual attitude about the scope was the big red flag I missed.

Had a client seriously ask me to design a logo for their pet rock

They said payment would come after the rock 'sold'. I noped out of that deal.