A client in Dayton kept asking for 'just one more quick thing' on a flat rate job

I was finishing a furnace install I quoted at $2,800 flat. After the main work was done, he asked me to look at his thermostat in another room, then his bathroom vent fan. I mean, it was small stuff, but it added an extra hour. When I gave him the final bill, he got upset it wasn't lower since the 'extra' tasks were 'simple'. Now I make sure the written scope is super clear before I turn a wrench. Anyone else get nickel-and-dimed on a flat rate?

3 comments

3 Comments

tarar385d ago

Wait, doesn't a flat rate cover the job, not the clock? I agree with @the_leo that a clear scope is key, but the price is for the finished install, not hourly. Those extra tasks are new work, so they should always mean a change order, even if they seem small.

the_hayden5d ago

Absolutely! I've learned the hard way that "quick look" is a trap word. My scope sheets now list what's NOT included, like "thermostat checks in other rooms" or "vent fan inspections outside the installed unit's zone". It sounds picky, but it gives you a clear line to say, "That's a separate service call, I can write up a quote for it." Saves so many headaches.

the_leo5d ago

Ugh, that's the worst. A clear scope is the only way to protect yourself from that. Some clients will always push for free work if you let them.