Kristen,

Let's not forget. The path to success is based on pleasing the client. Don't try to win this in court. You can simply say in your contract:

"Any change from this proposal will have to be separatly approved by you."

Then at an early time in the process (every customer changes things), introduce the change order, estimate the change in the overall cost to the client (could be a lessening of the overall bill or it could be an increase), and get them in the habit of signing for changes.

Guys, this is not rocket science. You do not need to spend thousands of dollars on an attorney. A good attorney will tell you that good practice is worth a million dollars in legal fees. Don't set a precedent by allowing "a couple of gimmie trips" to be included.

Any good contractor sets accurate estimates, works to complete the job satisfactorily, and bills the client for any changes. That is life...

Don't spend excessively on having your contracts rewritten. Be obsessive about pleasing your clients and being completely fair with them.

Remember, you are worth spending money on! Your abilities and skills are valuable. Stomp out the idea that any amount of money spent entitles a client to freebies. Money spent = Great Performance and/or Great Ease of Operation. It does not equal "gimmie trips"!!!

Best Regards,

-Eric

Eric Johnson
800-247-7001
www.hometheaterpro.com