Unapproved variations are one of the fastest ways to lose margin. Here’s how to protect yourself before the work starts.
The simple rule
No approval in writing = you’re funding the client’s variation
- Raise the variation as soon as scope changes
- Provide a rough cost/rate (even provisional)
- Get written approval (email is fine) before starting
- Track status weekly: Raised → Submitted → Approved → Claimed → Paid