How to handle a customer who wants to direct the work
Stay friendly, stay in scope and put changes in writing.
- Listen first. Ask what they are worried about before explaining your method.
- Explain the why. Short, plain reasons for how you do the work often settle it.
- Separate safety from preference. If a request is unsafe or against code, decline politely and say why.
- Treat changes as change orders. Anything outside the quote is priced and approved before work.
- Offer a regular update. A daily check-in call often replaces hovering.
Common questions
What if they keep interfering?
Pause, restate the agreed scope and ask to follow the plan. If it continues, talk to your attorney before ending the job.
Can I refuse a request?
Yes when it is unsafe, unlawful or outside your scope. Say so calmly and offer an alternative.
See also the contractor guides and free tools.
General information, not legal or financial advice. Verify with your attorney or accountant.
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