Most disputes on interior works come from the same place: something that was assumed, left out or not yet known. This guide shows how scope, assumptions, exclusions and unknown conditions can be kept visible from the start.
Confirmed work, provisional items and client decisions
A clear scope separates three things: work that is confirmed and priced, provisional items whose quantity or price is not yet fixed, and decisions that still belong to the client. Mixing them is how a price quietly grows.
What is an assumption and what is an exclusion?
An assumption states what the price relies on, for example that the existing ceiling can be reused. An exclusion states what is not included, for example items supplied by the client. Writing both down turns hidden risk into an agreed boundary.
What happens if hidden damage is found?
- Stop and record what was found, with photographs where permitted.
- Inform the client in writing and explain the likely options.
- State the effect on cost and programme as far as it can be known.
- Proceed only after the client approves the chosen option.
Keeping a simple risk list
A short list of known risks, such as access limits, long-lead items and unverified conditions, with an owner and a next step for each, is more useful than a long document nobody reads.
Questions clients ask
How are cost and programme impacts communicated?
In writing, as soon as the issue is understood, with the reason, the options and the effect of each.
Can every unknown be priced in advance?
No. Some conditions only appear once surfaces are opened, which is why unknowns are listed and handled through an agreed change process.
How SADEED handles scope and risk
SADEED lists assumptions, exclusions and unknowns in the proposal, and nothing outside the agreed scope proceeds without written approval.
Want a scope that states its assumptions clearly?
Related guides
- How SADEED Approaches a Commercial Property Problem: From Site Assessment to Solution
- How Variation Orders Should Be Managed in Fit-Out and Renovation Projects
- Planning Commercial Renovation Without Losing Control of Scope and Budget
- Design & Build programme
- Request a site visit
Last reviewed: October 2026. This guide is general information; requirements vary by property, scope and authority.