Change orders that do not cost you the relationship

Document before you work. The moment the scope moves, write it down. Ten minutes of paperwork beats an argument at invoicing.

Price the change separately. Show what changed and what it costs, not a new total that hides the delta.

Get a recorded acceptance on the new version. Version the estimate so it is clear which scope the customer approved.

Keep the timeline. Notes and photos on the job record are what make the conversation short if the change is ever questioned.