ScopeLine

Free tool

Scope check: is this request in scope?

A client asks for "one more thing". Paste what you agreed and what they just asked for, and get an instant In scope, Out of scope or Unclear verdict with a reply you can copy. Runs in your browser, no signup.

Result

Out of scope

  • None of the request's key words appear in the agreed scope.
  • Not mentioned in the scope: online, shop, product.
  • Words like "also" usually signal work on top of the deal.
  • The request mentions a bigger number than anything in the scope.

Reply script

Hi [Client], happy to help with this. It's outside what we agreed for this project, so I'll treat it as a small change order: it's $[price] and adds [X] days. Reply "yes" and I'll start, or we can park it for a later phase.

A keyword check, not legal advice. Always read your contract.

How to use it

  1. Paste the scope you agreed with the client: the proposal, SOW or the line items from your contract.
  2. Paste the client's new request exactly as they wrote it.
  3. Read the verdict and the reasons: which words match your scope and which signal extra work.
  4. Copy the reply script, fill in the price and days, and send it before you start.

Got your number? Put it in writing with the free change order template, or send the client one of these scope creep email templates. For more on pricing extras, read how to charge for extra work.

Track every extra automatically

ScopeLine stores your original deal, logs each extra request against it, totals the unpaid scope creep and turns it into a change order the client can approve. Free for 3 active projects, no card.

Start free on ScopeLine

FAQ

How does the scope check work?
It compares the key words in the request with the key words in your agreed scope, then looks for signals like 'also', 'another', 'extra', 'redesign' or a bigger number than the scope mentions. High overlap with no extra signals reads as in scope; low overlap or strong extra signals reads as out of scope; anything in between is unclear.
Does it use AI or send my text anywhere?
No. It's simple rule-based matching that runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you paste is stored or sent to a server.
What should I do when the result is Unclear?
Ask one clarifying question before you start. The Unclear script does that politely and tells the client you'll send a price first if it turns out to be extra work.
Is a small fix to agreed work out of scope?
Usually not. Fixing a bug or typo in something you already delivered is part of the job. Adding something new, even if it's small, is scope creep, and you can price it or waive it as a named freebie.
Can I rely on this instead of my contract?
No. It's a quick first check to help you respond calmly. Your contract or proposal is what counts, so read it if the stakes are high.

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