How to Handle Revision Requests as a Freelancer
TL;DR:
- Set revision limits in your contract upfront (2-3 rounds works well for most projects)
- Charge for extra revisions beyond the agreed amount to prevent scope creep
- Always refer back to your contract when clients ask for additional changes
- Keep communication professional and timely throughout the revision process
- Confirm receipt of feedback and give clear timelines for implementing changes
The biggest mistake freelancers make is not setting boundaries around revisions from the start. Without clear limits, projects can spiral into endless rounds of tweaks that eat into your profit margins and timeline.
Setting Revision Boundaries in Your Contract
Your contract should spell out exactly how many revision rounds are included in your base price. Most freelancers find that 2-3 rounds work well for most projects. This gives clients enough opportunity to refine the work without leaving the door open for unlimited changes.
Include these details in your contract:
- The exact number of revision rounds included
- What counts as a revision (minor tweaks vs major changes)
- Your hourly rate for additional revisions
- Timeline for implementing each round of feedback
Be specific about what constitutes a revision. A client asking you to change three different elements might count as three separate revisions, depending on how you structure your terms.
When Clients Want More Changes
When a client requests revisions beyond your contract terms, handle it professionally but firmly:
Point them back to the contract. Remind them what was originally agreed and where you currently stand with revisions.
Explain the additional costs. Be upfront about your rates for extra work. Most reasonable clients understand that additional requests mean additional fees.
Document any new agreements. If they want to proceed with extra revisions, update your contract or create a written amendment. This protects both of you.
Don't feel guilty about charging for work beyond your original agreement. You've already delivered what was promised.
Managing the Revision Process
Good communication during revisions saves time and prevents frustration on both sides.
Acknowledge feedback quickly. Even if you can't implement changes immediately, let the client know you've received their comments.
Give realistic timelines. Tell them when they can expect to see the revised work. Factor in your other commitments and don't overpromise.
Ask clarifying questions. If feedback is vague or contradictory, ask for specifics before starting work. It's better to spend five minutes clarifying than an hour working on the wrong thing.
Summarise what you've understood. Before implementing major changes, send a quick summary of what you plan to do. This catches misunderstandings early.
Common Revision Pitfalls to Avoid
Don't agree to "quick tweaks" outside your revision structure. These have a habit of turning into bigger jobs.
Avoid making changes during phone calls without written confirmation. Always follow up with an email summarising what was agreed.
Don't implement feedback from multiple stakeholders without clear approval chains. Make sure you know who has final sign-off authority.
Resist the urge to over-deliver on revisions. Stick to what was requested rather than adding extra improvements you think might help.
FAQs
How many revision rounds should I include in my freelance contracts?
Most freelancers include 2-3 rounds. This gives clients enough opportunity to refine the work without opening the door to endless changes.
What should I do when clients request unlimited revisions?
Don't agree to unlimited revisions. Instead, offer a reasonable number of included rounds and charge your hourly rate for additional changes.
How do I handle revision requests that change the project scope?
Treat scope changes as separate from standard revisions. These usually require a new quote and contract amendment rather than just an additional revision fee.
Should I charge the same rate for small and large revisions?
Consider having different rates or minimum charges. Some freelancers charge a flat fee for minor tweaks and their hourly rate for substantial changes.
Jargon Buster
Scope creep: When a project expands beyond its original brief without additional payment or contract changes.
Revision rounds: The number of feedback and amendment cycles included in your base project price.
Contract amendment: A formal change to your original agreement that documents new terms or requirements.
Sign-off authority: The person who has final approval power over project decisions and changes.
Wrap-up
Setting clear revision boundaries protects your time and ensures projects stay profitable. The key is establishing these limits before work begins, not after problems arise. Most clients respect freelancers who are upfront about their processes and stick to professional boundaries.
Remember that saying no to unlimited revisions isn't difficult client behaviour. It's professional project management that benefits everyone involved.
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