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# Scope of Work: Defining Exactly What Your Project Includes

**Category:** Estimating & Business · **Complexity:** Simple · **Also known as:** SOW, job description, work specification

## Definition

A scope of work is a written document defining exactly what work will be performed, what materials will be used, what is excluded, and what the client receives upon completion.

## Common Questions

### What should be included?

Specific rooms/areas, tasks, materials, exclusions, timeline, and payment terms.

### What if extra work is needed beyond the scope?

It requires a formal change order before proceeding.

## Real-World Example

A homeowner hires CRM Services to repaint two rooms — the scope specifies which rooms, coats, paint brand, and explicitly states trim is not included.

## Why It Matters

Scope of work documents are essential for every client type.

## Related Terms

- [Change Order](https://www.crmsvc.com/glossary/change-order.md): A change order is a formal written document that modifies the original scope, cost, or timeline of a construction project.
- [Contract Types: T&M vs Fixed Price](https://www.crmsvc.com/glossary/contract-types-tm-vs-fixed-price.md): Time and materials (T&M) charges based on actual hours and materials used.
- [Job Costing](https://www.crmsvc.com/glossary/job-costing.md): Job costing tracks all expenses for a specific project — labor, materials, subs, and overhead — to determine actual profit or loss and improve future pricing.
- [Demolition (Interior)](https://www.crmsvc.com/glossary/interior-demolition.md): Interior demolition is the controlled removal of existing materials, fixtures, and structural components inside a building to prepare for renovation.
- [Change Order (Business)](https://www.crmsvc.com/glossary/change-order-business.md): A change order is a written amendment to the original contract documenting changes to scope, materials, timeline, or price.
- [Warranty and Callback Policy](https://www.crmsvc.com/glossary/warranty-callback-policy.md): A warranty is a promise that work will remain defect-free for a defined period.

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*CRM Services, LLC — Licensed, bonded & insured home remodeling and repair contractor in Vancouver, WA (WA license CC CRMSESL844MK). Serving Clark County and SW Washington within 50 miles. 5.0★ from 41+ Google reviews, A+ BBB. Call (503) 898-0276, email quotes@crmsvc.com, or request a free estimate at https://www.crmsvc.com/#contact*