Scope of work
A scope of work is the part of a contract or proposal that describes exactly what work will be done, with what materials, to what standard, and what's left out.
Updated October 13, 2026 · 1 min read
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What to include
- The work itself, in specific terms: areas, quantities and the steps involved.
- Materials and products, including brands or grades where it matters.
- Exclusions: what's not included, like permits, haul-away or repairs to hidden damage.
- Milestones and the schedule.
- What "done" looks like: cleanup, inspection, a walkthrough or sign-off.
Why it matters
Most job disputes are really scope disputes: one side thought something was included and the other didn't. A clear scope makes the price defensible and makes any extra work obvious, which is when you write a change order. Customers sign the scope along with the contract, so put it where it can't be missed.
In SignMaster, add an Initials field next to the scope and exclusions so the customer acknowledges them, then send or sign in person.
Questions? Answers.
Is a scope of work the same as a statement of work?
They're close. "Statement of work" is common in professional services and government contracts and often covers deliverables, timelines and payment too. A scope of work focuses on the work itself.