Additional services: Overview, definition, and example
What are additional services?
Additional services refer to tasks, deliverables, or support provided beyond the original scope of a contract or agreement. These services are typically requested by one party after the initial terms have been established and often require additional fees, resources, or time to complete.
For example, in a software development agreement, additional services might include custom features or ongoing technical support requested after the initial project is delivered.
Why are additional services important?
Additional services are important because they provide flexibility to address evolving needs that may arise during a project or relationship. For businesses, having a clear process for managing additional services ensures transparency, fair compensation, and alignment with client expectations.
Including provisions for additional services in agreements helps avoid disputes by outlining how such requests are handled, priced, and documented. It protects both parties by ensuring mutual agreement before additional work is undertaken.
Understanding additional services through an example
Imagine a marketing agency signs a contract to create a website for a client. After the project begins, the client requests social media strategy development, which is outside the original scope of work. The additional services clause allows the agency to provide the requested service under a separate fee structure agreed upon by both parties.
In another example, a building contractor completes a home renovation project. The homeowner requests an extra deck to be added, which was not part of the original contract. The additional services clause specifies that the contractor must provide a cost estimate, and the homeowner must approve it before the work begins.
An example of an additional services clause
Here’s how an additional services clause might look in a contract:
“The Service Provider may provide additional services outside the scope of this Agreement upon the Client’s written request. Such additional services shall be subject to a separate fee, which shall be agreed upon in writing prior to the commencement of the services. Any additional services not approved in writing shall not be deemed authorized under this Agreement.”
Conclusion
Additional services provide the flexibility to meet changing needs while ensuring that both parties agree on the scope, cost, and terms of the extra work. These provisions protect the interests of both parties and help maintain transparency and fairness in the relationship.
By including a well-drafted additional services clause in agreements, businesses can effectively manage client requests, avoid disputes, and ensure fair compensation for extra work performed.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.