Scope creep
Definition: The uncontrolled expansion of a project’s scope after work has begun, driven by owner-initiated changes, “while we’re at it” additions, or discoveries that lead to opportunistic expansion beyond what was originally contracted. Approximately 38% of renovation projects experience at least one change order, typically adding 5–10% to the original contract value. Behavioral drivers include decision fatigue, optimism bias, and anchoring on new ideas encountered mid-project. Controlled through front-loaded design decisions, formal change-order governance, minimized allowances, and decision deadlines.