When the relationship strains.
THE COMMON DIFFICULTIES
Constant small requests outside what was agreed Expecting immediate response at any hour Blaming you for problems they caused Late payment Disputing what was agreed
THE UNDERLYING CAUSE
Usually unclear expectations at the start.
Most difficult clients became difficult because nobody said what was included.
WHAT TO DO
Restate the arrangement, in writing, politely.
"Happy to do that. It falls outside the maintenance plan, so it would be X. Shall I proceed?"
That sentence resolves most scope creep without confrontation.
WHEN TO CHARGE
For anything substantial outside the agreement. Consistently.
Doing work free once establishes that it is free.
WHEN TO END IT
A client who costs more time than they pay, disputes everything, or is abusive.
Ending a relationship is a legitimate business decision.
HOW TO END IT
Notice period, a full backup provided, help transferring to another host, and no hostility.
They will talk about you afterwards. Make it a neutral account rather than a bad one.
