What steps should a handyman take when a client gives conflicting instructions on a job?

Q: What steps should a handyman take when a client gives conflicting instructions on a job?

Direct answer: When instructions conflict, stop work, restate the options in writing, and get one decision-maker to approve the next step. Practical steps Freeze the moment: Pause the task that could become rework until direction is clarified. Put options on paper: Send a short message: option A vs option B with cost/time differences. Name the decider: Ask who has final authority and proceed only after that person confirms. Next step: Text a two-option summary and wait for a single written "Approved—do option ___."

Question

Accepted Answer

Direct answer: When instructions conflict, stop work, restate the options in writing, and get one decision-maker to approve the next step.

Practical steps

Freeze the moment: Pause the task that could become rework until direction is clarified.
Put options on paper: Send a short message: option A vs option B with cost/time differences.
Name the decider: Ask who has final authority and proceed only after that person confirms.

Next step: Text a two-option summary and wait for a single written "Approved—do option ___."