I tell clients when a request looks risky

When a request could cause trouble, I tell the client before starting work. I explain the risk, give options with their costs and leave the decision to them.

What does an unprompted message actually contain?

I restate the request, explain the risk, give two options with their costs, and leave the decision to the client. It takes me about half an hour and can change the work I was asked to do. Raising the risk early gives the client time to choose the cheaper option.

I do not publish client conversations, so this example describes how I write the message.

What can you actually check before hiring?

Ask for an example of a time the freelancer or agency advised a client to change the brief. Ask what the alternative cost and who made the decision.