Send a project delay notice

Clients can handle a delay. They struggle with finding out late or hearing nothing. Tell them early, give a new date you trust and say what changes.

Last reviewed October 14, 2026

Tell them as soon as you know

Send the notice when the slip is likely, not when it is certain. Early news gives the client time to adapt.

Give the real reason without drama or blame. Long excuses read as weakness.

Offer a date with some margin. A second missed date does more damage than the first.

List which deliverables move and which stay on time, so the client can plan around it.

A partial delivery, a preview or a call can keep trust while the work finishes.

Send a short update when the new date is met, and note what caused the slip for next time.

Yes, briefly and sincerely, then move on to the plan.

Only if your agreement says so or the delay is serious. Decide before the client asks.

At a fixed rhythm the client can rely on, even if the update is that nothing changed.

Written by Flatdesk, a help desk for small support teams at one flat price per agent. Try it free for 14 days, no card.