⚠️ 6 Web Development Gotchas to Watch For
- Code Ownership Until Paid: HIGH Many contracts retain code ownership until final payment. If disputes arise, you may lose access to your entire website or application
- Hosting Lock-In: HIGH Agencies often host on their proprietary platforms. Migration costs can exceed original development fees, and you may lose data if you leave
- Mandatory Maintenance Contracts: MEDIUM Warranty may require purchasing ongoing maintenance. Security updates or bug fixes might be withheld without active maintenance agreement
- Third-Party License Costs: MEDIUM Project quotes often exclude premium themes, plugins, or API costs. These recurring fees become your responsibility post-launch
- Scope Creep Billing: HIGH Feature changes trigger change orders. Simple requests like "make the logo bigger" may result in hourly billing at premium rates
- No Source Code Access: HIGH Some agencies only provide compiled code or locked CMS access. You can't hire another developer to make changes without the source
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