Even the most successful commission can face unplanned cost overruns, and public art programs account for this in various ways. Some programs set aside or contingency fund 5, 10, or 15% of a project’s budget in order to address unplanned expenses. Other programs agree to absorb up to 5% of cost overruns, but then hold the artist responsible for covering anything beyond that. In either case, be sure to make yourself familiar with the project contract so that you and all other participants are aware of your program’s procedure for handling added expenses.