Definition
A change order is a written amendment to a construction contract that changes the scope, price, or schedule after the contract is signed.
Change Order, Explained
Projects change. An owner picks a different tile, decides to move a wall, or adds a room. Opening walls can reveal rotted framing, old wiring, or plumbing that has to be replaced. Each of these changes the work, so it changes the contract.
A change order records exactly what is changing, what it costs (or saves), and how it affects the schedule. Both sides sign it before the extra work starts.
Change orders are normal. What causes disputes is extra work done on a verbal "go ahead" and billed later with no agreed price.
Why It Matters for Your Project
Insisting on signed change orders keeps the final bill predictable. You always know the current contract price, and nothing gets added without your approval in writing.
What to Watch For
- Never approve extra work verbally; ask for a written change order with the price first.
- Check whether the change affects the completion date.
- Keep a running total of approved change orders against the original contract.
- A detailed, line-item bid up front means fewer change orders later.