Put changed work in writing
Describe the changed work, price, schedule effect, and required approval. Use a change order whenever scope, materials, quantities, site conditions, or selections change.
Add the project, date, change number, location, and supporting details. State assumptions and exclusions that affect the price.
Agree before the crew starts
Describe and price the change, then state its schedule effect. Get the written approval your contract requires before starting work.
Keep pending requests apart from approved work. Put the decision with the job Documents.
Update Budget and Schedule
Update the cost code or Budget line after approval. Link needed materials to Schedule and review the order-by date.
Add dates, assignments, or dependencies when the sequence changes. Daily logs, RFIs, and photos explain the field details.
Keep a numbered history
Use consecutive numbers and keep each approved change with its supporting files. Repeat the number in related job discussions and Budget notes.
Your team can see which direction applies. Keep signed changes with the Documents the client can read.
Willow Creek example
In a Willow Creek remodel, the homeowner chooses a different cabinet layout after signing. The contractor records the revised work, added or credited cost, and ordering effect. After written approval, the contractor updates Budget and Schedule.
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Frequently asked questions
What should a construction change order include?
Open Change Orders, describe the revised scope, add the price and schedule effect, and attach the supporting details. Share it with the client for approval.
Should work start before a change order is approved?
Check the contract, write the scope, price, and schedule effect, then get the required written approval before you start the work.