Everybody who embarks on a construction project tries to do all the planning they can to avoid change orders during construction. That is always the goal, but sometimes it doesn’t work out that way.
So what is a change order? A change order is simply a change in the scope of the work of the project. It occurs when the Owner changes direction regarding a portion of the project.
Let’s face it; we are a culture of people that thrive on having the latest and greatest things. When something new is introduced to the construction industry, and if the Owner wants that instead of what he is supposed to be getting, he has the right to change his mind. Or, if the Owner realized they missed something, which can happen, they make the correction before the project is completed. A change order will be issued to all parties involved so they know to change direction on the project. Without a change order, the builder does not have the right to divert from the construction documents.
Of course, change orders are more costly during the construction phase of the project because by that time many decisions have been made regarding the project and purchases finalized and sometimes products even shipped. The best time to change one’s mind is when you are in the design phase. It is much easier to move a wall on paper than after it is constructed.
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