What is a change order in construction, and why should you care?
On virtually every remodel, something changes mid-project. What separates a smooth project from a lawsuit is whether every change is documented — in writing, priced, and signed — before the work happens.
The definition
A change order is a written amendment to the original contract that adds, removes, or modifies scope, price, or schedule.
What a good change-order clause requires
Every change must be (1) in writing, (2) signed by both parties, (3) priced (labor + materials + markup), and (4) dated — all BEFORE the work starts.
Warning language to reject
Phrases like “change orders may be issued as needed” without a procedure are a trap. That gives the contractor unilateral discretion to bill you for changes you never approved.
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