What Is A Construction Change Order

Because most construction projects are carried out in tender and contract, the scope of work must be clearly defined before it begins. During the construction process, a variety of reasons can make plans change. A change order, a supplement to the existing contract, covers the cost and defines the procedure to suit the original planning.

Contracts

Construction contracts come in many different types and styles, but most construction projects require a contract of some sort. These contracts, like any other, define the responsibility that each contracting party has with the other (s). The scope of work, time and cost are established in this legal document. Because of the complexity of many of the construction projects, it is more convenient than the scope of work, or the details of what the project entails, is clearly defined and agreed before starting work.

Dear

Usually, a customer who want to make a construction project invites several general contractors and / or construction managers for tendering for the work. The bidding process for construction projects requires utmost care and attention to detail, because, once the contract has been awarded and signed, it becomes binding on both parties. Bids must be an accurate reflection of the actual construction costs, and in order to so, the scope of work must be clearly defined.

Types of change order

The most common types of change orders made during the construction process is a change in scope (when a customer decides to add something to the existing work), unforeseen conditions (when a builder is a problem that was not predictable) and errors by professionals and omissions (when a builder says that plans and designs prepared by an architect or engineer does not accurately reflect the actual conditions or are somehow wrong way).

Meaning

Because change orders only occur when there is a contract, they can be a real obstacle to the progress of the construction project. Although both sides have agreed in the original contract, they cannot agree on the necessary changes, which it has ruled that a change must be made, or how much will cost such changes. Some projects are carried out for months as the contract parties discuss these details. Change orders have the potential to be costly and difficult.

Expert view

Before construction begins, consider as far as possible, all potential obstacles to a construction project may face. Precise estimates of labor costs reflect these careful consideration. However, there are times when change orders cannot be avoided. When necessary, both parties must try to work together to solve the problem as quickly as possible and in a friendly manner. Much can be achieved in a spirit of compromise.