Change orders are a common part of any construction project, but they can feel confusing or frustrating if you don’t know what to expect. A change order is a formal update to your original contract that adjusts the work, cost, or timeline. When managed well, change orders help keep your project on track and avoid surprises.
Working closely with your general contractor and understanding how to handle these changes can save you time and money. In this guide, you’ll learn easy steps to navigate change orders effectively and build a strong, clear partnership with your contractor.
What Are Change Orders and Why Do They Matter?
When you’re working on a construction project, understanding what change orders are and why they matter is super important. A change order is a written agreement that modifies the original contract between you and your contractor. These changes can impact the scope of work, the budget, or the project timeline.
A reliable general contractor Brooklyn NY homeowners trust will always ensure change orders are clearly documented and agreed upon to avoid confusion down the line.
What Exactly Is a Change Order?
Think of a change order as an official update to the work plan. Maybe you decide to add a new window, switch the type of flooring, or need extra work that wasn’t in the original contract. Instead of guessing or just doing the extra work, the contractor creates a change order to clearly explain what’s changing. This helps keep everything fair and clear for both sides.
Why Do Change Orders Happen?
Change orders happen for lots of reasons. Sometimes, the owner (that’s you) might change their mind about something after the project has started. Other times, unexpected problems pop up—like discovering a plumbing issue behind a wall—that need fixing.
Or maybe the contractor finds that the original plans missed some details. Whatever the reason, change orders keep these changes official and recorded.
Why Change Orders Are Important
Change orders matter because they protect both you and the contractor. Without a clear change order, it’s easy for costs to sneak up or work to get done that you didn’t agree on. They help avoid confusion and keep the project on track. When you handle change orders carefully, you reduce the chance of surprises and disagreements, making the whole process smoother.
Communicating Clearly with Your General Contractor
Clear communication with your contractor is essential when dealing with change orders. Open and honest conversations help ensure everyone stays on the same page and prevents costly misunderstandings. Experienced general contractors Manhattan NY residents rely on know that strong communication can save time, money, and unnecessary stress throughout the project.
Why Clear Communication Matters
Change orders often come up because something wasn’t fully understood or planned from the start. By talking clearly with your contractor, you can catch these issues early. It means fewer surprises and smoother progress. When both sides understand exactly what’s expected, the project runs better.
How to Communicate Effectively
Start by asking questions whenever something isn’t clear. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re unsure about costs, timing, or the details of the work. Make sure to write down important conversations or decisions so you have a record. This helps avoid confusion later.
Setting Expectations Early
Before your project begins, talk about how you will handle change orders if they come up. Agree on how changes will be discussed and approved. This way, everyone knows the process, and there won’t be surprises when changes happen. It builds trust and helps your project stay on track.
Keep the Conversation Going
Communication isn’t just one talk. Keep checking in with your contractor regularly. This keeps you updated and helps catch any issues early. The better you communicate, the easier it will be to navigate change orders and finish your project successfully.
Clear, honest communication with your general contractor makes all the difference when managing change orders. It helps keep your project smooth and stress-free.
How to Review and Approve Change Orders
Knowing how to review and approve change orders is a crucial step in managing your construction project smoothly. Change orders can affect your budget and timeline, so it’s important to understand what you’re agreeing to before you give the green light.
What to Look for in a Change Order
When you receive a change order, start by carefully reading the details. It should clearly explain what work is changing, how much extra it will cost, and if the project timeline will be affected. Make sure the description matches what you discussed with your contractor. If anything is unclear, ask for clarification before moving forward.
Checking the Costs and Timeline
Change orders often come with extra costs or added days to the schedule. Compare the new cost with your original budget to see how much more you will be paying. Also, check if the timeline change fits with your plans. Knowing this helps you decide if the change is worth it or if you need to negotiate.
Don’t Rush Your Approval
It’s easy to feel pressured to approve change orders quickly so the work can continue. But take your time to review everything carefully. Rushing might lead to surprises later. If you need, ask your contractor to explain the details again or provide more information.
How to Approve a Change Order
Once you’re sure about the change, costs, and timeline, approve the change order in writing. This keeps everything official and protects both you and the contractor. Always keep a copy for your records so you can track all the changes throughout the project.
Reviewing and approving change orders carefully helps you stay in control and avoid unexpected problems during your construction project.
Tips for Avoiding Disputes and Keeping Your Project on Track
When working with a general contractor, avoiding disputes is key to finishing your project smoothly. Change orders can sometimes cause tension if not handled right. Knowing a few simple tips can help you keep the project on track and avoid headaches.
Stay Organized with Paperwork
One of the best ways to prevent disagreements is to keep all change order documents in one place. Save every written agreement, invoice, and message about changes. This makes it easy to check what was agreed upon if any questions come up later.
Communicate Calmly and Clearly
If a problem arises, stay calm and talk it out with your contractor. Getting upset won’t help. Instead, explain your concerns clearly and listen to their side. Working together usually leads to quicker and better solutions.
Use a Change Order Log
A change order log is a simple list or spreadsheet where you record every change, its cost, and how it affects the timeline. This helps both you and your contractor see the project’s progress and any adjustments made along the way.
Set Clear Expectations from the Start
Before the work begins, agree on how you will handle changes and what the process will be for approving them. Knowing this upfront keeps everyone prepared and reduces surprises.
By staying organized, communicating well, and planning ahead, you can avoid disputes and keep your construction project moving smoothly. These tips help you work better with your contractor and finish on time and on budget.
Conclusion
Mastering how to navigate change orders with your general contractor effectively can save you headaches and money. Clear communication, careful review, and staying organized help keep your project smooth and on budget. With these simple tips, you’ll handle change orders like a pro and enjoy stress-free construction.