Change Orders & Claims

Extra work without a signed change order is the #1 way contractors lose money.

Do it right

• Get it in writing before you perform the extra work whenever possible — a signed change order adjusts price and time.
• Price changes fully: labor, material, equipment, overhead and profit, and any schedule impact.
• Watch for constructive changes — the owner directs something different through an RFI answer or field instruction without calling it a change. You may still be owed, but only if you gave notice.

Claims and notice

• Contracts impose strict notice requirements (e.g., "notify in writing within 7 days") — miss the deadline and you can waive the claim, even a valid one.
• Document with a daily log, photos, RFIs, and a paper trail. Claims are won or lost on documentation.
• Categories: directed changes, constructive changes, differing site conditions, delay/acceleration.

Takeaway: No signed change order, no money — price changes fully (incl. overhead/profit and time), give written notice within the contract deadline, and document everything; claims live or die on the paper trail.

Educational overview — not legal advice. Construction law varies by state and by contract; consult a licensed construction attorney for your situation.