What Goes Into a Clear Change-Order Package
A change order that explains what changed, why, and what it costs is easier to review. These are the pieces worth including.
4 min read
Describe the change plainly
Start with a short description of what changed compared with the original scope, and where. Reference the drawing revision, RFI, direction, or condition that caused it.
Show the evidence
Attach the photos, drawing excerpts, emails, and field notes that support the change. Reviewers move faster when they do not have to ask for backup.
Break down the cost
List labor, material, equipment, and any subcontract costs separately, then apply markup as a visible line rather than hiding it in unit prices.
Using consistent company rates and assemblies makes your pricing easier to defend from one change order to the next.
Include schedule impact and track the response
If the change affects the schedule, say so and by how much. After submission, keep track of who has it, when it was sent, and whether it was approved, rejected, or revised.
