The Truth About Change Orders: What Contractors Wish You Knew

Change orders can turn a smooth home remodel into a headache you didn't see coming. You might think your project is set in stone until unexpected costs and delays show up. This post will break down how change orders work and help you avoid surprises that can derail your renovation.

Understanding Change Orders

What Is a Change Order?

A change order is a formal document that modifies your original contract with your contractor. It details changes to the scope of work, materials, timeline, or costs after your project has started. Think of your initial contract as a roadmap. When you decide to take a detour or add a stop along the way, a change order makes it official.

Change orders happen for many reasons. Maybe you saw a beautiful tile you want instead of the one you picked initially. Perhaps removing a wall revealed electrical issues that need fixing. Or you might decide halfway through that you want to extend your kitchen island by two feet.

Whatever the reason, change orders protect both you and your contractor by documenting exactly what's changing and how it affects the project.

Why Change Orders Matter

For homeowners, change orders might seem like unnecessary paperwork. But they serve important purposes:

1. They create clear communication between you and your contractor

2. They provide written proof of what you've agreed to

3. They update your contract to reflect new work

4. They help prevent disputes about what was included in the price

5. They give you a chance to approve or decline additional costs before work begins

   
   

Without proper change orders, you might face unexpected bills, delays, or even legal issues down the road.

Common Types of Change Orders

Owner-Requested Changes

These are changes you initiate because you've changed your mind or want to add something to the project. Examples include:

• Upgrading materials (like choosing higher-end countertops)

• Adding features (like built-in bookshelves or extra lighting)

• Changing design elements (like cabinet styles or paint colors)

• Expanding the scope (like deciding to renovate an additional room)

  
  

While these changes are your choice, they almost always impact both cost and timeline.

Unforeseen Condition Changes

These changes become necessary when contractors discover issues that weren't apparent before work began. Common examples include:

• Finding water damage behind walls

• Discovering outdated wiring that doesn't meet code

• Uncovering structural problems that need addressing

• Identifying asbestos, lead paint, or other hazardous materials

  
  

These surprises are nobody's fault but must be addressed for safety, code compliance, and project success.

Building Code Compliance Changes

Sometimes changes are required to meet local building codes. Your contractor might need to:

• Update plumbing or electrical systems

• Add or modify structural supports

• Install additional safety features

• Make adjustments for accessibility requirements

  
  

These changes aren't optional—they're mandatory for your project to pass inspection.

The Real Cost of Change Orders

Financial Impact

Change orders almost always cost money. Here's why:

1. New or upgraded materials come with higher prices

2. Additional labor hours are required

3. Ordering special materials may include rush fees

4. Changes often make previously completed work obsolete

5. Project extensions increase overhead costs

   
   

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that small changes can have big price tags. Moving a sink just a few feet might require rerouting plumbing, adjusting cabinetry, and redoing countertops—all adding significant costs.

Timeline Extensions

Beyond money, change orders typically extend your project timeline:

• New materials may have long lead times

• Work sequences get disrupted

• Subcontractors must be rescheduled

• Inspections may need to be repeated

• Crews might need to redo completed work

  
  

What seems like a simple change could add days or even weeks to your renovation schedule.

How the Change Order Process Works

Step 1: Identifying the Change

The process begins when someone identifies a needed or wanted change. This might come from:

• You requesting something different

• Your contractor finding an unexpected issue

• An inspector requiring a modification

  
  

At this point, your contractor should pause work in the affected area until the change is properly documented and approved.

Step 2: Documenting and Pricing

Next, your contractor will:

• Write up the proposed changes in detail

• Calculate the cost implications

• Estimate how it will affect the timeline

• Present this information in a formal change order document

  
  

Good contractors provide clear breakdowns of labor, materials, and any other costs associated with the change.

Step 3: Review and Approval

You'll then have the opportunity to:

• Review the change order thoroughly

• Ask questions about anything that's unclear

• Request modifications to the scope or approach

• Make an informed decision about proceeding

  
  

Only after you sign the change order should work on the change begin.

Step 4: Implementation and Documentation

Once approved:

• The change becomes part of your contract

• Work proceeds according to the new specifications

• Your project timeline and budget are updated

• The change order is kept with project documentation

  
  

This paper trail protects everyone and keeps your project on track.

How to Minimize Change Orders

Plan Thoroughly Before Starting

The best way to avoid change orders is thorough planning:

• Work with an architect or designer to create detailed plans

• Choose all materials and fixtures before construction begins

• Visit showrooms to see actual products, not just pictures

• Consider how the space will function for your specific needs

• Think through the project from multiple angles

  
  

Taking extra time in the planning phase saves money and headaches later.

Build in Contingencies

Smart homeowners and contractors build buffers into their plans:

• Budget an extra 10-20% for unexpected costs

• Allow flexibility in the timeline for potential delays

• Select backup materials in case first choices become unavailable

• Discuss potential problem areas before work begins

  
  

These contingencies make it easier to handle surprises without stress.

Communicate Clearly and Often

Regular communication prevents many change orders:

• Schedule weekly check-ins with your contractor

• Ask questions when something isn't clear

• Voice concerns early rather than letting them build up

• Be available to make decisions quickly when needed

  
  

Many change orders result from miscommunication that could have been avoided.

Work With Experienced Professionals

Hiring the right team makes a huge difference:

• Choose contractors with solid references and reviews

• Look for professionals who have handled similar projects

• Check credentials and licensing carefully

• Ask about their change order policies before signing

  
  

Experienced professionals anticipate problems before they happen and guide you through decisions that might affect your project.

Red Flags to Watch For

Vague Initial Contracts

Be wary if your initial contract lacks detail. It should clearly specify:

• Exact materials with brand names and model numbers

• Detailed scope of work with specific measurements

• Clear payment schedule

• Procedures for handling changes

  
  

Vague contracts leave room for misunderstandings that lead to change orders.

Frequent "Discoveries"

While some surprises are legitimate, be cautious if your contractor constantly "finds" issues that require additional money. This could indicate:

• Poor initial assessment

• Intentional underbidding to win the job

• Lack of experience with similar projects

  
  

A pattern of unexpected findings deserves scrutiny.

Pressure to Decide Quickly

Quality contractors give you time to consider change orders carefully. Be cautious if you feel rushed to approve changes without proper explanation or time to think.

Undocumented Changes

If work changes but you never see or sign a formal change order, speak up immediately. Verbal agreements about changes are recipes for disputes later.

Making the Most of Necessary Changes

Finding Opportunities in Changes

Sometimes changes create unexpected benefits:

• Discovering issues early prevents bigger problems later

• Modifications can improve functionality beyond your original plan

• Changes might allow for incorporating new technology or features

• Addressing structural issues increases your home's long-term value

  
  

With the right perspective, some changes can actually improve your final result.

Negotiating Smart Solutions

When changes become necessary, work with your contractor to find cost-effective approaches:

• Ask about alternative materials that might be less expensive

• Consider phasing certain work to spread out costs

• Explore whether some planned features could be simplified to offset new expenses

• Request multiple options at different price points

  
  

Good contractors will help you balance budget constraints with project needs.

Final Thoughts: Creating a Positive Remodeling Experience

Remodeling your home should be exciting, not stressful. Understanding change orders helps you navigate the process with confidence. Remember:

• Change orders are normal parts of renovation projects

• Clear communication prevents many problems

• Detailed planning reduces the need for changes

• Written documentation protects everyone involved

• Flexibility makes the process more enjoyable

  
  

With the right approach, you can manage change orders effectively and still achieve the beautiful, functional space you've been dreaming about. Your home renovation is a partnership between you and your contractor—and like any good partnership, it works best with mutual respect, clear expectations, and open communication.

By knowing what contractors wish you knew about change orders, you're already ahead of the game. Now you can approach your project with confidence, ready to create the home you've always wanted.

Preparing for Your Next Project

As you plan your upcoming renovation, keep these final tips in mind:

• Interview multiple contractors and ask specifically about their change order process

• Request references from past clients about how changes were handled

• Review sample change orders before signing your initial contract

• Set aside dedicated time each week to review progress and address potential changes early

  
  

Armed with this knowledge, you're ready to tackle your renovation with confidence and create the home of your dreams—without the change order nightmares.