What are the most common reasons for change orders in construction?

1 Design errors or omissions

Design errors or omissions, such as inaccurate measurements, missing details, or conflicting specifications, are one of the most frequent causes of change orders. To avoid or minimize design-related change orders, it's important to involve all relevant stakeholders in the design process and ensure they have a clear understanding of the project scope, objectives, and requirements. Additionally, you should use a reliable and updated software to create, share, and edit the design drawings and models. Furthermore, quality checks and peer reviews of the design documents should be conducted regularly to identify and resolve any errors or discrepancies before construction starts. Lastly, it's essential to communicate any changes or revisions to the design to all parties involved and document them properly.

3 Client requests

Client requests are another source of change orders, such as changes in scope, specifications, materials, or aesthetics. These can arise from changing needs, preferences, or expectations of the client or the end-users of the project. To handle client-related change orders, you should establish a clear and detailed contract and scope of work with the client that defines the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of each party. Additionally, maintain frequent and open communication with the client to keep them informed of the project progress and any issues or risks that may affect the project. It is also important to educate the client about the implications and consequences of any change requests on the project schedule, budget, and quality. Finally, negotiate and agree on the terms and conditions of any change orders and document them formally.

4 Regulatory requirements

Regulatory requirements can lead to change orders, such as changes in codes, standards, permits, or inspections. To cope with regulatory-related change orders, you should research and familiarize yourself with the applicable codes, standards, and regulations for your project and ensure they are reflected in the design and construction documents. Additionally, you should obtain all the necessary permits and approvals before starting construction and comply with the inspection and reporting requirements. Furthermore, it is important to stay updated on any changes or amendments to the regulations and assess their impact on your project. Finally, consulting with the relevant agencies or experts and seeking clarification or guidance on any regulatory matters or disputes is essential.

5 Unforeseen events

Unforeseen events, such as accidents, damages, theft, vandalism, or force majeure, can disrupt construction work and require repairs, replacements, or rescheduling. To manage these types of change orders, it is important to implement and enforce strict safety and security measures on the site and train staff and subcontractors on the best practices and procedures to prevent or reduce accidents and damages. Additionally, having adequate insurance coverage and contingency funds can help to cover any losses or liabilities that may arise. It is also essential to communicate and coordinate with the team and subcontractors to develop a recovery plan and a revised schedule and budget to resume the construction work as soon as possible. Lastly, documenting and reporting any unforeseen events and their impact on the project to the client and the stakeholders is key.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?