Understanding Construction Change Orders: Legal Insights and Implications
Definition & Meaning
A construction change order is a formal document issued by a contracting officer that instructs a contractor to make specific changes to the original construction contract. These changes are typically authorized under the changes clause of the contract, which allows modifications without needing the contractor's consent. Change orders often involve additional work that was not included in the initial scope of the contract and can affect the project timeline and budget.
Legal Use & context
Change orders are commonly used in construction law and contract law. They are vital in managing modifications to construction projects, especially when unforeseen circumstances arise. Legal professionals often draft and review change orders to ensure compliance with contract terms and applicable laws. Users can manage change orders using legal templates provided by services like US Legal Forms, which can simplify the process of drafting these documents.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A contractor is instructed to add an additional room to a residential building project after the original contract has been signed. The contracting officer issues a change order detailing the scope of work and additional costs associated with this change.
Example 2: During a commercial construction project, it is discovered that the existing electrical wiring does not meet current safety standards. A change order is issued to update the wiring, specifying the necessary modifications and adjustments to the project timeline. (hypothetical example)