Change Orders are instructions to revise construction plans after they have been completed. Change orders are common to most projects, and very common with large projects. After the original scope (or contract) is formed, complete with the total price to be paid and the specific work to be completed, a client may decide that the original plans do not best represent his definition for the finished project. Accordingly, the client will suggest an alternate approach.
Common causes for change orders to be created are:
" The project's work was incorrectly estimated
" The customer or project team discovers obstacles or possible efficiencies that require them to deviate from the original plan
" The customer or project team are inefficient or incapable of completing their required deliverables within budget, and additional money, time, or resources must be added to the project
" During the course of the project, additional features or options are perceived and requested.
A Massachusetts Construction Contract Change Order refers to a formal document that outlines any modifications, additions, or deletions to an existing construction contract in the state of Massachusetts. It is essential in ensuring clarity and transparency during the construction process, especially when unforeseen circumstances or project requirements change. By formally documenting any changes, both parties involved in the contract can avoid disputes and confusion while maintaining a smooth construction workflow. Keywords: Massachusetts, Construction Contract Change Order, modifications, additions, deletions, existing construction contract, clarity, transparency, unforeseen circumstances, project requirements, disputes, confusion, smooth construction workflow. Different Types of Massachusetts Construction Contract Change Orders: 1. Scope Change Orders: A scope change order is issued when there is a need to modify the project's scope — for instance, altering plans, changing specifications, or adjusting design elements. It allows for adjustments to be made to meet unforeseen circumstances or evolving requirements during construction. 2. Time and Schedule Change Orders: These change orders are used when there is a need to modify the project timeline. This can occur due to factors such as delays, weather conditions, or unexpected issues that affect the construction progress. By documenting time changes in a change order, both parties can adjust their expectations and plan accordingly. 3. Cost Change Orders: When there are changes to the budgeted costs within a construction project, a cost change order is issued. It could be due to additional work requested by the owner, unforeseen circumstances leading to extra expenses, or changes in material costs. This type of change order ensures that any financial adjustments are properly documented and agreed upon. 4. Contractual Change Orders: Contractual change orders involve modifications to the terms and conditions of the original construction contract. It can address issues like payment terms, liability allocation, insurance coverage, or any other clauses in the contract that require revision or clarification. 5. Administrative Change Orders: Administrative change orders are typically minor changes that address administrative matters within the construction project. These could include changes in contact information, personnel assignments, or any administrative tasks that need modification to maintain accurate documentation. Keywords: Scope Change Orders, Time and Schedule Change Orders, Cost Change Orders, Contractual Change Orders, Administrative Change Orders, modify, project scope, plans, specifications, design, timeline, delays, weather conditions, unexpected issues, budgeted costs, additional work, owner, financial adjustments, terms and conditions, contractual revisions, administrative matters.
