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.
South Dakota Construction Contract Change Order A construction contract change order in South Dakota refers to a written document that outlines modifications or adjustments made to an existing construction contract between two parties, such as the owner and the contractor. Change orders are essential in the construction industry to manage revisions, additions, deletions, or clarifications in the construction project scope, timeline, budget, and other contractual obligations. In South Dakota, construction contract change orders serve as a legal agreement that formalizes any change requested by either the owner or the contractor, ensuring that both parties are on the same page regarding the alterations to the original contract. Types of South Dakota Construction Contract Change Orders: 1. Scope Change Order: This refers to changes requested by the owner or architect, where adjustments are made to the project's scope. It could involve adding or removing specific features, altering project schedules, or adjusting the quality of materials. 2. Cost Change Order: This type of change order focuses on changes that impact the project's cost. It may include revisions to the project's budget, modifications in the quantity or quality of materials, or changes in labor costs due to unexpected circumstances. 3. Time Change Order: Time change orders are necessary when there is a need to adjust the project's timeline or schedule. Delays in construction, unforeseen issues, or modifications in the project scope may require extending or compressing the project's timeline. 4. Design Change Order: These change orders occur when alterations are made to the project's design or architectural plans. It may involve modifications to the building layout, structural changes, or adjustments to the overall aesthetic design. 5. Emergency Change Order: This type of change order is necessary when unforeseen circumstances or emergencies arise during the construction project. It could include urgent repairs, safety concerns, or changes mandated by local authorities or regulatory bodies. South Dakota construction contract change orders are crucial for maintaining transparency, avoiding disputes, and ensuring that all parties involved are aware of the modifications made to the original agreement. By documenting changes formally, change orders protect the interests of both the owners and the contractors, establishing clear guidelines for the successful completion of the construction project.
