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.
Virginia Construction Contract Change Order is a legally binding document used in the construction industry to modify the terms and conditions of an existing contract. It is created when both parties involved in a construction project agree to make changes to the scope of work, project deadlines, cost estimates, or any other aspect of the original agreement. Change orders are crucial to address unforeseen circumstances, modifications in project requirements, design alterations, or any other circumstances that may arise during the construction process. They are necessary to ensure that both parties are on the same page and to mitigate any disputes that may arise due to changes in the project. Several types of Virginia Construction Contract Change Orders may be encountered in the industry, including: 1. Scope Change Order: This type of change order is used when there is a need to alter the scope of work mentioned in the original construction contract. It may involve adding or removing specific tasks, changing materials or finishes, or modifying the project's overall objectives. 2. Cost Change Order: A cost change order is issued when there is a requirement to modify the overall project budget mentioned in the contract. It may be necessary due to the addition or removal of work, changes in material costs, or unforeseen circumstances that impact the project's financial aspect. 3. Time Extension Change Order: This type of change order is used when there is a need to extend the project's completion timeline. It may be required to address delays caused by weather conditions, unexpected site conditions, labor shortages, or other factors that impede progress. 4. Design Change Order: Design change orders are issued when alterations are required in the project's original design. It may involve changes to architectural drawings, structural modifications, or adjustments to engineering specifications. 5. Product Substitution Change Order: A product substitution change order is issued when there is a need to modify the specified materials or equipment initially mentioned in the contract. It may arise due to unavailability, product discontinuation, or to address design changes that require alternative selections. Virginia Construction Contract Change Orders are crucial for maintaining transparency and ensuring smooth communication between construction contractors and clients. Each change order should be properly documented, signed, and communicated to all relevant parties involved in the project. It is essential to carefully review and negotiate the terms of the change order to avoid misunderstandings or disputes down the line. By using change orders, construction projects in Virginia can adapt to evolving circumstances and ensure that all parties are in agreement with any modifications made to the original contract.
