When you need a change order
Any time the customer asks for something that wasn't in the accepted quote: a bigger patio, an upgraded material, a wall that turned out to be rotten. Doing the work first and billing later is how contractors end up arguing over invoices.
What to put on a change order
- The original quote or contract number
- What's changing, in plain words
- The cost of the change, itemized
- Any change to the schedule
- Signatures from you and the customer, with the date
Download the PDF, send it the same day, and don't start the extra work until it comes back signed.
Questions
Does a change order need a signature?
Yes. A signed change order is your record that the customer approved the extra cost. Without one, the extra work is hard to collect on.
Can a change order reduce the price?
Yes. Use a negative line item for work that's been removed from the scope.