change order
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change order
A written order from the owner, architect, engineer, or other authorized person to depart from previously agreed upon plans and specifications for construction. Change order management is a critical aspect of any construction job, as change orders frequently change the cost of the job, usually in an amount in excess of what might otherwise be expected. Many subcontractors bid jobs at break-even prices in order to secure the work, confident that numerous change orders will provide the profit necessary.
Example: An electrician might contract to perform all wiring and electrical work for a home for $2,000. Additional outlets added by change order might be billed at $65 each, even though the additional labor and materials might amount to only $5 each.