What a change order is, why they happen, and how a written process keeps cost and schedule under control.
A change order is a written amendment to your contract that records a change in scope, price or schedule before the work is done. They happen when you change a selection, add work, or when hidden conditions appear. The best protection is finishing selections before construction, keeping a contingency, and requiring every change to be priced and signed before work proceeds.
Why change orders happen
Most come from three sources: owner-requested changes (a different tile or an added outlet), hidden conditions (rot, outdated wiring, slab issues found at demolition), and code requirements identified during inspection.
What a good change order includes
A description of the change, the cost (add or credit), the schedule impact, and signatures from both parties — before the work happens. Novara uses a written change-order process on every project.
How to minimize them
Make selections before demo, walk the scope line by line before signing, ask about likely hidden conditions in older homes, and keep a contingency in your budget for surprises.
Next step
Ready to talk through your project? Request a free quote, call (281) 889-1068 or message us on WhatsApp. Novara Construction serves Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Cypress, Pearland, Spring and Beaumont.
Frequently asked questions
- Can a contractor charge for changes without a signed change order?
- A well-written contract requires written, signed change orders before extra work. Check your contract's terms.
- How much contingency should I keep?
- It depends on the home's age and scope; older homes and projects opening walls or floors warrant more. Discuss it with your contractor during estimating.
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