Change orders: the small paperwork gap that eats profit

Extra work is normal in commercial construction. The contract decides whether extra work becomes paid work.

4 min readChange order / extra work

Plain-English translationThe GC can ask for changes in the field, but the contract may say you only get paid if the paperwork is perfect first.

Why it mattersMillwork changes are expensive. Field dimensions shift, finishes change, hardware gets substituted, and schedule pressure makes verbal approvals tempting.

Why this matters in millwork

Custom fabrication is not like moving a few boxes around. A changed dimension can mean new material, new shop time, new finish work, new drawings, and a new delivery plan.

If the subcontract says only a perfectly signed change order creates payment, a shop can end up doing real extra work while the GC later says the paperwork was not good enough.

A practical pushback

Ask for a field-friendly approval path. If the GC's superintendent or project manager directs changed work in writing, that should preserve the claim while formal pricing is resolved.

Also make sure each change order says whether time is extended. A price-only change can accidentally waive schedule impact.

These guides are educational and are not legal advice. Contract enforceability changes by state, project type, and facts. Use this as a checklist, then have a construction lawyer review important final language.

AGC: change order definition American Bar Association: basics of change orders