What is the purpose of a change order in construction projects?

A change order serves the critical function of documenting any alterations or changes to the original contract in construction projects. This often involves modifications to the project's scope, design, or materials that arise after the initial agreement has been made. By formalizing these changes in a change order, all parties involved have a clear and official record of what has been agreed upon, which helps prevent disputes and misunderstandings later on.

The formulation of a change order is essential for maintaining communication and contract clarity among contractors, clients, and other stakeholders. This also ensures that any adjustments to the project's cost or timeline are properly accounted for and agreed upon, thus fostering a smoother project progression.

In contrast, requesting an extension of the contract duration, terminating the contract early, or establishing new payment terms, while potentially related to construction project management, do not capture the primary purpose of a change order. These actions might involve separate agreements or stipulations distinct from the change order process.