What Is a Change Order in Remodeling? A Homeowner’s Guide

You’re halfway through a kitchen renovation when the contractor says the wall you wanted to remove is load-bearing. Or maybe you discover outdated wiring behind the drywall that needs replacement. Suddenly, the cost and timeline shift. That’s when you first ask: what is change order in remodeling? Change orders are formal documents that modify the original contract,adding or removing work, adjusting costs, or extending schedules. They happen in nearly every remodeling project, but many homeowners don’t understand them until they’re faced with one. Ignoring the need for a clear change order process can lead to budget blowouts, unfinished work, and legal disputes. Understanding how change orders work helps you protect your investment and keep your project on track.

Understanding What Is a Change Order in Remodeling

A change order is simply a written amendment to your original remodeling contract. It documents any change in the scope of work, materials, costs, or timeline after the project has started. For example, if you decide to upgrade from laminate countertops to quartz, the contractor will issue a change order that reflects the new price and any schedule adjustments.

Change orders happen for many reasons. You might discover hidden problems like mold or rot during demolition. Or you could change your mind about a design choice. Sometimes, the original plans were incomplete or the contractor misjudged the work required. Virtually any remodeling project,from bathroom updates to full kitchen overhauls,can involve change orders. Older homes are especially prone to surprises behind walls, which makes understanding change orders critical.

Why Change Orders Are Common in Home Remodeling

No matter how detailed your initial plan is, remodeling involves variables that are hard to predict. Walls may contain unexpected plumbing, electrical, or structural elements. Building codes may require upgrades you didn’t plan for. Your preferences might evolve once you see materials in place. Change orders are the tool that keeps the project flexible while protecting both you and the contractor. Without them, verbal agreements can lead to confusion, disputes, and extra charges you didn’t authorize.

Why This Matters for Your Home

Change orders directly affect your budget, timeline, and final results. If you don’t manage them properly, you could end up paying thousands more than expected or waiting weeks longer for completion. More importantly, skipping proper change order documentation can lead to safety risks. For example, if a contractor removes a load-bearing wall without a structural engineer’s approval and it isn’t documented, your home’s structural integrity could be compromised.

Delays caused by unapproved changes can also lead to cost increases for materials and labor. And if disputes arise, you have no written record to resolve them. Over time, poorly managed changes can reduce your home’s value or create code violations that are expensive to fix. According to industry data, remodeling projects that use clear change order processes finish on budget 35% more often than those that don’t.

If you notice signs of this issue in your home, it may help to speak with a qualified contractor. Request a free quote or call to explore your repair or remodeling options.

Common Problems Homeowners Experience

Homeowners often encounter change orders when unexpected conditions are uncovered during demolition. For instance, you might find outdated knob-and-tube wiring that must be brought up to code, or water damage behind tiles that requires remediation. These discoveries force changes to the original plan and increase costs.

Another common issue is scope creep,when you add small changes without formal change orders. A “while you’re at it” request for an extra outlet or a slightly larger window can snowball into significant budget overruns. Without written documentation, it’s easy to lose track of what was agreed upon and what it will cost.

Here are typical problems that lead to change orders:

• Hidden structural issues (rotted beams, foundation cracks)
• Outdated electrical or plumbing that doesn’t meet current codes
• Design changes made after construction begins
• Material shortages or discontinued products
• Miscommunication between homeowner and contractor
• Unforeseen site conditions (rocky soil, asbestos, mold)

How Professionals Solve the Problem

Experienced contractors handle change orders with a structured process that protects everyone. They document the requested change, provide a clear cost estimate, and get your written approval before proceeding. This transparency prevents surprises and ensures you remain in control of your budget. Professionals also anticipate common surprises,especially in older homes,and build reasonable contingencies into the original contract.

The typical change order process follows these steps:

1. Identify the change , You or the contractor notice something that requires a deviation from the original plan.
2. Document the scope , The contractor writes a detailed description of the new work, including materials, labor, and timeline impact.
3. Price the change , A fixed price or time-and-materials estimate is provided for the additional work.
4. Get your approval , You review and sign the change order before any work begins.
5. Update the project schedule , The contractor adjusts the timeline and communicates any delays.
6. Complete and document , The work is done, and the change order is filed with the original contract for future reference.

Professional work is safer and more reliable than DIY fixes because contractors carry insurance, know local building codes, and have experience handling unexpected conditions. Attempting to bypass a change order by doing unapproved work yourself can void warranties, create safety hazards, and lead to costly code violations. In our guide on Kitchen Remodeling: Essential Tips for a Successful Project, we explain how professionals manage changes effectively.

A professional inspection can reveal hidden issues before they become expensive repairs. Compare contractor quotes here or call to discuss your project.

Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Certain signs indicate you may face change orders during your remodeling project. Recognizing them early helps you prepare mentally and financially. For example, if your home was built before 1980, there’s a higher chance of outdated systems or hazardous materials like asbestos. A contractor who hesitates to provide written estimates or avoids discussing potential changes is another red flag.

You should also watch for vague contracts that don’t specify materials, timelines, or payment schedules. If the contractor frequently suggests “we’ll figure it out as we go,” that’s a sign that change orders may become frequent and costly. Additionally, if you find yourself making design decisions on the fly without consulting the contract, you’re at risk for scope creep.

Early warning signs that change orders may be needed:

• Visible water stains, mold, or rot during initial walkthrough
• Cracked foundations or sagging floors that suggest structural issues
• Outdated electrical panels or aluminum wiring
• Unexplained odors (musty, chemical) that could indicate hidden problems
• Contractor uses vague language like “standard” without defining it
• You feel pressured to make quick decisions without written documentation

What Affects the Cost of Repairs or Installation

The cost of a change order depends on several factors. The size and complexity of the change matter most,adding a single outlet costs far less than re-routing plumbing. Material choices also drive costs; custom or premium materials will increase the price. Labor rates vary by region and trade, with specialized work like structural engineering or electrical upgrades costing more.

Accessibility of the work area is another key factor. If a change requires opening walls that were already finished, you’ll pay for demolition, repair, and repainting. The age of your home plays a role too,older homes often require more labor to bring systems up to current codes. Finally, the timing of the change matters; changes made late in the project can cause more disruption and cost more to implement.

Costs can vary depending on the condition of your home. The best way to know the price is to get a personalized estimate. Request free quotes from contractors or call today.

How to Choose the Right Contractor

Selecting a contractor who handles change orders professionally is essential for a smooth remodeling experience. Look for someone who communicates clearly, provides written estimates, and has a transparent change order process. A good contractor will walk you through the change order form before the project starts so you know what to expect.

Don’t rely solely on price,focus on value and trust. A contractor with a slightly higher bid but a solid reputation for managing changes can save you money and stress in the long run. Always get multiple quotes and compare not just the bottom line, but the terms, warranties, and change order policies. For more on planning, see our guide on Bathroom Remodeling Steps: A Comprehensive Guide.

Tips for choosing a contractor:

• Verify licenses, insurance, and bonding before signing anything
• Read online reviews and ask for references from recent projects
• Request detailed, line-item estimates that include a change order clause
• Compare at least three quotes to understand market pricing
• Confirm the contractor has experience with your specific type of project (e.g., historic homes, kitchen remodels)

Long-Term Benefits of Professional Work

Professional remodeling with proper change order management delivers lasting value. Your home will be safer because all work meets current building codes. The finished project will be more durable, with fewer callbacks and repairs down the road. Energy efficiency improvements, like upgraded insulation or windows, can reduce utility bills for years to come.

A well-managed project also protects your home’s resale value. When it’s time to sell, documented change orders show that all modifications were approved and completed professionally,an advantage during inspections and appraisals. Finally, working with a professional reduces your stress. You know the project is in capable hands, and if changes arise, they’re handled fairly and transparently. If you’re considering a DIY approach, our guide on Bathroom Remodeling DIY: A Comprehensive Guide to a Successful Project can help you weigh the trade-offs.

What is a change order in remodeling?

A change order is a written amendment to your original remodeling contract that outlines any changes in scope, cost, or timeline. It ensures both you and the contractor agree on the modification before work begins. Without a change order, verbal agreements can lead to disputes and unexpected charges.

Who pays for a change order?

The homeowner typically pays for change orders, since they represent additional work or upgraded materials. However, if the change is due to a contractor error or omission in the original bid, the contractor may cover the cost. Always review who is responsible before signing.

Can I refuse a change order?

Yes, you can refuse a change order if you don’t agree with the scope or cost. However, refusing a necessary change,like bringing electrical systems up to code,may delay the project or cause safety issues. It’s best to discuss alternatives with your contractor.

How much should I budget for change orders?

Industry experts recommend setting aside 10,20% of your total remodeling budget for unforeseen changes. This contingency covers hidden problems like mold, outdated wiring, or structural issues. Having this buffer reduces financial stress when change orders arise.

What happens if there’s no written change order?

Without a written change order, you risk disputes over costs, timelines, and work quality. Contractors may charge more than expected, and you have no documentation to resolve disagreements. Always insist on written change orders for any modification.

Are change orders common in small remodels?

Yes, even small projects like bathroom updates can involve change orders. Hidden water damage, outdated plumbing, or design changes can trigger them. The size of the project doesn’t eliminate the possibility of surprises.

How long does a change order take to process?

Simple change orders can be processed within a day or two. Complex changes that require engineering review or material sourcing may take a week or more. Your contractor should give you a timeline for approval before proceeding.

Can a change order be verbal?

While verbal agreements are sometimes made for minor adjustments, they are not recommended. Without written documentation, it’s easy for miscommunication to occur. Always get change orders in writing, even for small changes.

Change orders are a normal part of remodeling, but they don’t have to be stressful. By understanding what they are and how to manage them, you can protect your budget, timeline, and peace of mind. The key is working with a professional contractor who communicates clearly and documents everything. Before starting your next project, compare quotes from multiple contractors to find someone who handles change orders transparently. Taking that step now can save you thousands and ensure your remodeling experience is a positive one.