What is a change order used for in construction administration?

A change order is a critical tool in construction administration used to make formal changes to the contract scope. When circumstances arise that require modifications to the original scope of work outlined in the contract, such as alterations in project specifications, additional work requirements, or changes due to unforeseen conditions, a change order is employed to reflect those adjustments in a structured and recorded manner.

This process is essential for maintaining clarity and ensuring all parties are aware of the updated terms, which helps prevent disputes and misunderstandings later in the project. Change orders include details such as the description of the change, the reason for the change, adjustments to the project timeline, and any impact on costs.

By formally documenting these changes, both the project manager and the contractor can align their expectations and responsibilities, thereby facilitating smoother project execution. This contrasts with other options, which do not accurately capture the specific purpose of a change order in the construction administration process.