At New Beginnings Construction, we understand that the renovation and restoration process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with unexpected changes during the project.
One of the most misunderstood aspects of construction projects, particularly in roofing, siding replacements, window and door installations, or insurance restoration, is the change order.
Change orders often get a bad reputation, sometimes viewed as a “money grab” by contractors. However, we’re here to shed light on what change orders really are. We want you to understand why they happen, and how they contribute to a smoother and more successful project. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can feel confident moving forward.
What is a Change Order?
A change order is a formal document that alters the original scope of work agreed upon between the contractor and the client. This could involve modifications to the project’s materials, design, timeline, or additional work that was either not initially anticipated or requested after the project began. These changes are sometimes necessary due to unforeseen circumstances or requests from the homeowner during the construction process.
Why Change Orders Happen
Unforeseen Issues: In renovation projects, especially in older homes or restoration projects, surprises often arise once work begins. For instance, while replacing a roof, we may discover structural damage underneath that wasn’t visible initially. In these situations, we’ll need to address the new issue to ensure the home is safe and stable, which can sometimes require additional work and materials.
On several occasions we have pulled up a roof expecting only to do a straightforward roof replacement — until we spotted rotted structural framing. No one can predict these unforeseen issues, not even the inspector. This kind of surprise happens more often than you’d think. And when it does, all contractors are faced with a decision: patch it up and hope for the best, or fix it right. We are here to fix it right. That’s where a change order comes in — not as a ‘gotcha,’ but as the reality check that keeps your home safe.
We hear this statement too often ‘I was nervous when I saw the extra charge— but in reality, we are here to act as a partner and there is nothing we want our customers to have worry over. We have a reputation in our community and really take pride in what we have built here over there years.
Interior Remodeling Adjustments
When it comes to kitchens, bathrooms, and full interior remodels, change orders can stem from:
- Electrical upgrades to meet code (especially common in older homes)
- Cabinet or countertop selections going over the initial allowance
- Flooring or tile overages based on final square footage
- Hidden issues, like water damage behind walls or subfloor rot, or removing drywall to find termite damage or deteriorated insulation in the wall.
We always plan as thoroughly as possible, but real-life remodeling often reveals surprises—and we believe in confronting them with integrity.
Changes in Design or Scope:
Homeowners may decide to adjust their plans mid-project—whether it’s changing the type of siding, upgrading to higher-quality windows, or deciding to add a feature like a new entryway or skylight. These types of modifications require change orders to ensure that the additional work is done properly and is accounted for in the overall project.
Insurance Adjustments:
In the case of insurance restoration projects, change orders can occur when the insurance company’s initial estimate does not cover all the necessary work or materials. Once we begin the work, we might discover items that need to be addressed that weren’t included in the original claim. This could involve additional repairs or upgrades that weren’t covered by the initial settlement.
Permitting and Code Requirements:
Throughout a project, we must adhere to local building codes and regulations, which can change. Sometimes, a change order is necessary to comply with updated codes or to secure permits that we didn’t initially anticipate needing.
How We Minimize Surprises Upfront
We believe preparation prevents frustration. That’s why our initial quotes—especially for roofing and exterior projects—include line items for common but not guaranteed items like:
- Decking/sheathing replacement per square foot
- Hand loading charges for steep or complex roofs
- Paint prep or trim repairs for siding projects
We’re not trying to upsell—we’re giving you a realistic picture of what might come into play, so you’re not blindsided.
UNCOVERING HIDDEN DAMAGES
While replacing this homeowner’s sliding doors, we uncovered severe wood rot hidden within the frame. What started as a simple replacement turned into a necessary change order to properly address the structural damage.
Thankfully, the homeowner was relieved we caught it early — and even more grateful we had the team in place to fix it right.
Not all surprises are bad when you’ve got a contractor who communicates and cares.
Are Change Orders a Money Grab?
Absolutely not. At New Beginnings Construction, we believe in transparency and fairness. Change orders are simply a reflection of the natural evolution of a project. They occur because construction is a dynamic process, not something that can always be perfectly planned from the start.
While we understand that no one likes unexpected costs, we strive to keep communication open and clear throughout the entire process. Before proceeding with any change order, we explain why the change is necessary, how it will impact the project, and what the cost will be. We always seek the homeowner’s approval before proceeding with any change that impacts the scope of work or budget.
Our goal is not to pad our profits but to make sure the job is done right. By having a system in place for change orders, we can continue to deliver high-quality work while meeting our client’s evolving needs. After all, your satisfaction with the finished product is what matters most to us.
How We Handle Change Orders at New Beginnings Construction Clear Communication:
The moment we anticipate a change order, we communicate with the client. You will not be blindsided by any changes in price or scope. We’ll work together to evaluate the best course of action and explain the reasons for any adjustments. Written Documentation: We believe in transparency. All changes are documented and provided to you in writing, so there’s no confusion about what was agreed upon.
Approval Process:
Before any change order is implemented, you will receive a detailed breakdown of costs and how the change will impact the timeline. You’ll have the opportunity to approve or adjust the change before it moves forward. Flexibility and Fairness: We work hard to accommodate your needs and provide solutions that fit your budget, without compromising on quality. We’ll work within the scope of your project and provide options to ensure you are still getting the best value.
Our Final Thoughts
Change orders are simply a tool that allows us to deliver the best possible outcome for you and your project. They are a natural part of the construction process, especially when dealing with complex renovations, restoration projects, and the unpredictability of older homes or insurance claims.
At New Beginnings Construction, we don’t want to create any surprises or cause stress. We aim to build lasting relationships with our clients by being open, honest, and reliable. Change orders are never about taking advantage of you—they’re about making sure that your home gets the level of care and attention it needs to be safe, beautiful, and functional.
So, the next time a change order comes up, you’ll know it’s not a money grab, but simply part of making sure the job is done right. If you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming project, reach out to us. We’re here to help!
Telephone No.8437894604
