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Change is Inevitable. Be Smart About It.

If you’ve made it this far in the remodel process and stuck by my recommendations, you should have clearly articulated your vision and developed a project plan before construction began. But change happens. It’s a part of life–and remodeling.

If you’re thinking of changing your design, make sure you and all members of your remodel team have an official record of that change.  Remember when I said that anything not written down wasn’t official? That especially applies to changes. Changing any part of your remodel is not something that should be communicated in a hallway conversation.  Any change, no matter how small, should be documented in a “change order.”

There are many reasons for change orders. Delays, omissions/errors, owner-requested changes, contractor requested change, unforeseen site conditions, and regulatory requirements are just a few common ones. Anytime a change is requested and approved by all parties, document it so everyone is officially put on notice regarding the change. In addition to the reason for the change, the following information should also be noted in every change order:

• Explanation as to why the change was necessary
• Impact in both money and time as a result of the change
• Break down of each change order as individual line items

If you budgeted correctly, there’s no need to panic since the cost of the changes should already be covered in your contingency cushion.  However, also remember that when it comes to change orders, you can never have too much scrutiny.  You’ve worked hard to keep costs down–so, don’t let your guard down!

Make sure everyone involved in the project fully understands the impact of the change order, and that all parties have approved the change order as written before work continues.  I realize changes are frustrating, but don’t let unexpected issues sour your relationship with your contractor. To some degree, they are inevitable.  Most importantly, don’t let changes decrease your enthusiasm for the end result. When all is said and done, bringing your dream home to life is worth it!