Change Orders are instructions to revise construction plans after they have been completed. Change orders are common to most projects, and very common with large projects. After the original scope (or contract) is formed, complete with the total price to be paid and the specific work to be completed, a client may decide that the original plans do not best represent his definition for the finished project. Accordingly, the client will suggest an alternate approach.
Common causes for change orders to be created are:
" The project's work was incorrectly estimated
" The customer or project team discovers obstacles or possible efficiencies that require them to deviate from the original plan
" The customer or project team are inefficient or incapable of completing their required deliverables within budget, and additional money, time, or resources must be added to the project
" During the course of the project, additional features or options are perceived and requested.
Maine Construction Contract Change Order refers to a legal document that outlines modifications or amendments made to an existing construction contract in the state of Maine. These changes are typically requested by either the contractor or the client to accommodate unforeseen circumstances, modifications, additional work, or adjustments in the project's scope, timeline, cost, or specifications. A Change Order is an essential tool in the construction industry to ensure both parties are protected and their rights and obligations are clearly defined. It helps in preventing disputes and clarifying any changes that may arise during the construction process. Some common types of Maine Construction Contract Change Orders include: 1. Scope Change Order: This type of change order is used when there is a need to modify the project's scope of work. It may involve additional work, deletion of certain tasks, or changes in the project's specifications. 2. Time Extension Change Order: As construction projects often face delays due to various factors, a time extension change order is used to officially adjust the project's timeline. It accounts for any delay caused by unforeseen events, weather conditions, or client-requested modifications that affect the project's completion date. 3. Cost Change Order: When there are alterations to the project's scope or specifications, it often results in changes to the overall cost. A cost change order is used to document and approve any variations in the contract price. It includes cost increases due to additional work, material price fluctuations, unforeseen challenges, or cost reductions due to scope modifications. 4. Design Change Order: This type of change order is issued when there is a need to modify the project's design or architectural plans. It may include changes to the building layout, structural modifications, or adjustments to meet updated safety codes or client preferences. 5. Owner-Requested Change Order: In some cases, the client may request changes to the original contract due to personal preferences or other business requirements. These change orders can include any alterations requested by the owner that affect the project's scope, cost, or timeline. Maine Construction Contract Change Orders are crucial for maintaining transparency, ensuring proper documentation, and managing changes efficiently in construction projects. It is essential for all parties involved to carefully review and sign these change orders avoiding future disputes and ensure project success.
