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.
A Mississippi Construction Contract Change Order refers to a written document that outlines modifications or adjustments made to an existing construction contract in the state of Mississippi. It serves as an official record of any changes to the original terms, specifications, scope of work, materials, or costs outlined in the initial contract. In Mississippi, different types of Construction Contract Change Orders may exist based on the nature and purpose of the modification. Some common types of change orders include: 1. Scope Change Order: This type of change order occurs when there is a need to alter or expand the project's scope of work. It may involve adding or removing specific tasks or revising the project's objectives. 2. Design Change Order: A design change order is issued when modifications are required in the project's design plans or drawings. This could involve altering architectural or engineering drawings to meet unforeseen challenges or client requests. 3. Material Change Order: A material change order is relevant when there is a need to substitute or change materials specified in the original contract. This could arise due to material unavailability, price fluctuations, or client preferences. 4. Schedule Change Order: A schedule change order is utilized to adjust the project timeline or extend project deadlines. Such changes could be necessary due to weather conditions, project delays, or unforeseen circumstances impacting the construction schedule. 5. Price Change Order: This type of change order is used when there is a need to modify the overall cost of the project. It may be due to additional work, changes in material prices, labor cost fluctuations, or any other cost-related factors. 6. Administrative Change Order: An administrative change order is employed when specific administrative details of the original contract need to be modified. This could include changes to personnel, contact information, insurance requirements, or project communication protocols. It is important to note that any changes made through a Construction Contract Change Order must be agreed upon by all relevant parties involved in the project, including the client, contractor, and any other stakeholders. The change order should be sufficiently detailed, including specific descriptions of the changes, associated costs, schedules, and requirements, to avoid ambiguity or disputes. Adhering to the laws and regulations set forth by the state of Mississippi is crucial while executing and documenting these change orders to ensure a transparent and legally binding process.
