Change Order Generator

A change order is a written agreement that modifies the original contract — it documents a change in the scope of work, the price, and often the schedule. Once both parties sign it, it becomes part of the contract. Change orders protect both sides by putting added or removed work, and its cost, in writing before it happens.

Any time the work differs from what the original contract describes: the client requests an upgrade, you uncover a hidden condition, the design changes, or materials are substituted. The rule of thumb is simple — if it changes the price or the schedule, write a change order and get it signed before you do the work.

Start with the original contract sum, add the net of any prior change orders, then add the net change from this change order. This tool does the math for you as you enter line items — credits (deductions) are entered as negative amounts, and the new contract sum updates automatically.

Yes. The whole point of a change order is to get agreement on scope, price, and schedule before the extra work happens. Doing the work first and billing later is the most common reason contractors don't get paid for changes. Get the signature first.

Almost never. A change order is an amendment to a contract, and like most contracts it's binding when both parties sign — notarization is not typically required. Check your original contract's change-order clause for any specific signing or approval requirements.

Yes. Change orders work both ways. If work is removed from the scope or a less expensive material is substituted, enter the line item as a negative amount (a credit) and the new contract sum will go down accordingly.

This tool produces a standard change order document, but whether it's enforceable depends on your original contract, your state's law, and both parties signing. It is not legal advice. For disputed, complex, or high-value changes, have a construction attorney review your contract and process.

Yes, it's completely free with no signup required. Your entries are saved locally in your browser so they persist between visits — nothing is uploaded to a server. Clearing your browser data will erase your saved change order.