Change Orders and Differing Site Conditions
Protecting your time and money when the government changes the work or the site is not as shown.
On construction projects, change is normal. How you handle it often decides whether a job stays profitable.
Changes clause
The changes clause lets the contracting officer direct changes in the work. When a change increases cost or time, you are entitled to an equitable adjustment — but only if you ask properly and on time. Get direction in writing before performing changed work wherever possible, and price the change before you commit crews and materials.
Differing site conditions
If you encounter a latent physical condition materially different from what the contract indicated — or an unknown condition unusual for the area — you can be entitled to an adjustment. The classic mistake is to press on, absorb the cost, and claim later. Notice the condition to the contracting officer promptly.
Notice is everything
Both clauses carry short notice windows. Send written notice when you first recognize a change or a differing condition, keep detailed cost records, and follow up with a priced proposal. Rights are lost more often to missed notices than to lack of merit.
General information for construction small businesses, not legal advice.