Change Order
A change order is a documented modification to the original construction contract that adjusts scope, schedule, or other contract terms. It typically arises when unforeseen conditions, design clarifications, regulatory updates, or client requests require revisions after work has begun. A change order usually describes the work to be added or omitted, any adjustments to time for completion, and any agreed adjustments to compensation; exact content and process depend on the contract language and project delivery method. Managing change orders is common practice to maintain project control and reduce disputes; clear documentation, timely communication, and defined approval workflows help preserve schedule and budget expectations.
A–Z
By stage
All stages Pre-construction & site preparation (4) Foundation & underground works (7) Structure & vertical envelope (2) Roof & exterior shell (4) Engineering rough-in (4) Waterproofing & wet areas (7) Envelope completion (3) Finishing works (3) Facade & site works (9) Engineering finishes (3) Commissioning & testing (2) Handover & close-out (1) Commercial placeholder Pool works (1)
Terms
- Foundation Structural base that transfers building loads to soil.
- Reinforcement Steel elements that increase concrete tensile capacity.
- Concrete grade Specified compressive strength class of concrete.
- Waterproofing Barrier systems preventing water penetration.
- Wet-area drain slope Floor fall geometry directing water to drains.
- Floor trap Drain element with seal preventing sewer odors.
- Roof slope Planned roof gradient for reliable water runoff.
- Emergency overflow drain Backup roof drainage path during heavy rain.
- Plumbing rough-in Early installation of water supply and drainage lines.
- Electrical rough-in Conduits, cable routes, and panel prep before finishes.
- Low-voltage systems Data, security, automation, and communication wiring.
- Building envelope External shell separating interior from climate.
- Glazing level Performance and quality tier of glass systems.
- Facade finish Visible exterior finish system and detailing.
- Site drainage Ground-level water management around the building.
- Soil type Ground condition category used for design factors.
- Site access Logistic difficulty of delivering labor and materials.
- Setting-out Transfer of building axes and reference geometry onto the site.
- Survey benchmark Protected survey reference used for levels and positional control.
- Plinth Lower facade zone that meets ground, splash water, and hardscape.
- Movement joint Joint detail allowing controlled movement between building elements or finishes.
- Sealant joint Flexible sealed joint used to close and protect movement-sensitive interfaces.
- Lighting driver Electrical component that regulates power for LED luminaires.
- Climate exposure Environmental stress conditions such as rain and salt.
- Commissioning Integrated testing and handover readiness checks.
- Pool type Selected technical pool concept (skimmer or overflow).