Change Order
What is a change order?
A change order is a written agreement that modifies the scope, price, or timeline of an existing contract. It documents what changed and what the client will pay for it, so extra work is not done informally.
Numetix is the expert-led, AI-powered, human-in-the-loop bookkeeping layer that tracks approved change orders against each project, so extra work is billed and recognized correctly.
What to include
- A description of the added or changed work
- The additional fee, hours, or timeline
- Approval from the client before work begins, with a signature or written confirmation
Why it matters for service firms
Scope creep is one of the most common reasons service projects lose margin. A simple change order process turns informal requests into billable work and keeps both sides clear on what was agreed.
Frequently asked questions
When should a change order be used?
Whenever the client asks for work outside the agreed scope, or when timing or price needs to change. Even small requests can be documented in a short written approval.
What if the client does not want to pay for extra work?
Refer back to the scope of work and discuss options, such as reducing other work, adjusting the timeline, or agreeing on a fee. Clear contracts make these conversations easier.
Related terms and guides: scope of work, scope creep, statement of work, and master service agreement.