Glossary
What Is a Change Order in Interior Projects?
Change order explained for interior firms: definition, example, common mistakes and FAQs.
Published · Updated · By DecorFlow
Key points
Written first
The change is described and priced before the work begins.
Shows the difference
Only the changed lines and the price difference are shown.
Approved and dated
The client's decision is recorded, so there is a clear history.
Definition
A change order is a written record of a change to the agreed scope: what is being added, removed or replaced, the effect on price, and the effect on the schedule. Work on the change starts only after the client has approved it.
An example
A client asks to swap laminate shutters for a veneer finish after the quotation is approved. The change order lists the affected lines, the old and new rates, the price difference and any extra lead time, and records the client's decision with the date.
Common mistakes
- Agreeing to a change by phone and starting work before it is written down.
- Showing only the new total, not the lines that changed.
- Forgetting the schedule impact.
- Mixing several unrelated changes in one document.
Common questions
When is a change order needed?
Whenever the work, materials or price differ from what was approved, including client-requested upgrades and changes to hidden conditions found on site.
Does a change order replace the contract?
No. It amends the agreed scope. How changes are handled should be set out in the contract, which a legal advisor should review.
Who approves it?
Whoever the contract names as the client's decision-maker. Record their approval with the date.
Track changes against the approved quote
DecorFlow supports change orders on quotations, so revisions stay linked to the original.
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