Who may at any time change or alter by adding or deducting from work without invalidating the contract, provided the changes are written?

Who may at any time change or alter by adding or deducting from work without invalidating the contract, provided the changes are written?

• A. Contractor
• B. Architect
• C. Engineer
• D. Owner

Answer: (D)

Change orders are the formal way to modify the scope, cost, or schedule of a project without breaking the contract. The party who can authorize these changes, adding or deducting from the work while keeping the contract valid, is the owner, as long as the changes are documented in writing. This written record makes clear exactly what is changed, the new price, and any time adjustments, so both sides understand and agree to the updated terms. Architects and engineers may propose or review changes, but they don’t have unilateral authority to alter the contract; the owner must provide the written change for it to be enforceable.

Change orders are the formal way to modify the scope, cost, or schedule of a project without breaking the contract. The party who can authorize these changes, adding or deducting from the work while keeping the contract valid, is the owner, as long as the changes are documented in writing. This written record makes clear exactly what is changed, the new price, and any time adjustments, so both sides understand and agree to the updated terms. Architects and engineers may propose or review changes, but they don’t have unilateral authority to alter the contract; the owner must provide the written change for it to be enforceable.