Under which conditions do most contractors indicate changes to the work are valid?

Most contractors indicate changes to the work as valid when there is a signed change order authorizing the scope and price. This process is critical in construction and contracting because it ensures that all parties involved have a mutual understanding and agreement regarding the changes being made. A change order serves as a formal document that outlines the modifications to the original contract, including any adjustments to the scope of work and the associated costs.

This formalization is essential for several reasons: it provides legal protection for all parties, establishes clear expectations, and helps prevent disputes related to the changes in work. It also ensures that there is a documented trail of any alterations, which can be referenced if there are questions or issues later in the project.

In contrast, verbal agreements, while they may reflect an understanding, lack the legal and formal binding nature that a signed change order provides. Additionally, conditions like completing an inspection or relying solely on supplier confirmation do not inherently address the contractual obligations and clarity needed for managing changes to the work effectively. Therefore, a signed change order is the universally recognized standard for validating changes in contractual agreements.