Free change order template
Undocumented extra work is the most reliable way for a profitable job to become a break-even one. The conversation on site is friendly and the customer means it, but months later the recollection has drifted and there is nothing to point at. This template captures what changed, what it costs, what it does to the schedule, and a signature — which is the only part that actually matters when the invoice is questioned.
Four fields and a signature
What changed, what it costs, how it affects the completion date, and who approved it. Anything longer will not get filled in on a jobsite, and a form that does not get used protects nobody.
Sign it before the work happens
A change order signed afterwards is a request for payment. Signed beforehand it is an agreement. The difference shows up in how often you get paid for it.
Common questions
- Does a photo of a signed form count?
- Generally yes, and it is far better than nothing. A signature captured in the app is cleaner because it carries a timestamp.
- What if the customer refuses to sign?
- Then you have found out before doing the work rather than after — which is exactly what the form is for.