How GCs Can Stop Losing Money on Change Orders

The Handshake Problem

A homeowner says "can you also move that outlet?" You say "sure, that's extra." They nod. Three weeks later at final payment: "I never agreed to that charge."

This is how general contractors lose $5,000-15,000/year — undocumented change orders.

The Fix: Quote Every Change

No matter how small, every change gets a new quote. $200 outlet move? Send a quote. Client approves it in writing (email, text, or signed quote). Now you have documentation.

"I lost $12,000 in one year on disputed change orders. Now I send a quote for every single change, no matter how small. Zero disputes in 8 months." — Roberto A., Miami FL

What a Change Order Quote Includes

• Description of additional work
• Impact on timeline (adds X days)
• Additional cost (materials + labor)
• "Approval required before work begins"

The 5-Minute Rule

If a change takes less than 5 minutes to quote, do it immediately from your phone before you pick up a tool. "Let me send you a quick quote for that change." Professional, fast, and protected.

Your next step: The next time a client asks for a change, pause and say: "Absolutely — let me send you a quick quote for that." Then do it before starting the work.