Delays and Change Orders

Delays and change orders can have a significant impact on the cost of any construction project. A delay occurs when a task or activity is not completed on time, and a change order is a formal request for modifications to the original scope of work. Both of these events can have a domino effect on the entire project timeline and budget.

When a delay occurs, it can cause a ripple effect throughout the project schedule. As a result, other tasks may need to be rescheduled or pushed back, causing additional costs to be incurred. For example, if a delay occurs in the foundation phase of a building, it could delay the framing, electrical, and plumbing work, leading to longer overall construction time, and ultimately higher labor and material costs.

Similarly, change orders can impact the project in several ways. If a change order is issued after the initial design and planning phase, it can cause delays while the changes are reviewed, approved, and implemented. Furthermore, changes to the original scope of work can require additional resources, such as new materials or equipment, additional labor, and longer work hours, all of which can increase costs.

In summary, delays and change orders can significantly impact project costs by causing delays, disrupting the project schedule, and requiring additional resources. By proactively managing these issues and working to minimize them, construction professionals can ensure that their projects remain on time and within budget.