How Is Change Order Pricing Handled in Restoration Projects?

A change order is a documented amendment to the original restoration contract. It outlines the exact change in work, the reason for it, and the adjusted price. This document protects both you and the pros by ensuring everyone agrees on new tasks. It moves the project forward with clear expectations.

Change orders are common when hidden damage is found behind walls or under floors. They also apply if you decide to add services, like restoring antiques or electronics. The key is that no extra work begins until you approve the change order. This keeps your project organized and financially transparent.

Pricing for a change order is not arbitrary. The pros calculate the cost of additional materials, extra labor hours, and any needed equipment rental. They typically provide a line-item breakdown so you can see what you are paying for. This cost is added to the original project total, creating a new contract sum.

The cost depends heavily on the change's complexity. Restoring a water-logged painting requires different skills and materials than replacing drywall. A change order for a large commercial space, like a store or restaurant, will involve different scales of cost than one for a home. Always review the detailed estimate within the change order.

If your project is insurance-funded, change orders must often be submitted to your adjuster. The pros can provide the documentation, but you are responsible for communicating with your insurer. Send the change order to your adjuster and request approval for the added coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Do not assume supplemental damage found later is automatically covered. Your insurer needs to assess the cause and scope. Some policies have limits on certain types of content restoration, like for a museum piece or library book. Proceeding without insurer approval could leave you responsible for the extra cost.