What is the Process for Making Changes During a Remodel or Construction Project?

Home remodeling and custom construction projects are exciting, but they also require careful planning to ensure everything goes smoothly. At Emory Construction, we work closely with our clients during the planning and design phase to minimize the need for changes once construction begins. However, we understand that changes may arise during the project—this is where change orders come into play.

In this article, we’ll explain the process for making changes during a project, what you can expect, and how to handle them efficiently while keeping your project on track.

Step 1: Thorough Planning to Minimize Changes

One of the best ways to avoid costly and time-consuming changes during construction is detailed planning upfront. That’s why Emory Construction prioritizes a comprehensive planning and design phase before starting work.

What Happens in the Planning Phase?

✔ Design Consultations: We work with you to define your vision, review layout options, and finalize design details.

✔ Material Selections: From flooring and cabinetry to fixtures and paint colors, we help you make decisions before construction begins.

✔ Blueprint Reviews: We ensure that all measurements, specifications, and structural elements are correct before work starts.

Why is this important? According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), change orders account for 8-14% of total project costs when homeowners make major modifications mid-project (NAHB.org). Planning ahead helps prevent unexpected expenses and delays.

Step 2: Understanding Change Orders

If you decide to make a change after construction has started, it must go through a formal change order process. A change order is an official document that modifies the original contract by detailing the new work, cost adjustments, and timeline impacts.

Common Reasons for Change Orders:

🔹 Homeowners decide to upgrade materials or finishes

🔹 New ideas arise once construction is underway

🔹 Unforeseen site conditions require adjustments (e.g., structural surprises behind walls)

🔹 Design modifications to improve functionality or aesthetics (We suggest setting aside a 15-20% contingency fund to ensure there is a budget available for any challenges that may arise during remodeling.)

Tip: If you anticipate wanting flexibility in your design, discuss potential changes with us before construction begins to see if they can be accounted for in the initial plan.

Step 3: How Change Orders Work at Emory Construction

When a change request is made, we follow a structured process to ensure transparency and avoid misunderstandings:

1. Homeowner Submits a Change Request

• If you decide to modify an aspect of the project, notify us as soon as possible.

• We’ll document your request and discuss feasibility, pricing, and any timeline adjustments.

2. We Provide a Change Order Proposal

You’ll receive a detailed proposal outlining:

✅ The scope of the change

✅ Cost increase or decrease

✅ Additional time required (if applicable)

3. You Approve the Change Order

• Once you review and agree to the proposed change, we’ll require written approval to proceed.

• No work will be completed on the requested change until the change order is signed, ensuring full transparency.

4. Adjusted Work Begins

• Our team will incorporate the change into the project workflow while keeping the impact on cost and timeline as minimal as possible.

Step 4: Understanding Cost Implications

It’s important to know that change orders often result in additional costs, especially if they involve:

🔹 Structural modifications

🔹 Upgraded or custom materials

🔹 Additional labor or extended timelines

Example: If a homeowner decides mid-project to switch from standard quartz countertops to premium marble, the cost will increase due to material upgrades and additional labor for installation.

How to Keep Costs Manageable:

✔ Minimize Changes: Finalizing decisions during the planning phase reduces the need for costly adjustments.

✔ Consider Timing: Some changes are easier to implement earlier in the process (e.g., layout changes before framing).

✔ Ask About Alternatives: If budget is a concern, we can suggest options that achieve a similar look without a significant price jump.

Final Thoughts: Emory Construction Ensures a Smooth Process

At Emory Construction, our goal is to make your remodel or custom home build as stress-free as possible. By focusing on a detailed planning phase, we help minimize changes during construction, keeping your project on budget and on schedule.

However, we understand that new ideas can arise during the process. When they do, our clear and structured change order process ensures that every modification is handled professionally—with full transparency on pricing and impact.

Ready to Start Your Next Project?

Contact Emory Construction today for a consultation. Let’s build something incredible together—with careful planning, expert craftsmanship, and the best warranties in the industry to back it up. Click the link to get started https://www.emory-construction.com/contact