Free Carpenter Change Order Template
This free carpentry change order template includes fields for the original contract reference, description of scope modifications, reason for the change, cost impact with itemized materials and labor, timeline adjustments, revised contract total, and authorization signatures. Download the PDF to document structural discoveries, design changes, and material upgrades professionally.
What's Included
- Reference to original contract or estimate number
- Sequential change order number for tracking
- Description of carpentry scope modifications
- Reason for the change (structural issue, design revision, material upgrade)
- Cost impact with itemized lumber, hardware, and labor
- Original contract amount and revised total
- Timeline impact including material lead times
- Updated material specifications (species, grade, dimensions)
- Authorization signatures for contractor and client
- Date of approval
How to Use This Template
- 1
Carpentry change orders arise from structural discoveries behind walls, client design revisions once they see work in progress, and material availability issues. Number each change order sequentially and reference the original contract. Carpenters who open walls often find surprises — a clear change order process is essential.
- 2
Specify every material change in detail: wood species, grade, dimensions, and quantity. "Upgrade trim" tells the client nothing; "Change baseboard from 3-1/4-inch MDF colonial (#620) to 5-1/4-inch poplar colonial, 340 linear feet, primed and ready for paint" communicates exactly what changed and why the cost is different.
- 3
When structural issues are discovered — termite damage, inadequate headers, notched joists, or rotted sill plates — document the condition with photos and explain the repair in terms the client can understand. Include any engineering requirements if a structural modification needs an engineer’s stamp.
- 4
Custom carpentry changes are especially sensitive because they often involve work the client will see daily (built-ins, cabinetry, trim). Use sketches or drawings alongside the change order when the modification is visual. A drawing prevents "that’s not what I pictured" conversations after the wood is cut.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggers a change order on a carpentry project?
Common triggers include structural damage discovered during demo (termite damage, rot, inadequate framing), client design changes after seeing work in progress, material unavailability requiring substitutions, code requirements for structural modifications (larger headers, hurricane ties, fire blocking), and scope additions like extra built-ins or closet systems.
How do I price material upgrades on a carpentry change order?
Show the price difference per board foot or linear foot between the original and upgraded material, multiplied by the quantity needed. Include any additional labor if the upgrade requires different techniques (hardwood trim requires pre-drilling, for example). Always document the original specification and the upgrade so the client can see the value difference.
Should I issue a change order for structural repairs found during carpentry work?
Always. Structural repairs are critical and must be documented. Include photos of the damage, a description of the required repair, any engineering consultation needed, the materials and labor involved, and the timeline impact. If the repair requires a building permit or inspection, note that as well. Never proceed with structural work on a verbal agreement.
How do I handle design changes from clients on custom carpentry?
Document the original design and the requested change with sketches or dimensions. Price the change based on the difference in materials and labor. If work already completed must be modified or redone, include the cost of that rework. Set expectations in your original contract that design changes after fabrication begins will include rework charges.
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