Free Drywall Change Order Template
This free drywall change order template includes fields for the original contract reference, description of scope changes, reason for the modification, cost impact with itemized materials and labor, timeline adjustments, revised contract total, and authorization signatures. Download the PDF to document water damage repairs, finish level upgrades, texture changes, and additional scope professionally.
What's Included
- Reference to original contract or estimate number
- Sequential change order number for tracking
- Description of drywall scope changes with affected rooms and walls
- Reason for the change (hidden damage, finish upgrade, additional area)
- Cost impact with itemized drywall, compound, tape, and labor
- Original contract amount and revised total
- Timeline impact including dry times between coats
- Updated finish level specification (Level 1–5)
- Authorization signatures for contractor and client
- Date of approval
How to Use This Template
- 1
Drywall change orders commonly arise when demo reveals water damage, mold, or structural issues behind existing walls, or when clients upgrade the finish level. Number each change order sequentially and reference the original contract. Specify the exact rooms and walls affected so there’s no ambiguity about scope.
- 2
Describe finish level changes using the industry-standard scale (Level 0–5). "Smoother finish" means different things to different people; "Upgrade from Level 3 (standard tape and coat) to Level 5 (skim coat entire surface) on all walls in the master bedroom and living room, 680 sq ft total" sets a clear, measurable standard.
- 3
Water damage and mold discovery behind drywall is a common change order trigger. Document the extent of damage with photos, note whether mold remediation is required before new drywall can be installed, and include the cost of moisture testing, remediation, and any structural repair needed. If remediation requires a specialist, note that as a separate cost.
- 4
When additional drywall area is added to the scope (finishing a previously unfinished space, adding a wall, closing up an opening), measure and document the square footage precisely. Include the board footage, number of joints, corner bead, and the number of finish coats. Drywall is one of the most measurable trades — use that precision in your change orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggers a change order on a drywall project?
The most common triggers include water damage or mold discovered behind existing drywall, client requests to upgrade the finish level (e.g., from Level 3 to Level 5 for a glossy paint), adding soundproofing layers in shared walls, texture changes (smooth to knockdown, or vice versa), additional walls or areas added to the scope, and structural modifications by other trades that create more drywall to finish.
How do I price a finish level upgrade on a change order?
Price the difference per square foot between the original and upgraded finish level. A Level 3 finish might cost $1.50/sq ft while a Level 5 costs $3.00/sq ft. The change order should show: (upgraded price − original price) × total square footage = cost difference. Include the additional compound, sanding, and labor hours required.
Should I issue a change order for mold found behind drywall?
Absolutely. Stop work, document the mold with photos, and issue a change order. Depending on the extent, professional mold remediation may be required before new drywall can be installed. Include the cost of remediation (or note it as a separate contractor expense), any structural repair, and the additional drywall and finishing. This is a health and safety issue that cannot be ignored.
How do texture changes work on a drywall change order?
Document the original texture specification and the new one: orange peel, knockdown, skip trowel, smooth, popcorn removal, etc. Include the affected square footage, additional materials (texture compound, tools), and labor. Texture changes can significantly impact cost — going from knockdown to smooth requires more coats and sanding. If the change affects only certain rooms, be specific about which areas.
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Drywall Estimating Guide
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