Free Electrician Change Order Template
This free electrical change order template includes fields for the original contract reference, detailed description of electrical scope changes, reason for the modification, cost impact with itemized materials and labor, timeline adjustments, revised contract total, and dual authorization signatures. Download the PDF to document every wiring change professionally.
What's Included
- Reference to original contract or estimate number
- Sequential change order number for tracking
- Detailed description of electrical scope changes
- Reason for the change (code requirement, client request, hidden conditions)
- Cost impact with itemized materials, permits, and labor
- Original contract amount and revised total
- Timeline impact and revised completion date
- Impact on existing circuits or panel capacity
- Authorization signatures for contractor and client
- Date of approval
How to Use This Template
- 1
Number each change order sequentially (CO-001, CO-002) and tie it to the original contract. Electrical work generates more change orders than most trades because hidden conditions behind walls are the norm, not the exception. A clear numbering system keeps everyone aligned when multiple changes stack up.
- 2
Describe every electrical change with precision: wire gauge, circuit amperage, breaker type, outlet or fixture locations, and any panel modifications. "Add outlets in the kitchen" invites disputes; "Install three 20A GFCI outlets on dedicated circuits along the south kitchen wall, fed from panel slots 14, 16, and 18" eliminates ambiguity.
- 3
Break down costs so the client understands what they’re paying for: materials (wire, breakers, boxes, devices), permit fees if a new permit pull is required, and labor hours. Electrical materials are well-documented with standard pricing, so transparency builds trust and reduces pushback on change order approvals.
- 4
Never start additional electrical work without a signed change order. Unauthorized wiring changes create liability issues that go beyond cost disputes — they can affect inspection outcomes, insurance coverage, and your license. If the change is code-required, explain that clearly and document the inspector’s directive.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should an electrician issue a change order?
Issue a change order whenever the scope deviates from the original contract. Common triggers include: discovering knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring that must be replaced, a panel that needs upgrading to handle the new load, client-requested additions like EV charger outlets or smart home wiring, and code violations found during rough-in inspection that require rework.
How do I handle code-required electrical changes on a change order?
Document the specific code section (e.g., NEC 210.12 AFCI requirements) and note whether the requirement was identified during inspection or by the contractor. Code-required changes are non-negotiable, but the client still needs to approve the cost. Include a note that refusing the change means the project cannot pass inspection.
Should I charge more for change order work on electrical projects?
Price change orders at your standard rates — do not discount. Change order work is often harder than original scope because you’re working around completed installations, may need to open finished walls, or must recalculate panel loads. If the change requires a new permit or re-inspection, include those fees as a separate line item.
What if the client wants to add circuits but the panel is full?
This is one of the most common electrical change order scenarios. Document the current panel capacity, explain why a sub-panel or panel upgrade is required, and price it as a separate line item within the change order. Include the cost of the new panel, additional breakers, and the labor to rewire existing circuits if needed.
Related Templates
Electrician Estimating Guide
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