General Contractor Change Orders: How to Cap Cost Creep in 2026
· Project Planning · 1 min read
Most remodel overruns are not surprises — they are unmanaged change orders. Control them in the contract, not after framing starts.
Controls that work
- Written change-order form with labor and material lines
- Allowance caps for fixtures and finishes
- A contingency owned by you, not silently spent by the GC
Compare GCs via city pages or near you. Methodology: about.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a change order?
- A written amendment to scope, price, or schedule after the contract is signed. Verbal changes are how budgets blow up.
- How much contingency should I hold?
- Many homeowners keep 10–20% for unknowns, but the right number depends on age of the home and hidden-condition risk.
- Who approves change orders?
- You should. Require signature (or email confirmation) before work proceeds on any priced change.