In construction contracting, it's common for contractors to maintain a list of change order requests in a Change Order Request log (CORL). Generally speaking, although there are various software solutions available, CORLs are done in a spreadsheet such as Excel with many columns for tracking change orders and updates versus schedule and approval. The log is a running list of all the changes to the contract that have been approved and sent from the owner to the contractor, or from the contractor to a subcontractor. To be effective, a CORL should capture sufficient detail to support decision making on each request.

The log is generally the only reference of all the changes made on a project, so it's critical that is it updated and well-maintained. It's imperative that a process is established to ensure that every time a Change Order Request is submitted, that it is concurrently added to the log and emailed to the related stakeholders. This both ensures that the order submitter has a record of the request, and that the receiver has a real-time view of the changes that are occuring, and a single point where the data can be found for later review.

CORLs also provide the ability confirm that requested changes have in fact been logged, are in progress, have been put on hold, or have been completed. Additionally, the log offers space to lay out in detail exactly why the change was needed and how it will impact the final project. Finally, the log should contain applicable dates, approvals, and status.

This sample resource is provided to you free by SINC BUSINESS CORPORATION to help with your compliance efforts and includes no warranty as to its suitability for any particular task. It is only our opinion based on our experience and should not be considered legal advice.