TCFP Plans Examiner Practice Test

What is a change order in construction management?

1. A delay in project completion

2. A request for project budget increase

3. A client's written order authorizing changes in the construction work

4. A directive to halt construction activities

The correct answer is: A client's written order authorizing changes in the construction work

A change order in construction management is best defined as a client's written order that authorizes changes in the construction work. It serves as a formal document that details modifications to the original construction contract. This can include alterations in the scope of work, adjustments in costs, changes in materials, or extensions of time needed to complete the project. Change orders are crucial for managing the project effectively, as they provide a legal record of what has been agreed upon between the client and the contractor regarding changes. They help to ensure that all parties are on the same page and that any deviations from the original plan are documented, allowing for clear communication and accountability. In contrast, other options do not accurately represent a change order. A delay in project completion does not imply a formal change to the work itself; it simply reflects scheduling issues. A request for a project budget increase could be related to change orders but is not specifically a change order on its own, as it does not denote the authorization of changes in work. A directive to halt construction activities is also unrelated; it entails stopping work rather than modifying it. Thus, the definition of a change order distinctly aligns with the written authorization for changes in the construction work.