What it means
Change orders come from several sources: a client request, a design change, a code requirement found during review, or a hidden condition discovered once walls or ceilings are opened. Each change order states what is changing, what it costs and how it affects the schedule.
They can add cost, remove cost, or both. A credit for deleted scope is a change order too.
Why it matters
Change orders are normal on construction projects, but unmanaged ones are the main reason final costs drift from the budget. The best protection is a clear scope up front, early design coordination, and a fast, honest process for pricing changes when they do arise.
Clients should also know that late changes cost more than early ones, because work may already be ordered or installed.
How HSM handles it
HSM prices changes promptly and breaks the cost down so you can see labour, materials and any impact on the schedule. We confirm the change in writing before work proceeds.
Because we self-perform electrical, mechanical, interior systems, carpentry and other trades, we price most changes from our own crews instead of waiting on subcontractor quotes. That usually means faster answers and fewer surprises. It also means the people pricing the change know the actual site.
We try to prevent changes through pre-construction work, including site review and coordination of drawings, so the changes that remain are real decisions and not avoidable gaps.