Change orders are one of the most misunderstood aspects of veterinary construction. Many owners view them as a sign of poor planning or contractor issues, but in reality, change orders are often the result of misalignment early in the project.
Understanding why change orders happen—and how to reduce them—can save significant time, money, and stress.
What Is a Change Order?
A change order is a formal modification to the original construction contract. It typically affects cost, schedule, or scope and occurs when something changes after construction has begun.
Common Causes of Change Orders in Veterinary Projects
Some of the most frequent drivers include:
- Incomplete or evolving drawings
- Late equipment selections or upgrades
- Scope gaps between trades
- Landlord or building condition surprises
- Changes in clinical vision during construction
Many of these issues originate well before the first day on site.
What Can Be Controlled—and What Can’t
Not all change orders are avoidable. Existing building conditions, code requirements, or landlord constraints may require adjustments once walls are opened. However, a large percentage of change orders stem from decisions that could have been finalized earlier.
How to Reduce Change Orders
Veterinarians can significantly reduce change orders by:
- Finalizing equipment selections early
- Ensuring drawings are detailed and coordinated
- Aligning budget, scope, and expectations upfront
- Engaging project management early in the process
Change orders should not be viewed as failures—but they should be minimized wherever possible. The more clarity established before construction begins, the fewer surprises you will face along the way.
