Field Changes: How to Make Smart Decisions
Whether you’re an architect, a GC, or an owner [or an engineer or other consultant], you know about field changes…those moments onsite when you have to decide whether to stay the course with what’s shown in the drawings, or make a change.
Sometimes you don’t have a choice - some new and unforeseen condition was uncovered, a material or product is no longer available, the inspector has changed their mind about something and you have to pivot.
But many times, you do have a choice…and in the heat of battle, it can be difficult to know what the right move is.
Here are four common scenarios, followed by some thoughts on how to deal with each one:
1. You're the owner. The contractor suggests substituting a cheaper material than what's shown in the drawings. Do you go with it?
2. You're the GC. The architect suggests a change that the owner loves - let's say, to add a whole bunch of built-ins to the project - but those items aren't reflected in the budget. Do you go with it?
3. You're the architect. During framing, you see several opportunities to change spaces to make them better than what was originally designed. Do you bring it up?
4. You're the owner. The architect and contractor come to you with a change that will add cost to the project, but will also add value - something like, hey, we found a way to reconfigure the mechanical rooms in all the units so that you'll have additional livable space in each unit. Do you do it?
Ok, let’s dive into the details and some answers!
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