Remodeling your home is an exciting journey, but it can sometimes come with surprises. You may encounter unforeseen issues during construction or realize you want to make changes after the project has already begun. When these situations arise, contractors will issue what’s called an Extra Work Order (EWO) to account for additional tasks and costs.
For homeowners, managing these extra work orders effectively is key to keeping your project on track and within budget. In this blog post, we’ll explain what Extra Work Orders are, when they might come up, and how you can handle them to make your remodeling experience as smooth as possible.
What is an Extra Work Order (EWO)?
An Extra Work Order is a formal document used to request and approve work that goes beyond the original contract’s scope. Whether it’s adding extra square footage, upgrading materials, or addressing unexpected structural issues, the EWO allows both you and your contractor to define the new work clearly and agree on the costs and timeline adjustments.
When Might an Extra Work Order Be Needed?
There are several common reasons why an Extra Work Order might be necessary:
1. Unforeseen Conditions
During the demolition phase, your contractor might uncover hidden issues like mold, water damage, or faulty wiring that must be addressed. These are problems that couldn’t have been anticipated until the walls were opened.
2. Code Compliance
In older homes, certain elements may not meet modern building codes. Your contractor may need to make modifications to ensure your home complies with safety and building regulations, which could require extra work.
3. Change Requests
It’s not uncommon for homeowners to decide they want to make changes to the original design once work is underway. Whether it’s choosing higher-end materials or adding a custom feature, these changes will typically result in extra costs.
4. Design or Material Adjustments
Sometimes, the products or materials specified in the original contract are unavailable or need to be substituted due to supply chain issues. If these substitutions involve cost increases, an EWO will be necessary.
How Homeowners Can Manage Extra Work Orders Effectively
As a homeowner, managing extra work orders requires clear communication, understanding the process, and making informed decisions. Here’s how you can stay on top of EWOs during your remodeling project:
1. Set Expectations Early
At the very beginning of the project, talk with your contractor about the possibility of extra work orders. Ask them to explain their process for handling EWOs, including how they will notify you, how costs are estimated, and how changes will impact the project’s timeline. By understanding how EWOs work from the start, you’ll be better prepared to handle them if they come up and avoid feeling blindsided by unexpected costs.
2. Stay Involved and Communicate Regularly
Regular communication with your contractor is key to managing any remodeling project smoothly. If issues arise that may require extra work, your contractor should notify you immediately. Stay involved by asking questions about what the issue is, why the extra work is necessary, and what your options are.
The more informed you are, the easier it will be to make decisions that keep your project on track.
3. Understand the Costs and Impact on the Timeline
Before approving any extra work, make sure you receive a **detailed estimate** of the additional costs, including labor and materials. Ask your contractor to break down where each expense comes from so you can see exactly how the extra work will affect your budget.
In addition to costs, ask how the EWO will impact the project’s timeline. Will this extra work add a few days or weeks to the completion date? It’s important to have a clear understanding of both the financial and time implications before moving forward
Tip: If the cost of the extra work is significant, you may want to revisit your overall budget to see where you can adjust other aspects of the project if needed.
4. Request Written Documentation
Always insist on receiving written documentation for any extra work. This should include:
- A clear description of the additional work to be done.
- The total estimated cost.
- Any changes to the project’s timeline. – Your written approval.
Written documentation helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures there’s a clear agreement in place before any extra work begins. It also serves as a legal safeguard in case disputes arise down the road.
5. Don’t Rush Decisions
When an Extra Work Order comes up, it can feel urgent but try not to rush your decision. Take a little time to consider your options. Can the issue wait? Are there alternatives? Would it be better to adjust your budget and timeline now, or handle it later? Having a thoughtful approach to EWOs helps you manage costs and stay in control of the project.
Tip: It’s always a good idea to ask for multiple options when dealing with extra work. For instance, if a problem arises with plumbing, your contractor may have a quick-fix option and a long-term solution that could vary in cost and effectiveness.
6. Keep an Emergency Budget for Extra Work
One of the best ways to manage extra work during a remodel is to plan for it ahead of time. Set aside a contingency fund (usually 10-15% of your overall project budget) to cover unforeseen expenses. That way, if extra work orders come up, you’ll be financially prepared and won’t need to scramble to adjust your budget.
Why Managing Extra Work Orders Matters
Handling Extra Work Orders properly is important for maintaining the success of your remodeling project. Poorly managed EWOs can lead to budget overruns, timeline delays, and frustration on both sides. However, when they are managed correctly, EWOs can actually improve the outcome of the project by ensuring that hidden issues are addressed, or design changes are made, resulting in a better final product.
The key is communication and documentation—making sure you and your contractor are on the same page and that all extra work is clearly agreed upon before it begins.
Extra Work Orders are a normal part of most remodeling projects, but they don’t have to be stressful. By understanding the process, asking the right questions, and staying organized, you can manage EWOs effectively and keep your project running smoothly. Clear communication with your contractor and careful attention to costs and timelines will ensure that even with extra work, your remodeling experience remains positive and on track.
If you’re planning a remodeling project or have questions about handling Extra Work Orders, reach out to us at BEST Techs Contracting Design Build Remodel Inc. We’re here to help you navigate every aspect of your home renovation with confidence!
