Change order template (free example you can copy)
Published 2026-11-02 · SignedChange Guides
A change order is a short document that records a change to an agreed job: what's being added, removed or modified, how it affects the price and schedule, and that both sides agree. In construction it's standard practice. For freelancers, small agencies and service businesses it's just as useful, and far too rarely used.
Below is a simple template you can copy, followed by tips for getting it signed quickly.
When you need a change order
Use a change order whenever the work, price or timeline changes after the original agreement. Typical examples: the client adds a room to a renovation, asks for extra pages on a website, changes materials, moves the deadline earlier, or removes part of the work and wants a lower price.
If the change isn't written down, you're relying on memory. That's how disputes start; see client won't pay for extra work.
Change order template
CHANGE ORDER No. [__]
Date: [date]
Original agreement: [name/reference and date of original contract or quote]
Business / provider: [name, contact]
Client: [name, contact]
Project / job: [address or project name]
Description of change: [What is added, removed or changed, specifically.]
Reason for change: [Requested by client / site condition / other.]
Price impact: Original price $[__]; this change +/− $[__]; new total $[__].
Payment terms for this change: [e.g. due on completion / 50% upfront.]
Schedule impact: [e.g. +3 working days; new completion date __.]
All other terms of the original agreement remain unchanged.
Provider signature / date: ______
Client signature / date: ______
Tips for filling it in
- Be specific. Quantities, sizes, materials, number of pages or revisions.
- Always state the money. Even if the change is free, write "$0 (no charge)".
- Show the new total. It prevents surprises on the final invoice.
- Number your change orders. CO-1, CO-2… make it easy to refer back.
- Sign before you start the extra work. This is the most important rule.
Getting it signed quickly
The biggest obstacle to change orders is friction. If you have to print, meet, sign and scan, you'll skip it for small changes, and small changes add up. A digital change order the client signs on their phone removes that excuse.
With SignedChange you pick a template, fill in the change and price, and send a signing link by WhatsApp or email. The client signs on their own phone and both of you get the same dated PDF. Your first 3 documents are free; see pricing for more.
Change order vs contract amendment
They're closely related. A change order usually adjusts the work, price or timing within an existing project. A contract amendment changes the terms of the agreement itself, such as payment terms or duration. Our contract amendment template covers that case.
Change order examples by industry
- Building and renovation: "Replace standard tiles in bathroom with client-supplied porcelain tiles; additional labour +$180; +1 day."
- Web design: "Add a 6th page (Testimonials) with up to 6 quotes supplied by client; +$120; delivery moves from 10 to 13 June."
- Photography: "Extend event coverage from 4 to 6 hours; +$200; 40 extra edited photos."
- Cleaning services: "Add inside-oven and fridge cleaning to the monthly service; +$25 per visit from 1 July."
- Employment: "Working hours change from 8:00–16:00 to 9:00–17:00 from 1 August; pay unchanged."
Notice each example states exactly what changes, the money, and the time impact. That's all a change order needs. If you'd like these laid out for you, the templates in the app cover freelancers, contractors, landlords and agencies.
Add a change order clause to your contracts
Tell clients upfront that changes need a signed change order. A short clause in your original agreement makes the process feel normal rather than confrontational. Example wording is in our article on the scope creep contract clause.
Record your next change in 60 seconds
Describe the change, set the price, and send a signing link by WhatsApp or email. Both sides get the same signed, dated PDF. Your first 3 documents are free — no account needed.
Create a signed change record free Browse templates See pricing
Frequently asked questions
Who should sign a change order?
Both parties to the original agreement: you (or your business) and the client, or someone authorised to sign for them.
Can a change order reduce the price?
Yes. If work is removed, record the reduction the same way, with the new total.
Is a change order legally binding?
A signed change order is clear evidence of what both sides agreed. Whether and how it's enforceable depends on your country and the original contract, so check with a local professional for large amounts.
What if the client approves verbally but won't sign?
Confirm the change in writing anyway and ask them to reply "agreed". Then consider whether to start the work before you have a signature.
Related guides
- Is a verbal agreement legally binding?
- How to get a client to sign off on changes
- What to do when a client changes the project scope
This article is general information, not legal advice. Laws differ by country and situation; for important or high-value matters, speak to a qualified local professional.