A change order is a written agreement that officially modifies the original roofing contract after work has begun. It documents changes to the project’s scope, materials, labor, schedule, or pricing, ensuring that both the contractor and the property owner understand and approve the revised terms before additional work proceeds.
For commercial roofing projects, change orders are common and often necessary. They help maintain transparency, protect both parties from disputes, and ensure the roofing system is installed correctly despite unexpected conditions or evolving project requirements. At Shieldline Roofing, every change order is clearly explained, documented, and approved before any additional work is performed.
Why Are Change Orders Necessary?
No matter how thoroughly a roofing project is planned, certain conditions cannot be fully identified until the existing roof is removed or construction begins. Hidden structural issues, unforeseen weather damage, or updated building requirements may require modifications to the original project plan.
A properly documented change order ensures that:
- The reason for the change is clearly explained.
- Additional work is fully described.
- Material substitutions or upgrades are identified.
- Any changes to project costs are transparent.
- Timeline adjustments are documented.
- Both the contractor and property owner provide written approval.
Without a formal change order, misunderstandings regarding costs, responsibilities, or project expectations can arise later.
Common Situations That May Require a Change Order
1. Hidden Roof Deck Damage
One of the most common reasons for a change order occurs after the old roofing system is removed. Contractors may discover deteriorated plywood, rusted metal decking, water-damaged insulation, or structural components that were impossible to inspect beforehand.
Because these components must be repaired before installing the new roofing system, additional work becomes necessary.
2. Additional Moisture Damage
Moisture can travel beneath roofing membranes and insulation without visible signs from the surface. During demolition, saturated insulation or extensive water intrusion may be discovered.
Replacing these damaged materials is essential to ensure the new roof performs properly and maintains manufacturer warranty eligibility.
3. Material Upgrades
Building owners sometimes decide to upgrade roofing materials after construction has started. Examples include:
- Switching to a thicker roofing membrane.
- Adding high-performance insulation.
- Installing reflective cool roofing materials.
- Upgrading flashing components.
- Adding enhanced wind or hail protection.
These improvements typically increase project costs but can provide greater long-term durability and energy efficiency.
4. Code Compliance Requirements
Local building codes occasionally require additional work that wasn’t originally anticipated. For example, inspectors may require:
- Additional insulation to meet current energy codes.
- Improved drainage systems.
- Updated flashing details.
- Structural reinforcements.
- Enhanced wind uplift protection.
A change order documents these mandatory modifications before work continues.
5. Owner-Requested Changes
Property owners may request changes after construction begins, such as:
- Installing additional roof drains.
- Adding skylights or rooftop equipment curbs.
- Expanding the roofing project to adjacent areas.
- Upgrading roof coatings.
- Changing insulation thickness.
These requests are documented through a change order to establish the revised project scope.
What Information Should a Change Order Include?
A professional roofing change order should contain all essential project details, including:
- A description of the additional or revised work.
- The reason the change is necessary.
- Updated labor and material costs.
- Any adjustments to the project schedule.
- Revised contract value.
- Signatures from both the contractor and property owner.
- Date of approval.
This documentation creates a clear record that protects everyone involved.
Can a Change Order Delay the Project?
Sometimes, yes. If additional materials must be ordered, structural repairs are needed, or inspections are required, the completion date may need to be adjusted.
However, addressing these issues immediately is far better than ignoring hidden problems that could lead to roof failures, leaks, warranty issues, or expensive repairs in the future.
An experienced commercial roofing contractor will communicate potential delays promptly and provide realistic expectations for project completion.
Best Practices for Managing Roofing Change Orders
Building owners should never feel pressured to approve unexpected work without understanding why it’s needed. Reputable roofing contractors provide photographs, inspection findings, and detailed explanations whenever a change order is recommended.
Before signing a change order, property owners should:
- Review the reason for the modification.
- Understand how it affects the total project cost.
- Confirm any changes to the project schedule.
- Ask questions about available alternatives.
- Keep a signed copy for future reference.
Clear communication throughout the process helps avoid disputes and ensures the roofing system meets both performance expectations and applicable building standards.
Shieldline Roofing’s Expert Opinion
At Shieldline Roofing, we view a change order as a formal way to document work that falls outside the original roofing scope. Hidden deck damage, unexpected moisture, code-required corrections, or owner-requested changes can trigger one. We recommend documenting the added work, cost, and schedule impact in writing before proceeding whenever conditions allow.
Our Key Insights
The American Institute of Architects emphasizes that changes to construction work should be documented in writing, including adjustments to the contract sum or completion time. For roofing, that written record helps both the owner and contractor clearly establish what changed, why it changed, and what the additional cost covers.
Why Professional Documentation Matters
Change orders are a standard part of many commercial roofing projects—not a sign of poor planning or contractor error. Roofing systems often conceal hidden conditions that simply cannot be evaluated until demolition begins.
Working with an experienced commercial roofing contractor that documents every modification protects your investment, maintains project transparency, and ensures your roof is built according to current codes, manufacturer specifications, and industry best practices.
When properly managed, a change order allows the project to move forward with complete clarity, helping building owners make informed decisions while ensuring the finished roofing system delivers long-term performance, safety, and value. Learn More
