Which of the following correctly describes a valid change order authorization?

• A. Oral approval from the client.
• B. Only the contractor's word.
• C. No approval needed.
• D. Written authorization from owner or architect.

Answer: (D)

A change order must be formalized in writing and approved by the person who has the authority to authorize changes on the project. In most contracts, that authority sits with the owner or the owner’s architect (acting as the owner’s representative). Oral approvals or relying on the contractor’s word alone lack a traceable record and can lead to disputes about what was agreed, how much more it will cost, and how long it will take. A written change order provides a clear description of the added or altered work, the updated price, and the revised schedule, and it’s signed by the owner or architect to become part of the contract. Because it creates enforceable, auditable evidence of the agreement, written authorization from the owner or architect is the proper form of change authorization.