Change Orders

There are a few key reasons change orders can arise during a construction project:

1. Unforeseen Conditions

Sometimes, issues hidden behind walls, underground, or within existing structures aren’t discovered until work begins. Even with detailed plans, surprises can lead to necessary changes.

A good general contractor will proactively review potential areas where unforeseen conditions could occur or where it’s not possible to confidently price the work upfront. As the homeowner, it’s your responsibility to evaluate these risks and decide if you’re comfortable with the financial implications of a worst-case scenario.

2. Owner-Initiated Changes

Homeowners or developers may choose to upgrade materials, adjust layouts, or add features after work has already started—resulting in extra costs and time. These changes can increase the project’s scope and often extend its duration.

Many clients don’t realize how seemingly small changes can have major cost impacts. For example:
Imagine deciding to add an electrical outlet near the toilet for a bidet or electric toilet. If this request is made early, the cost might be a few hundred dollars. But if drywall and paint are already finished—or if the nearest circuit is fully loaded—the cost could jump into the thousands due to the need for new electrical runs, patching, and repainting.

3. Incomplete or Inaccurate Plans

If the construction drawings or specifications are missing details or contain errors, contractors may issue change orders to correct or complete the work.

A qualified contractor will submit RFIs (Requests for Information) or ask clarifying questions during bidding to resolve any unclear parts of the plans. But no contractor, architect, or engineer is perfect. If the architect or structural engineer left critical details out of the plans, and resolving those gaps adds work or materials, it’s not the contractor’s responsibility to cover those added costs.

These types of design omission change orders are often the most contentious. Designers or clients may argue that a contractor should have known or inferred what was intended, even if the plans weren’t explicit. Contractors, however, will argue it’s not their role to make design decisions—that’s why licensed architects and engineers are hired.

Each of these cases needs to be evaluated individually to determine who should bear the added costs (if anyone).

4. Bad Bidding Practices

A final common reason for change orders is bad bidding practices, and unfortunately, it’s one of the reasons general contractors sometimes get a bad reputation. Some contractors intentionally bid a project as low as possible just to be the “low bidder,” knowing that once they secure the contract, they can issue change orders under the guise of unforeseen conditions, owner changes, or incomplete plans.

This is why it’s so important to vet and interview your general contractor before hiring them. A reputable licensed general contractor will be upfront about potential change orders and cost impacts before the contract is signed, so everyone understands where additional costs might arise. Transparency at this stage helps avoid surprises and keeps the project relationship strong.

Background Check

So, you’ve got a plan for your next construction project in San Diego. The designs are finalized, the permits are approved, the budget’s set—and now you’re ready to hire a contractor. This is the most exciting—and the most nerve-wracking—step in the process. You’re just one signature away from breaking ground… but also one decision away from potential delays, budget overruns, or poor workmanship.

Finding the right licensed general contractor in San Diego is critical to keeping your project—whether it’s a home remodel, tenant improvement, or ground-up commercial build—on time, on budget, and up to code.

At Presidio Construction, we help homeowners and business owners navigate this process every day. Here’s what you need to know before signing that contract:

1. Start with an Interview

The first step in choosing the right contractor is conducting an interview—ideally in person. While this shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision, trust your instincts. If something feels off or you get a bad gut feeling about the person you’re about to enter a contract with… trust your gut.

2. Review the Scope Thoroughly

During your meeting, go over the project scope in detail. Have an open conversation about your vision, and ask the contractor what challenges or issues they anticipate based on their experience. A good general contractor in San Diego will help identify potential pitfalls and clarify expectations upfront.

3. Look Beyond the Lowest Bid

My grandfather, an old developer in the Bay Area, used to say:

“If you want to know what a project really costs, take the three lowest bids and add them together.”

Sure, it’s an exaggeration—but it makes a key point. The lowest bidder isn’t always the best choice. You need to evaluate what each bid actually includes or excludes. Otherwise, you might face unexpected change orders and added costs down the line.

Hiring the right general contractor in San Diego makes all the difference in achieving a smooth, successful construction project. Contact Presidio Construction today to learn how we can help bring your vision to life—on time, on budget, and built to last.