How should changes made during construction be documented?

Documenting changes made during construction is a critical process for ensuring that all modifications are formally recognized and tracked. The most effective way to manage this is through change orders combined with updated drawings.

Change orders serve as official records that detail the alterations, including the reasons for the changes, costs associated, and the parties involved in the modification. This formal documentation protects all parties by providing clarity on what was changed and serves as a legal record if discrepancies arise later.

In conjunction with change orders, updated drawings are essential as they visually represent the modifications made to the original plans. This helps ensure that all team members, contractors, and stakeholders have the most current information on the project's scope and specifications, thereby minimizing misunderstandings and potential disputes.

The other options provided do not meet the necessary standards for documenting changes during construction. Relying on verbal agreements lacks traceability and accountability, while alteration sketches alone do not provide sufficient context or formalization. Conducting site meetings, while important for communication, does not replace the need for documented evidence of changes. Together, change orders and updated drawings create a comprehensive and legally defensible method for tracking changes, fostering clarity and efficiency on the construction site.