Top 5 Causes of Renovation Change Orders in Edmonton (and How to Prevent Them)
Avoid costly surprises by learning the most common reasons for renovation change orders in Edmonton — and the steps you can take to prevent them.
You start your renovation with dreams of a perfect finish. Then a change order strikes — adding stress, costs, and delays. Many Edmonton homeowners face this challenge, but the good news is that most change orders can be mitigated. By understanding the top five causes, you can prevent unexpected expenses and keep your renovation on track. With clear planning and a transparent contractor like Nuvo Construction Edmonton, you can take control and avoid unnecessary headaches. Let’s get started.
Understanding Renovation Change Orders
What They Are
A renovation change order is a formal amendment to your original contract. It modifies the scope, cost, or timeline of your project. These changes often arise from hidden issues, shifting design choices, or external factors.
Why They Matter
Change orders can quickly inflate your budget — often by 10% or more — and extend project timelines. They also add stress for homeowners who thought everything was already set. By understanding the impact of change orders, you’ll be better prepared to prevent them and stay in control.
For a closer look at what’s included in most renovations, see our Nuvo Construction Renovation Services.
Top 5 Causes of Renovation Change Orders
1. Design Changes and Modifications
Design changes are the leading cause of change orders. Homeowners often request upgrades or layout tweaks once the project is underway. While these improvements can enhance the finished space, they nearly always add cost and time.
Contractors may also suggest design modifications if problems arise or better solutions emerge during construction. The best way to avoid this is to have a detailed vision and plan in place before work begins.
2. Unforeseen Site Conditions
Hidden structural or site issues are another common trigger. Tearing down a wall(s) might reveal outdated wiring, insufficient framing, or even mould or asbestos. Outdoor projects may run into poor soil conditions or drainage problems.
Pre-renovation inspections help reduce these risks. While they won’t catch everything, they give you and your contractor a clearer picture before work starts. For permit and inspection requirements, check the City of Edmonton’s Permits & Development page.
3. Incomplete Plans or Specifications
Vague or incomplete plans often create confusion and extra work. If specifications for finishes, appliances, or layouts are unclear, the result may not match your expectations — forcing costly mid-project changes.
Detailed drawings and specifications prevent these problems. Take the time to finalize selections and review plans with your contractor to avoid surprises.
4. External Factors
Material shortages, supply chain delays, and regulatory changes can all lead to change orders. While these are outside your control, and sometimes ours, they can affect both budgets and timelines.
The best approach is to build flexibility into your plan and discuss alternatives in advance. A transparent contractor will help you plan for these possibilities and mitigate these risks. To see how active construction trends may affect material availability, review Edmonton’s Weekly Building Permit Report.
5. Homeowner–Contractor Miscommunication
Miscommunication is a frequent culprit. If expectations aren’t aligned or updates aren’t clearl
y shared, small mistakes can snowball into costly change orders.
Regular check-ins, clear written communication, and open dialogue reduce this risk. At Nuvo Construction, we prioritize collaborative project management so everyone stays on the same page. Learn more about our commitment to transparency by reading our Company Blog.
How to Prevent Renovation Change Orders
Transparent Planning
Define your goals and expectations upfront. Create a comprehensive plan with drawings, material lists, and a realistic timeline. Review everything with your contractor for alignment before signing.
Clear Communication
Set up weekly check-ins and put important decisions in writing. Encourage open discussion about potential issues so they can be addressed early and quickly. Healthy communication habits contribute strongly to a successful project.
For resources on communication and renovation planning best practices, see the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Renovation Resources.
Detailed Contracts
A thorough contract is your strongest protection. It should outline scope, materials, specifications, and a process for handling changes. Allowances for uncertain costs provide flexibility while keeping your budget under control.
At Nuvo Construction, our contracts are transparent and detailed, giving homeowners clarity and confidence from the start.
Start Your Renovation With Confidence
Nuvo Construction helps homeowners across Edmonton and the surrounding area prevent costly change orders through proactive planning and transparent contracts. Download our Change-Order Checklist to keep your renovation on time and on budget, or book a consultation today to get started.
Service areas include Edmonton, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Leduc, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Morinville, Sturgeon County, Strathcona County, Leduc County, and Parkland County.
