A change order records how agreed work, price or timing changes after a quote has been accepted. For electrical work, that might mean adding lights, moving an appliance or responding to wiring that could not be assessed before demolition. The useful question is not simply “Is this extra?” It is “What changed, why, and what does the revised agreement cover?”
This guide helps homeowners in Delta and the Lower Mainland discuss changes clearly. The examples are illustrations, not Hundel prices, standard charges or terms for a particular job.
Three situations that can change the scope
You request something different. Six pot lights become eight, a charger moves to another wall, or the kitchen layout changes after wiring has started. The change may affect labour, materials and work already completed.
Equipment changes. A different appliance, heater, fan or EV charger may need a revised installation. Send the final model information before ordering equipment or asking the electrician to proceed.
An existing condition is uncovered. Opening a finished wall may reveal wiring or access conditions that differ from the quote’s stated assumptions. Ask the electrician to explain the finding, how it affects the agreed work and the available options. An unexpected condition does not, by itself, explain every additional charge.
Read the original quote first
Find the included quantities, installation locations, equipment selections, access assumptions and exclusions. Check whether an item was included, optional, an allowance or specifically excluded. An allowance is a budget provision; ask how the actual cost will be reconciled. Do not assume the words “estimate” or “fixed price” answer every question without reading the conditions.
Our electrical quote-comparison guide explains how to establish the original scope before comparing prices.
What should a written change record include?
The original work: identify the relevant quote, drawing or item.
The change: state what is added, removed or relocated, including quantities and equipment.
The reason: distinguish an owner request from a discovered condition or revised equipment requirement.
The price effect: show additions and credits, taxes, and any amount that remains provisional. For hourly work, clarify rates, material charges and how time will be recorded.
The timing: explain effects on ordering, inspections, other trades and return visits.
The approval: identify who can authorize the change and keep the written approval with the quote.
Example: adding lights after the quote
Original scope: six agreed fixtures in a marked layout, with one dimming arrangement.
Requested change: add two fixtures and create a separately controlled lighting group.
What needs clarification: the revised layout, fixtures, control compatibility, additional wiring, any ceiling openings and who repairs them. Ask for the extra cost, any credit for work removed, and the scheduling effect before authorizing the revised work.
Adding two fixtures is not necessarily just two times a previously advertised per-light price. The route, switching and stage of construction can change the work. See our finished-ceiling pot-light guide for access and finishing questions.
What if the full cost is not yet known?
Separate investigation from the repair or installation decision. Ask what the initial investigation covers, its pricing basis and when you will receive an update. If a spending limit or approval checkpoint is agreed, put it in writing. Avoid an open-ended “do whatever is needed” instruction when you want a defined budget.
Where an immediate hazard is identified, ask the electrician to explain the steps needed to make the situation safe and distinguish those steps from optional or further project work. Do not inspect exposed wiring yourself.
Keep one current record
Save the original quote, revised drawings, approved changes and invoices together. When work is removed or substituted, ask whether a credit applies. Confirm changes with the person responsible for authorizing them, especially when a builder, homeowner and other trades are involved.
The federal Office of Consumer Affairs recommends comparing renovation estimates using the same specifications and reviewing written responsibilities and costs. Its home-renovation guidance is a useful companion to this practical checklist.
Discuss your electrical scope before work starts
For renovation electrical work, lighting or a larger home upgrade, send the latest plans and equipment details. Hundel Electric is based in North Delta and has served the Lower Mainland since 2007. Call (604) 358-5549 to speak directly with an electrician, or request a quote.