TapeAndFloat.comDrywall change order template
A drywall change order is a short written agreement that adds or changes work on an existing contract, with a price and schedule effect, signed before the crew starts. This free template covers the 5 things every change order needs and fits on 1 page.
Most unbilled extras start as a text: "can y'all do the garage too?" A change order turns that into a price, a written OK and an invoice line. Copy this, fill in the brackets, and get a "yes" in writing before the crew starts.
The five things every change order needs
- What changed (scope, location, finish level)
- Who asked, and when
- Price (or time-and-materials rate) and effect on schedule
- A written approval: signature, email reply, or a text "yes"
- Change order number, tied to the original job/PO
Template (copy and paste)
CHANGE ORDER #[CO number] Company: [Your company] | Phone: [phone] | Email: [email] To: [GC / customer name] Date: [date] Job: [job name / address] Original contract/PO: [#] Description of change: [e.g., Hang and finish garage walls and ceiling, approx. 620 sq ft, 1/2" board, Level 4 finish] Requested by: [name], on [date], via [text / email / in person] Price: [ ] Fixed price $[amount] [ ] Time and materials at $[rate]/hr + materials Schedule impact: [+N days / none] Payment: added to [next draw / invoice #], due [terms] Original contract amount: $[ ] Previous change orders: $[ ] This change order: $[ ] New contract amount: $[ ] Approved by (GC/customer): __________________ Date: ________ Approved by (us): __________________ Date: ________ Work on this change starts after written approval.
Download the printable change order form (PDF, free, no sign-up) Same fields as above, one page, with signature lines. Versión en español.
Text-message version (when the GC asks on site)
Hi [name], confirming the extra: [garage walls + ceiling, Level 4]. Price $[amount], adds [1 day]. Reply YES to approve and we'll add it to the next invoice as CO #[number].
En español: "Hola [nombre], confirmo el trabajo extra: [descripción]. Precio $[monto], agrega [1 día]. Responda SÍ para aprobar y lo agregamos a la próxima factura como orden de cambio #[número]."
How to word it so it comes back signed: how to write a drywall change order the GC will actually sign.
Track them all in one place: download the free drywall office tracker (flags unsigned and unbilled change orders).
After it's approved
- Screenshot or save the approval with the job.
- Add the line to the very next invoice, not "at the end."
- Unpaid change orders count for lien notices too; see the Texas lien deadline guide.
TapeAndFloat flags any change with no written approval or no invoice line. Join the free pilot.
Frequently asked questions
Does a text message count as an approved change order?
It can help, but check your subcontract first; many require a signed change order. At minimum, keep a written reply that names the work and the price, then follow it with the signed form.
When should I send the change order?
Before the crew starts the extra work. Once the work is done, you lose most of your leverage to get it signed and paid.
How do I make sure the change order gets billed?
Put the approved amount on your very next invoice or pay app as its own line. The free office tracker flags change orders that are approved but not yet billed.