Construction Change Directive vs. Change Order
This is a CE question from the NCARB multidivision practice exam. Why would the correct response not be to issue a change order since the question does not state that the contractor disagrees with the request? I thought construction change directives were only for when the owner and contractor are at odds on a decision.
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CCD isn't exclusively used due to a conflict in agreement between the owner and contractor. Rather, it can also be used to expedite a task where "the owner is adamant" on their request and getting it done sooner/keeping on schedule with changes, and dealing with the costs associated after the revisions to field work.
It is confusing, as it could be assumed that all parties will sign off on a change order. However, this is a request that may need to forego a CO process to keep construction moving and on schedule. (AIA article on CCD vs CO for reference)
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Great question! The key factor here is timing and certainty - a CCD is actually the right choice in this scenario.
Per AIA Document A201-2017, a CCD is appropriate when a change must take place regardless of time or cost impacts. In this case:
- The owner is adamant about the change
- The work impacts the critical path (already framed walls)
- Immediate action is needed to keep the project moving
While change orders require agreement from all three parties (owner, architect, contractor) on scope, cost, and time impacts, CCDs let work proceed immediately while details get sorted out later.
CCDs aren't just for when there's disagreement - they're actually a project acceleration tool when you need work to happen NOW and can't wait for full change order processing.
I just covered this topic in depth on a recent Architect Exam Podcast - check it out for more strategies on handling contract modifications: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/construction-change-orders/
Michael Riscica
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