What is a common basis for contractors seeking change orders related to site conditions?

Change orders are commonly sought by contractors when unexpected site conditions arise that affect the scope of work outlined in the original contract. One significant basis for these requests relates to "Acts of God," which encompass natural disasters or unforeseen environmental circumstances such as floods, earthquakes, or severe weather conditions. These events can alter construction sites in ways that are unpredictable and outside the control of the contractor, necessitating modifications to the original plan or additional work that wasn't anticipated.

The reason this is a valid basis for change orders is that such conditions can significantly impact the safety, feasibility, and completion timeline of a project. For instance, if a flood occurs, it may require the contractor to alter the project's drainage plans or to mitigate damage from water. As these events are not a result of the contractor's actions or decisions, they are typically grounds for financial compensation through a change order to cover the additional costs incurred.

In contrast, high labor costs, low material availability, and owner negligence do not typically provide a solid foundation for change orders. High labor costs often reflect broader market conditions or economic factors but are generally considered part of the contractor's risk. Low material availability can affect the project timeline, yet it is usually expected that contractors account for potential supply chain issues. Owner negligence