Change order vs change directive vs supplemental instruction
Three CCDC 2 instruments for changing or clarifying the work. Which one applies depends on whether price or time change, and whether they are agreed yet.
| Aspect | Supplemental instruction | Change directive | Change order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Issued by | Consultant | Consultant, signed by the owner | Signed by owner and contractor |
| Changes price or time? | No | Yes, but not yet agreed | Yes, agreed |
| When used | Clarification consistent with contract intent | Work must proceed before price or time is settled | Price and time adjustment agreed |
| What happens next | Contractor proceeds (or notifies if it disagrees there is no impact) | Valued later, then recorded in a change order | Becomes part of the contract |
| AIA equivalent | Minor change / architect's supplemental instruction | Construction change directive | Change order |
The practical takeaway
If an RFI answer costs money or time, it is not a supplemental instruction. Ask for a change directive or a change order before you proceed.
Full definitions
- Change order — A written amendment to the construction contract, signed by the owner and contractor, recording an agreed change in the work together with any adjustment to the contract price and time.
- Change directive — A written instruction from the consultant, signed by the owner, directing the contractor to proceed with a change to the work before the price and time adjustments have been agreed.
- Supplemental instruction — An instruction from the consultant — usually drawings, specifications or a written note — that clarifies or adds detail to the work without changing the contract price or contract time.
- Request for information (RFI) — A formal written question from the contractor to the design consultant asking for clarification of the contract documents — typically about design intent, an apparent omission or a conflict.
Updated October 14, 2026. Sources are listed on each linked definition.