Allows government to unilaterally order changes to contract scope (for fixed-price contracts).
Applicability: Required in all fixed-price contracts.
Key Requirements
Be prepared for government-ordered changes to specifications, delivery dates, or requirements
Submit change order claims within specified timeframe (typically 30 days)
Document impact of changes on cost, schedule, and performance
Negotiate equitable adjustment to contract price and schedule
Common Issues & Pitfalls
Not documenting change order entitlement contemporaneously
Delaying change order claims beyond the 30-day submission window
Underestimating impact of changes on cost and schedule
Not maintaining clear before/after documentation for changes
Contractor Guidance for Your Bid
Government can change fixed-price contracts unilaterally. You're entitled to compensation for reasonable cost and schedule impacts. The key is documenting impact immediately when changes occur—don't wait until project end to submit claims. Track all change-related costs separately. Without contemporaneous documentation, you'll have trouble proving impact.