Change in Services and Compensation - 242

ConsensusDocs 242 is a specialized change order form designed to manage modifications to the scope, schedule, and compensation for design services provided by a Design Professional (architect or engineer). In the constantly evolving environment of construction projects, changes don’t only affect physical construction work—they also impact design services. This document provides a reliable way to track, approve, and manage those changes, ensuring transparency between the Owner and the Design Professional.

This form is used as a companion to the ConsensusDocs 240 or 245 Owner/Design Professional Standard Agreements, offering a clear method to authorize and account for additional design services beyond the original contract. Whether the changes involve expanded scope, extra deliverables, or adjustments in timeline, ConsensusDocs 242 ensures all parties are aligned.

Key features include:

• A labor breakdown section requiring the Design Professional to itemize services performed for each invoice.
• Flexible compensation options, including actual hours billed at the standard rate or a lump sum payment.
• A comprehensive deliverables table to track remaining project documents and their respective due dates.
• Structured approval fields to document Owner authorization, ensuring legal clarity and accountability.

This change order form mirrors similar documents like the AIA G802-2017, which amends an architect’s responsibilities under the AIA B101 Agreement. However, ConsensusDocs 242 provides a neutral, collaborative approach that aligns with ConsensusDocs’ broader mission to support fair and efficient construction contracts.

By implementing this standardized tool, Owners can maintain control over design changes, manage budgets more effectively, and reduce the risk of miscommunication or dispute during the design phase. It’s a practical, legally sound solution for managing inevitable changes while keeping projects on track and within scope.