CHANGE ORDERS IN SAUDI LINEAR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

This research investigates causes, impact and control of change orders in Saudi linear construction projects. The paper presents frequency, severity and importance of twenty one causes and eleven potential impacts of change orders. Also, it reports on frequency of nine practices related to management and control of change orders. A questionnaire survey is conducted among owners, consultants and contractors of road, water and sewage construction projects. It is concluded that the consultant is the most responsible party for originating change orders. The overall average increase in total cost of construction projects due to change orders is found to be 11.3%. The study finds that there are 11 important causes and 7 important impacts of change orders. Two practices are highly recommended to be utilized by Saudi clients for controlling change orders in linear construction projects.