What is a Field Change and how is it authorized?

What is a Field Change and how is it authorized?

• A. A formal change recorded in the project log only.
• B. An on-site modification authorized via CO, CD, or field-order process depending on contract terms.
• C. A modification requested by the contractor without approval.
• D. A design change requiring full project re-bid.

Answer: (B)

A field change is an on-site modification to the work that addresses conditions or needs found in the field, done within the contract’s approved modification process rather than as a new design from scratch. It is authorized through the contract’s established channels—typically by the Contracting Officer or their designated representatives, such as the Construction Division, or via a field-order mechanism specified in the contract. This ensures the change is properly reviewed, funded, and scheduled, and documented before work proceeds. It’s not something the contractor can do unilaterally, and it’s not always a full design change requiring a new bid.

A field change is an on-site modification to the work that addresses conditions or needs found in the field, done within the contract’s approved modification process rather than as a new design from scratch. It is authorized through the contract’s established channels—typically by the Contracting Officer or their designated representatives, such as the Construction Division, or via a field-order mechanism specified in the contract. This ensures the change is properly reviewed, funded, and scheduled, and documented before work proceeds. It’s not something the contractor can do unilaterally, and it’s not always a full design change requiring a new bid.