Who is responsible for submitting Change Orders?

The Architect is responsible for submitting Change Orders, as this process typically falls within their role in the contract administration phase. The Architect acts on behalf of the Owner and is responsible for managing the project’s design integrity and ensuring that any changes made during construction are documented and communicated effectively.

When a situation arises that necessitates a change to the original scope of work—due to unforeseen conditions, design modifications, or other reasons—the Architect evaluates these changes in collaboration with the Contractor. Once reviewed, the Architect prepares and submits the Change Order for approval, which ensures that all parties involved (especially the Owner) are aware of the changes and the associated costs.

In contrast, while the Contractor may propose changes based on construction realities or issues encountered on site, the formal submission of Change Orders is typically the Architect's responsibility to ensure it aligns with design intent and contractual obligations.