How do I communicate a scope change to my Toronto GC?

Communicating a scope change clearly and in writing is the single most important thing you can do to protect yourself and keep your project on track. Verbal agreements on scope changes are one of the most common sources of disputes between Toronto homeowners and their general contractors — don't rely on them.

Start with a written change order request. Before any additional work begins, put your request in writing — email is fine and creates a timestamp. Describe exactly what you want changed, added, or removed. Be specific: "add a pot light in the master bedroom" is better than "add some lighting." Your GC should then respond with a formal Change Order document that includes the revised scope, updated cost, and any impact on the project timeline. Never let work proceed on a verbal "we'll figure it out later" basis.

A proper change order should include the original contract reference, a clear description of the new or modified work, the additional cost or credit, any schedule adjustment (e.g., "adds 3 business days"), and signatures from both parties. If your GC doesn't use formal change orders, draft a simple one yourself and ask them to sign it. This is standard practice on any professional Toronto construction project, from a kitchen reno in Leslieville to a full addition in Etobicoke.

Timing matters significantly. The earlier you communicate a change, the cheaper and less disruptive it tends to be. Changing the location of a bathroom rough-in before the plumber arrives costs far less than after the concrete has been poured or the walls are drywalled. If you're considering a change, flag it to your GC as soon as possible — even informally — so they can plan around it before it becomes a costly mid-stream disruption.

When it comes to cost, be aware that GCs typically apply a markup on change order work — commonly 15–20% in the Toronto market — to cover overhead, coordination, and the administrative cost of the change. This is normal and legitimate. What you want to avoid is open-ended change orders with no defined price. Always get the number in writing before approving.

Keep a project communication log. A simple shared folder or email thread dedicated to your project makes it easy to track what was agreed, when, and by whom. If your GC uses a project management app (like Buildertrend or CoConstruct), use it — these platforms create automatic paper trails for change orders and approvals.

If your GC resists putting changes in writing, that's a red flag worth taking seriously. Reputable Toronto contractors understand that change orders protect both parties — them from scope creep and you from surprise invoices.

For your next steps: review your original contract to understand how change orders are defined (most well-drafted contracts in Ontario will have a clause for this), then send your change request via email to your GC and ask for a written change order before any new work begins. If you need help finding a contractor who operates with professional documentation standards, browse the Toronto Construction Network directory to connect with vetted local GCs.