Examining Change Order Reasons for Non-Structural Utility Support Projects in Healthcare Facilities

Although issuing change orders is a common practice in the construction phase of any project, non-structural utility subcontractors are struggling and seek to find a way to reduce change orders. Therefore, this paper presents the analysis results on change orders to cultivate possible suggestions and solutions on how to reduce or minimize change orders in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) works. Change orders in non-structural utility works are analyzed based on six categories such as rerouting and change of location, changes in weight, rejected design by Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, District Structural Engineer, or the Structural Engineer of Record, unforeseen conditions, changed equipment, and owner-initiated change. The analysis findings showed that rerouting and changing location is the most significant cause, followed by unforeseen conditions. The results not only contribute to the existing body of knowledge on change order research area, but also help MEP contractors reduce the time and cost of change orders.