By Anthony I. Shin, Esq. | Construction Litigation Attorney | Shin Law Office
SUMMARY
Historic farm conversions in Buckland often reveal hidden conditions that require extra work, making airtight change order documentation essential. Without clear scope descriptions, signed approvals, and supporting evidence, contractors risk losing payment and schedule relief, while owners face unexpected costs. I help clients create and enforce change orders that meet preservation requirements and stand up in court.
Buckland Construction Litigation Attorney – Historic Farm Conversion Change Orders
In Buckland, historic farm conversions are some of the most complex construction projects you can take on.
They blend preservation requirements with modern building systems, often involving federal or state tax credit programs, local historic review boards, and specialized trades.
As a construction litigation attorney, I have seen these projects succeed when the change orders are rock solid — and fail when they are not.
Why Change Orders Matter So Much in Historic Conversions
Historic farm conversions almost always uncover the unexpected.
Rotted structural beams hidden behind walls, outdated electrical wiring, or foundations that need reinforcement can derail budgets and timelines.
Every time you encounter one of these surprises, the only way to protect yourself legally is with a properly executed change order.
Without one, you risk:
- Performing extra work without payment
- Disputes over whether the work was “included” in the original contract
- Project delays while you argue over scope
- Losing credibility in front of a judge or arbitrator
The Elements of a Strong Change Order
When I help clients prepare change orders that can hold up in court, I look for these key elements:
- Written and signed approval from all parties before work begins
- Detailed description of the new work and why it is required
- Updated cost breakdown tied directly to the change in scope
- Revised project schedule showing the time impact
- Supporting evidence such as inspection reports, photographs, or engineer recommendations
In historic farm conversions, including references to preservation guidelines or historic district approvals, is equally important.
Common Pitfalls I See in Buckland Projects
- Verbal agreements on-site that never make it to paper
- “Proceed and we’ll work it out later,” directives from owners or architects
- Vague change orders that lack cost or time impact details
- Failure to align the change order with funding or tax credit documentation requirements
In litigation, these weaknesses can cost contractors tens of thousands of dollars in unrecovered work — or force owners to pay for changes they never truly approved.
My Advice for Contractors and Owners
Treat every change order in a historic conversion as if it will end up in front of a judge.
That means keeping detailed records, securing written approvals, and tying the change directly to the conditions you encountered.
If you follow that process, you can avoid most disputes and win the ones that do arise.
If you are a contractor or property owner in Buckland facing a dispute over change orders in a historic farm conversion, I can help protect your rights and ensure your documentation holds up in court.
— Anthony I. Shin, Esq.
Principal Attorney | Shin Law Office
Call 571-445-6565 or book a consultation online today.
