Change Order Process Explained

Professional Pool Company — How We Handle Project Changes Clearly and Transparently

During pool construction, you may decide to modify something in your design, upgrade a feature, or add an option you didn’t select initially. These adjustments are handled through a change order. A change order ensures any updates to your project are documented, priced, approved, and completed without confusion.

This article explains what change orders are, when they’re needed, and how our process works step-by-step.

⭐ 1. What Is a Change Order?

A change order is a written document that updates your original contract. It outlines:

• What is being added, removed, or changed
• The price difference (if any)
• Timeline impacts (if any)
• Approval from both you and Professional Pool Company

It protects both parties by making sure changes are clear, agreed upon, and properly documented.

⭐ 2. When a Change Order Is Needed

A change order is required for any modification after engineering begins, including:

✔ Design adjustments

• Changing pool size or shape
• Adding or removing steps, benches, or sunshelves
• Adjusting depth

✔ Equipment upgrades

• Adding a heater
• Upgrading to automation
• Changing pump or filter type
• Adding extra lighting

✔ Material changes

• Tile or coping upgrades
• Decking changes
• Finish color changes (after ordering)

✔ Added features

• Waterfalls
• Deck jets
• Fire features
• Pergolas or screen enclosure changes

✔ Construction modifications

• Moving the equipment pad
• Relocating the pool on the lot
• Adding deck square footage

If it affects cost, timeline, or engineering — it requires a change order.

⭐ 3. Why Change Orders Matter

Change orders ensure:

✔ Clear communication

✔ No surprises during construction

✔ Accurate engineering & permitting

✔ Correct materials ordered

✔ Crew instructions updated

✔ Pricing transparency

✔ Warranty coverage remains valid

It keeps the project organized and protects the integrity of your build.

⭐ 4. Our Change Order Process (Step-by-Step)

Here is exactly how change orders work with Professional Pool Company:

Step 1 — You Request a Change

You let us know what you’d like to add or modify:

• Email
• Call
• Text
• Through your project manager

Step 2 — We Review Feasibility

We evaluate:

• Engineering impact
• Timeline impact
• Material availability
• County or HOA implications
• Cost changes

Some changes may require new plans or re-submission to the county.

Step 3 — We Provide a Written Change Order

You receive a document showing:

• Description of the change
• Updated plan or drawing (if applicable)
• Price adjustment
• Engineering/permitting implications
• Timeline considerations
• Any additional notes

Everything is itemized clearly.

Step 4 — You Approve the Change Order

The change order must be:

✔ Signed

✔ Dated

✔ Returned to us

Once approved, we update your project file, schedule, and materials.

Step 5 — Payment (If Applicable)

If there is an added cost, payment is typically due:

• At the time of approval or
• Added to the next progress draw, depending on the item

This keeps materials and scheduling on track.

Step 6 — Work Is Updated & Completed

We:

• Inform the crews
• Update construction instructions
• Update engineering (if required)
• Adjust scheduling
• Complete the change as specified

You’ll receive confirmation once the update has been implemented.

⭐ 5. Change Order Timing Matters

Best Time for Changes: Before Engineering

Changes are easiest and least expensive before:

• Engineering
• Permitting
• Materials are ordered

After Engineering

Changes may require:

• Plan revisions
• Additional engineering fees
• Permit corrections
• Timeline extension

During Construction

Changes become more limited and potentially costly depending on the phase.

Example: Moving steps or benches after gunite is not possible without major reconstruction.

⭐ 6. Examples of Common Change Orders

Here are typical homeowner requests:

• Adding a spa
• Changing interior finish color
• Increasing deck square footage
• Switching to a salt system
• Adding more LED lights
• Upgrading to automation
• Adding a heater or chiller
• Adding a sunshelf or deepening the pool

These are normal and we handle them routinely.

⭐ 7. What Cannot Be Changed After Certain Phases

Some changes are not feasible after major milestones:

After Engineering:

Pool placement on lot

Shape

Dimensions

After Gunite:

Steps

Benches

Depth

Sunshelf

Spa

After Decking:

Plumbing layout

Equipment pad location

We’ll guide you if a requested change is no longer feasible.

⭐ 8. Summary: Change Orders Keep Your Project Accurate

A change order ensures:

✔ All modifications are documented

✔ Pricing is clear and transparent

✔ Your pool remains engineered correctly

✔ Scheduling stays organized

✔ Everyone is aligned

It’s a simple, professional process designed to keep your project running smoothly.

⭐ Need to Request a Change?

Just reach out — we’ll explain feasibility and prepare a clear written change order.

👉 Contact your project manager anytime.

Updated on: 28/11/2025