Understanding Construction Documents, Specifications, and Their Role in Your Project Contract
At Waldron Designs, clarity and transparency are the foundation of every successful project. One topic that often raises questions is the role of construction documents and specifications — collectively known as contract documents — and what it means when changes happen during construction.
Let’s explore what these documents are, how they guide the project, why sticking to them matters, and how we professionally manage any modifications.
What Are Construction Documents and Specifications?
Construction Documents are detailed drawings and plans that visually communicate every aspect of your project. They include:
Floor plans, elevations, and sections
Cabinetry, finish, and built-in details
Site plans and landscape layouts
Electrical, plumbing, and lighting layouts
These serve as the “blueprint” for your home, guiding contractors to build exactly what we’ve designed together.
Specifications are the written instructions that define materials, products, installation methods, performance standards, and quality controls. They ensure every aspect meets the high standard your home deserves.
Together, these form a comprehensive and coordinated set of instructions for your builder.
What Are Contract Documents?
Once you’re ready to start construction, the construction documents and specifications become part of your contract documents — the legally binding set of materials defining your agreement with the contractor. These typically include:
The signed construction contract
Construction drawings and specifications (from Waldron Designs)
General and supplementary conditions (from the contractor)
Any addenda or approved change documents
These documents establish everyone’s expectations — what is to be built, how, and to what standards. They are the key reference point if questions or disputes arise.
Why Sticking to Contract Documents Matters
The contract documents are the agreed-upon guidebook for your project. They are more than just helpful — deviating from them without following a formal, written modification process can have serious consequences:
It can be a breach of contract. If the contractor and homeowner proceed with work that differs substantially from the approved design and specifications without a signed change order or amendment, this is typically considered a material breach.
Legal and financial implications. Such unauthorized changes can release the Designer (Waldron Designs) from liability related to that work and could lead the Designer to seek remedies, including contract termination or damages.
Maintaining design integrity and quality. Keeping construction aligned with contract documents ensures your vision is realized consistently and avoids surprises or reduced quality.
Clear communication is key. If you want to make a change, you must notify us early so we can coordinate a formal written modification.
How We Manage Modifications
Changes often happen during construction—this is normal. Here’s how we handle them with professionalism, transparency, and care:
Open Communication
Let us or your contractor know as soon as you consider a change so we can discuss implications together.Formal Documentation
All changes are documented through addenda (pre-construction) or change orders (during construction) signed by all relevant parties. This makes sure every change is agreed upon and official.Transparency on Costs and Schedule
We review how changes may impact your budget, timeline, and goals before work proceeds — you always have final approval.Protection for Everyone
Proper change management keeps your design intact, maintains quality, and protects your investment.
What This Means for You
Clear, consistent expectations minimize misunderstandings, delays, and disputes.
Your contract documents are your protection. They hold everyone accountable for scope, budget, and quality.
Unauthorized changes can undermine the agreement and jeopardize your project’s success. It’s critical to follow the formal modification process.
Our Commitment to You
At Waldron Designs, we invest the time and expertise to prepare detailed construction documents that reflect your vision and values. We prioritize sustainability, safety, and beauty — and we support you throughout your project with clear communication and careful change management to protect your investment every step of the way.
If you have questions about contract documents, change procedures, or what happens if unauthorized changes occur, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you build with confidence and clarity.
Warm regards,
Rachel & Sean
