Variation
A variation is an agreed change to a construction contract's scope, which changes the contract value and usually the programme. Variations should be agreed in writing before the work is done so they can be valued and certified.
Where you meet it
See the tendering guide. In SupaJack Construct a variation updates the project's contract value and raises the costing sheet version, so the budget history stays in one place. Related: costing sheet and payment certificate.
Why it matters
Variations agreed only by email are the most common reason the final account is disputed, because neither side can prove what was agreed or when.