Template preview
Columns and one SAMPLE row from the Excel file. Print this page or use Print / Save as PDF in your browser if you need a PDF snapshot.
| CO # | Date | Description | Reason / requested by | Cost impact ($) | Schedule days | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAMPLE-CO-01 | 2026-03-12 | Add 200A panel upgrade and feeder — owner requested capacity | Owner / electrical | 4800 | 3 | Pending | Quote attached; awaiting written approval |
How to use this template
- Download the Excel file. Use Download Excel on this page. Open it in Excel, Google Sheets, or Numbers.
- Log each change as its own row. Give every change a CO number, date, plain-language description, and who requested it.
- Capture cost and schedule impact. Estimate dollars and days before you approve work so the office and field stay aligned.
- Update status as you go. Move rows from Pending → Approved → Implemented (or Rejected) so nothing gets lost.
When to use a change order spreadsheet
Use this template when scope shifts mid-job — owner upgrades, site conditions, or design clarifications — and you need a paper trail before the crew installs the work.
This template is an original ProtoPM form for planning and tracking. It is not a legal contract and is not affiliated with AIA, CCDC, or other standard forms. Adapt it for your trade and jurisdiction.
What each column is for
Keep descriptions short and specific (trade + work). Cost and schedule columns are estimates until approved — update them when the number is agreed.
- CO # — your sequential number for the project
- Cost impact — positive add or credit; leave blank until priced
- Status — Pending, Approved, Rejected, or Implemented
Common mistakes
Do not start field work on verbal changes without a row and status. Do not bury multiple unrelated changes in one description.
Use it in ProtoPM instead
ProtoPM Project Delivery → Change Log keeps the same story on the live project next to financials, schedule, and field — so the office and crew share one list.
- Record changes on the job, not a detached file
- Financial changes can link to budget or invoices when approved
- Free includes the change log on every project
Related guide: Construction change log software guide
Want this connected to your projects?
Want change orders automatically connected to your projects? Try ProtoPM Change Log — free to start.
It's free to run projects in ProtoPM.
Common questions
- Is this a free construction change order template?
- Yes. Download the Excel file from this page with no account required. ProtoPM branding appears on the Try ProtoPM sheet inside the workbook.
- Can I print it as a PDF?
- Yes. Open the file or use Print / Save as PDF from this page preview in your browser. Spreadsheet downloads are Excel (.xlsx).
- How do I track change orders in ProtoPM?
- Create a free account, open a project, and use Project Delivery → Change Log. Free forever — no trial clock. No credit card.
Ready to leave the spreadsheet?
Create a free ProtoPM account for live projects — schedule, field, costs, and changes in one place. Free forever.
It's free to run projects in ProtoPM.