Review new-home invoices and changes

Start with the agreed payment basis

Review what the invoice says was delivered or completed. Ask the contractor to explain the amount and how it fits the contract and earlier payments.

• Check the contract amount and previous approved changes.
• Identify duplicated, unexplained or out-of-scope charges.
• Keep payment confirmation with the invoice.

Record the change before making the decision

A change order documents a change to the agreed work. Ask for the proposed scope, price and schedule effect so you can make an informed decision.

• Distinguish a proposed change from an approved one.
• Record who has authority to approve it.
• Update the expected final cost after approval.

Keep notices and releases organized

A Preliminary Notice identifies a participant who may have lien rights; it is not itself a recorded mechanics lien. Ask your adviser how notices, payments and release forms should be reviewed for your project.

• Keep the sender, date and described work together.
• Track payment questions with the contractor.
• Use qualified advice for release wording, deadlines or an actual lien dispute.

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