29/05/2026
Alteration refers to changes made to an already existing or completed structure. It usually involves adjusting, improving, or converting a building from its original form to another form. Alterations are common when a building is old or when the owner wants to use it for another purpose. For example, changing a residential building into an office space or adding more rooms to an existing house are examples of alterations. In simple terms, alteration means changing a completed building into a different form or condition.
Modification, on the other hand, refers to a minor adjustment or improvement made to a design, material, or construction method. It is usually not a major change but rather a small correction or improvement intended to make the work better or more suitable. Modifications can occur during the design stage or while construction is ongoing. For example, changing the color of tiles, adjusting the size of a window slightly, or replacing one material with another similar material are examples of modifications. Therefore, modification simply means making small improvements or adjustments to something.
Variation is a formal change made to the original contract work after construction has already started. It occurs when the client, architect, engineer, or contract administrator instructs the contractor to add, omit, or change part of the agreed work. Variations usually affect the contract sum, project cost, and sometimes the completion time. For instance, adding another floor to a building project after work has begun or changing the foundation type during construction are examples of variations. In simple language, variation means changing the original agreement or plan during construction.
