Utah Contractor Practice Exam

What form allows a contractor to proceed with work until a formal change order is processed?

1. Letter of intent

2. Presentment

3. Field order

4. Writ of mandamus

The correct answer is: Field order

The form that allows a contractor to proceed with work while awaiting a formal change order is the field order. A field order is typically issued by the project owner or their representative and authorizes certain changes in the work or clarifications in the project scope, even before a more formalized change order is executed. This mechanism helps to maintain project progress, especially when there are immediate needs that must be addressed to avoid delays. In contrast, a letter of intent serves more as a preliminary agreement indicating that parties intend to enter into a formal contract but does not necessarily provide authorization to start work without a finalized contract. Presentment usually refers to the act of formally presenting a document or request, which doesn’t directly facilitate ongoing construction work. A writ of mandamus is a judicial order compelling a government official or entity to perform a duty that they are obligated to complete, which is not related to simply allowing construction work to continue during a change order process.