What should a contractor do if he finds a handwritten provision on a drawing?

In the context of construction and contracting, it is essential to have clear and comprehensive documentation to avoid disputes and ambiguity in project execution. When a contractor encounters a handwritten provision on a drawing, the best course of action is to seek clarification from the customer.

Handwritten changes can often be informal and may not have gone through the proper channels of review and approval. As such, these changes may create confusion or conflict with the original plans, which are usually subject to a formal approval process and may include additional considerations such as permits, material compatibilities, and schedules.

By seeking clarification, the contractor ensures that there is a mutual understanding of the changes, maintains open lines of communication with the customer, and protects themselves from potential claims of negligence or misinterpretation later in the project. This inquiry also serves to confirm whether the handwritten notes were indeed intended to alter the scope of work, or if they were perhaps misunderstood or miscommunicated. Overall, this approach minimizes the risk of issues arising from unapproved changes, ensuring that all parties have a shared understanding of the project's requirements.