What is the written order that the contractor receives from the owner authorizing a change in the work?

The written order that a contractor receives from the owner authorizing a change in the work is known as a Change Order. A Change Order is a formal document that outlines modifications to the original construction contract, including adjustments in scope, price, and timelines resulting from these changes. This is a critical part of project management as it ensures that both parties are in agreement about the terms of the modified work and provides a record of the changes that have been authorized.

Understanding the other options clarifies why they do not fit. A directive, for example, may imply a more informal or immediate request for a change but does not carry the same formal nature as a Change Order. Additive typically refers to changes that increase the project scope or cost, but it is not a formal term for the written order itself. Supplement might suggest additional information or resources but does not specifically denote an authorization for changes in work. Therefore, among these choices, Change Order is the most accurate term that captures the formal approval process for altering a construction contract.