CVI TEMPLATE FOR DRYLINING AND FITOUT CONTRACTORS
Confirmation of verbal instruction (CVI) template
A site manager asks you to move a partition, add a bulkhead or board an extra wall. Nobody writes it down. Three weeks later the extra work is on your application and they're asking where it came from.
A confirmation of verbal instruction, or CVI, puts that instruction in writing the same day. Ours is in the Quote Pack, with a filled-in example.
What does CVI mean in construction?
CVI stands for confirmation of verbal instruction.
It's a short document you send to confirm an instruction you were given verbally on site. It records who asked, what they asked for and when.
Some contracts give it formal weight. Under the JCT Standard Building Contract, a verbal instruction from the architect or contract administrator is confirmed in writing by the contractor within seven days. If they don't dissent within seven days of getting that confirmation, the instruction takes effect.
Subcontracts vary, so check yours for how instructions have to be confirmed. Even where it has no formal role, a dated CVI is your record of the instruction if payment is disputed later.
What to put on a CVI
A CVI number, so you can link it to the variation order later
The project name and site address
The date and time you got the instruction
The name and role of the person who gave it
Where on site the work is
Exactly what you were asked to do, with drawing references if there are any
Whether it affects your price or programme
Your signature, and a space for theirs to acknowledge it
When to send it
Send it the same day. A WhatsApp or email confirming the instruction is a good first record, then send the CVI formally.
If the instruction changes your price, follow up with a variation order and get it agreed before you start the extra work. The CVI records what was asked for. The variation order prices it.
Get the CVI template
The CVI is one of four templates in our Quote Pack, alongside a drylining quote template, a variation order form and a daywork record sheet. Each one comes as a Word file with a filled-in demo, and there's an instruction sheet that shows how they work together.
£14.99, instant download.
See also: what a drylining quote should include.
Common questions
Is a CVI the same as a variation order?
No. The CVI confirms an instruction was given. The variation order prices the change and gets it agreed.
Does a CVI guarantee I'll get paid?
No. It's evidence of the instruction. Whether and how you're paid depends on your contract.
Who sends the CVI?
The person who received the instruction. For a dryliner on site, that's usually you, sent to whoever gave the instruction.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Check your own contract for how instructions must be confirmed.
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Sources
surv (RICS): Confirmation of verbal instruction, sample template and JCT 2005 clause 3.12 note: https://www.isurv.com/downloads/download/402/confirmation_of_verbal_instruction
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