What is the primary purpose of Addenda in a contract?

The primary purpose of addenda in a contract is to make changes in the project before bids are accepted. Addenda serve as formal modifications or clarifications to the original project documents, such as drawings or specifications. This is particularly important during the bidding phase, as it ensures that all potential bidders have the same, up-to-date information about the project, allowing them to submit accurate bids that reflect the current scope of work.

By issuing an addendum, the owner or design professional can address any changes or additional details that may not have been included in the original documents. This not only helps maintain fairness among bidders but also reduces the potential for misunderstandings and disputes later in the project, as all parties have agreed upon the same information before work begins.

The other options address different aspects of project management or contract details but do not capture the specific purpose of addenda in the context of bidding. For instance, finalizing project terms and conditions pertains to the overall contract rather than the changes made during the bidding process. Similarly, establishing payment schedules and reviewing legal obligations are important, but they are not the primary function of addenda, which is specifically about modifying pre-bid project details.