Contractors are usually quick to submit variation claims to the client asking for additional time and/or money. These claims are a result of changes and additions that the client has made to the works, or because the conditions which could have been expected on the project are different (more adverse) than those actually encountered. But, […]

In a previous article, I discussed reasons that contractors can claim a delay on their project. Unfortunately, some contractors submit delay claims to which they aren’t entitled. This may be because they don’t understand the contract document or the basics of construction variation claims. Regrettably, some contractors are just serial claimants claiming for anything and […]

All too often, construction projects are finished late. Usually, the contractor is blamed. Contractors inevitably lose money because they are on the project longer than they planned to be. In addition, they are often penalized by the client for finishing late. But, is it always the contractor’s fault? Many of the delays experienced on a […]

Who is responsible for obtaining work in your company? Inevitably, most will answer that the estimator, owner, or some senior manager must find and win work. Yet, the responsibility of procuring work lies with everyone in the company. Management’s Role in Winning Projects. Management must: Ensure that the estimating team has the right resources (including […]

As I walked past a construction project the other Sunday, I noticed that a number of people were working on the project site. It brought up memories of some of my projects where we sometimes worked long hours and pulled weekend shifts. In fact, we found that on some projects up to 30% of the […]

It’s impossible not to notice the building boom in France these days. Construction cranes are everywhere in Paris; modern chrome and glass buildings are nestled into neighborhoods that are centuries old and new facades blend seamlessly with the existing. Cranes dot the landscape in small towns as well, their towering booms competing with church spires […]

Frequently we hear horror stories of projects that have gone wrong, finished late, gone far over budget (sometimes in excess of double the original estimates), poor quality, accidents, lengthy legal battles and projects that don’t do what they were supposed to do. Construction projects face numerous risks. Understanding these risks could help clients avoid, or […]

Frequent flyers and those who travel for business sometimes cite the deplorable sameness and characteristic lack of personality of chain hotels and budget motels. Reasonably-priced lodging seems particularly dreary for those who must frequently book extended stays for business, or for anyone who would like a little R&R during long airport layovers. Luxury chains, while […]

In a previous post, we considered the 10 biggest construction risks facing contractors. However many of these risks can be avoided. In this post, I suggest ways that contractors can mitigate and avoid these risks. Non-payment can be avoided by: Contractors doing research on their prospective clients before pricing the project. This research could inform […]