Many construction projects come with variations and bump into delays. I have ever had some construction projects that have risen in cost, and some that have had agreed extensions of time of a few months. Almost all of my variation claims were successful, and most were settled amicably without getting into costly and legal disputes.
How do you succeed your variation claims?
- Read and fully understand the contract paper prior to starting the construction projects. Many builders don’t read through their contract papers until they get into trouble. It’s far too late then. You must know your rights and obligations before you begin the project. You must also know the client’s obligations.
- Approved construction time frame is very important. The construction schedule can be the key of all delay claims. The schedule can protect both the clients and the builders.
- Good reliable records should be kept. This includes daily reports. You also must check that meeting moments are a fair representation of what has been mentioned at the meeting .A missing piece of documents can be the major difference between a winning claim and one which is rejected. Accurate documents are very important to succeed your variation claims.
- All instructions in the contracts should be in writing. It’s really difficult to verify verbal instructions. People might be very forgetful – particularly in terms of money.
- Ask for Professional help. Discuss the variation claims with those actually involved with the projects. They might remember important things and costs that you forgot. Find expert advice if needed.
- Claims should be carefully planned and strategically presented with all records. You actually have one possibility to win over the client that you are eligible for the variation claim. Don’t mess it up with a bad submission.
Variation to the work is one of the most common reasons the construction projects will go over budget. Variations lead to legal dispute. They can be the main reason why a construction project has been delayed. Disputes will also lead to the termination of contracts and serious problems.