Contract Administration
Professional supervision of a robust contract is essential,
ensuring cost, quality and time objectives are met
Whatever the building works – maintenance, repairs, refurbishment or redecoration – contract administration helps prevent any mishaps.
As administrator, one of our experienced surveyors will manage the contract between you (the employer) and the principal building contractor. The role is perfectly suited to a qualified surveyor as it requires someone with experience of contractual provisions and the confidence to apply their knowledge. Someone fair with strong negotiating skills, who’s organised and able to multi-task.
Although administration doesn’t technically begin until the building contract is in place, in practice the administrator is often responsible for preliminary services if formally requested. These might include the method of procurement or the calculation of potential liquidated damages.
As administrator, we perform a dual role: part agency, part decision-making. If there’s a conflict of interest, we remain impartial, using our professional expertise to arrive at a decision. This impartiality enables either the employer or the contractor to challenge our decision.
OA Surveyors have experience in Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) contracts. Our role in the project will determine which JCT (or other form of) contract we use. For a small, relatively simple project, we may use a JCT Minor Works Building Contract, whereas if the main contractor both designs and constructs the project, we may use a JCT Design & Build Contract. Various items are included within the Preliminary and Workmanship section of the Specification of Works which refer to the type of contract, payment clauses and other contractual clauses.
We’re also able to advise on project management - the role is similar but it’s a different discipline.
Tasks under a typical contract include:
- Ensure that the drawings and specifications are appropriate for the proposed works
- Issue tender documents to approved contractors, checking the tenders for accuracy
- Prepare the contract and advise on insurance cover
- Undertake periodic site inspections to ensure adequate progress is being made
- Give instructions, including any variation orders
- Rule on any applications by the contractor for an extension of time
- Monitor costs and certify interim payments
- Issue certificates and notices, including payment and practical completion certificates
- Negotiate and agree the principal contractor’s final account
- Inspect the work at the end of the project and certify the date of completion
-
"Thank you for your management of the project which has made it completely seamless from our side – it is very much appreciated."
— C Bullen, New Church Road
