1. An understanding of the basics of contract law is important if a contract administrator is to carry out his or her job successfully.
2. The commercial conditions of contract are imperative to the profitability of a contract. However, the commercial conditions of contract can be overlooked by those more interested in the technical and day-to-day aspects of the work.
3. Most technical requirements of contracting are contained in the drawings, specifications and other relevant documents such as programs and methods of payments.
4. Roles and responsibilities of the main entities involved should be known.
5. It is imperative to understand the need for contract documentation and records as they relate to site activities.
6. Contract set up includes identifying the various tasks and procedures involved, the development of a contract administration procedures manual and the various coordination activities required.
7. Conditions of contract provide rights and obligations of those involved in the contract and provide guidance on vetting contract conditions.
8. Variations are generally provided for within a construction contract to enable the Principal or the Superintendent to order the Contractor to perform works that vary from the original contract scope. Delay can often occur in a construction contract and disruption may be defined as an interruption to the planned work sequence or flow of work.
9. The majority of construction claims are brought by Contractors against Principals.
10. A dispute resolution clause should be considered to be included in the conditions of contract.
George Strohfeldt
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