If you’re embarking on a build project of any kind, having a building contract in place before work begins is advisable, as it affords you and your builder legal protection should disputes arise for any reason.

It’s not a legal requirement to have a formal written contract in place before your chosen builder starts work on your project, but if you do encounter problems they can prove particularly invaluable, ensuring that every party knows what’s expected of them during the build.

Strong contracts should include information about the scope of the work involved, as well as a price for the scheduled project and a defined start and end date. Aim to be as detailed as possible, since projects of this kind are complex, with all sorts of issues and challenges likely to arise.

Ensure that there is a schedule of works included in the contract, which makes it clear what has been included in the price given to you by your builder. This can help you see where your money is going and just how good the specification and design of the work actually is.

It is also wise to include rules on the valuation of any extra work, as well as providing you the customer with compensation from the builder if the completion date is passed. This will help you see what your likely losses would be if you have to shell out for extended storage, rent and so on.

Well written contracts will also outline when builders can raise their prices if the scope of the work changes, such as the requirement for deeper foundations because of unforeseen ground conditions.

 

If you need any further construction contract advice, get in touch with the team here at Cavendish Surveying today.