Performing the work.
WHAT DIFFERS FROM COMMERCIAL WORK
Formal processes for everything Documentation requirements Multiple approval layers Slower decisions Payment tied to documentation
WHAT TO ESTABLISH AT THE OUTSET
Who the contract manager is Who approves what How instructions are issued How variations are handled What documentation accompanies claims
WHY DOCUMENTATION FOR CLAIMS
Payment is withheld for incomplete documentation, indefinitely.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
Exactly what each claim must contain.
WHAT TO NEVER DO
Perform additional work without written instruction.
WHY
It will not be paid, regardless of who requested it verbally.
WHAT TO DO IF INSTRUCTED VERBALLY
Confirm it in writing before proceeding.
WHAT TO RECORD
Daily: work performed, resources deployed, conditions, instructions received, delays and their causes.
WHY DELAYS SPECIFICALLY
Claims for extension of time require contemporaneous records.
WHAT TO NOTIFY PROMPTLY
Anything affecting time or cost.
WHY
Contracts require notice within defined periods, and late notice forfeits entitlement.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
Those notice periods, and comply with them.
WHAT TO SUBMIT
Progress reports as required, on time.
WHAT TO MAINTAIN
Relationships with the contract manager.
WHY
They determine how smoothly approvals and payments proceed.
WHAT TO AVOID
Escalating disputes prematurely Stopping work without contractual grounds
WHY
Both damage standing and may breach the contract.
WHAT TO KEEP
The complete contract record.
