You have met with the project owner to discuss the project in-depth and have received the contract. In addition to each clause in the agreement, you need to carefully review work-related matters.
Here is what to look for regarding your work:
1. Scope of work
The scope of work in the contract should clearly state what you need to work on and what is excluded. Are you required to handle applications for building permits, land clearing, installations, landscaping and so on?
The scope of work information will help you determine the subcontractors to hire and how to draft their contracts.
2. Project schedule
Review the dates in the agreement and ensure you have enough time to complete your work, that is, hiring subcontractors, ordering materials and equipment and verifying everyone has offered quality services.
You should also check schedule changes. If it’s not discussed in the contract, raise this matter with the project owner, as anything can happen, such as weather changes or delays in supply.
3. Contract documents
Carefully review all contract documents, including drawings and specifications, to confirm they are of the property you will be working on and are accurate.
If something is amiss, perhaps you have received outdated drawings, let the owner know. Working with the wrong contract documents can lead to costly conflicts.
4. Contract amount
The contract amount is the financial compensation you will receive upon project completion. This clause typically includes the estimates of labor, equipment, materials, overheads and profit margins.
It can also include a schedule of values (a list of project activities and their costs), payment terms and adjustments. The contract amount should change when the scope of work changes.
When you receive your contractor’s contract, review the accuracy of work-related matters and every other clause. Legal guidance can help you spot elements that can negatively impact you in the future.