Dear Uncle Jack
You help lots of electrical subbies. What are the key points to
look out for in the new century.
Dear Worried Engineer
Here are some suggested "New Century Resolutions".
1. Set up a standard check list for enquiries and orders.
2. Vet enquiries and assess the
risks.
3. Check letters of intent
and incoming orders. Read the small print.
4. Confirm your start dates in writing.
5. Don't accidentally "start the clock".
6. Make sure your site team fully understand the job and the rules.
7. Agree a baseline programme at the outset.
8. Carefully analyse all revised programmes from the builder.
9. Obtain a copy of the builder's overall programme, and monitor his
progress.
10. Set up a system of records and notices on day one. Monitor monthly.
11. Forge good relationships, but never "fall in love" with
the builder.
12. Trust nobody. Beware
builder's amnesia. Get it in writing.
13. Stand by your man on site when he comes under attack.
14. Keep good records (eg site diary, correspondence, dayworks, labour
register, job allocation sheets, photographs etc).
15. Submit weekly programme/progress reports. Show reason for each delay, and action required
from others.
16. Give prompt written notice of all delays. State causes and effects
on programme.
17. Don't rely on site minutes as a substitute for notices.
18. Check out the authority of those giving instructions.
19. Confirm all word of mouth instructions in writing.
20. Don't accelerate unless you have prior written agreement to
payment.
21. Remember the true costs of acceleration.
22. Once a month, ask "Is this what we started out to do?".
If not, take action.
23. Remember your contract is with the builder, not with the PQS.
24. Don't use the bill of quantities like a shopping list. Use star
rates where the character and/or conditions have changed.
25. Gear your accountancy systems to recovering money, not spending it.
26. Give early notice of claims and additional costs. Get it in the
budget.
27. Request extension of time to protect you from set off and damages.
28. Watch out for "premature occupation" by the client.
29. Keep records going to the very end of the job.
30. Remember there is an Adjudicator available within seven days for
all disputes.
Happy New Century.
John Russell
Construction Contracts & Training Consultants (Established
1984)
Cheshire CW4 7DP Tel : 07770 986444
Email :
swsubbie@globalnet.co.uk Website:
www.jrconsultant.co.uk