Contract Administration

Contract Administration, Procurement Management, Project Management

The Pros and Cons of Fast-Tracking in Complex High-Rise Construction

By Dr Samer Skaik

Fast-tracking is a project management strategy that accelerates project delivery by overlapping the design and construction phases. This approach is particularly prevalent in complex high-rise projects, where the pressure to save time often leads construction firms to start building even before the design is fully completed. Although fast-tracking can significantly cut down project timelines, it also presents several challenges. …

Construction Industry, Construction Law, Contract Administration, Project Management

Empowering the Engineer: Significant Advances in FIDIC 2017 Red Book Over 1999

The FIDIC Red Book, published by the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), is a widely used standard form of contract for construction projects where the Employer designs the works. The role of the Engineer, a pivotal figure in administering the contract, has undergone significant enhancements in the FIDIC 2017 Red Book compared to its 1999 predecessor. These improvements aim to promote fairness, clarity, and efficiency in contract administration. This blog post explores the key advancements in the Engineer’s role under FIDIC 2017, focusing on substantial changes and citing relevant clauses for educational purposes. For brevity, we will not dwell on aspects of the Engineer’s role that remain unchanged or have only minor differences between the two editions. …

Construction Industry, Construction Law, Contract Administration, Project Management

Understanding FIDIC Golden Principles: A Guide for Construction Professionals

In this post, we dive into the FIDIC Golden Principles, a cornerstone of fair and balanced construction contracts globally. Whether you’re a contractor, engineer, or project manager, understanding these principles is essential for navigating international construction projects with confidence. Let’s explore what they are, why they matter, and how they impact your work.

Construction Law, Contract Administration, Project Management

Navigating Changes to Site Conditions and Discrepancies Under FIDIC 1999

By Dr Samer Skaik

Construction projects often evolve due to site conditions that differ from those initially anticipated. One such scenario involves variations in foundation levels or discrepancies in material requirements, such as concrete compressive strength. In this post, we explore a real-world contractual challenge and the proper procedure for handling it under FIDIC 1999, offering guidance for contractors who face similar issues. …

Construction Law, Contract Administration, Project Management

Understanding Contractor Remedies When the Employer Occupies and Uses Part of the Works Under FIDIC 1999

By Dr Samer Skaik

In the construction industry, disputes often arise when the Employer occupies or uses part of the works before the formal Taking Over Certificate (TOC) is issued. This situation can create challenges for Contractors, especially regarding their rights and obligations. This blog post addresses the Contractor’s remedies when such an occurrence happens, guided by FIDIC 1999 provisions. …

Construction Industry, Construction Law, Contract Administration, Project Management

Understanding Contractors’ Rights and Liabilities in the UAE: Navigating the Legal Framework of Subcontract Nomination

By Dr Samer Skaik

Subcontractor nomination is a common practice in the UAE construction industry, often governed by the FIDIC suite of contracts and the local Civil Code. However, the legal intricacies surrounding the rights and liabilities of nominated subcontractors (NSCs) and Main Contractors (MCs) can be complex. This blog post explores the legal framework of subcontract nomination in the UAE, shedding light on the key issues of liability, contract privity, and the role of collateral warranties. …

Construction Industry, Construction Law, Contract Administration, Procurement Management, Project Management, Security of Payment

The Importance of Timely Payments in the UAE Construction Industry: Challenges and Solutions

By Dr Samer Skaik

Cash flow is the lifeblood of the construction industry, and timely payments are essential for maintaining a healthy financial ecosystem. In the UAE, delayed or non-payment by employers has become a significant issue, leading to severe cash flow problems for contractors and their supply chains. These disruptions not only impact the construction companies but also have broader implications for the UAE’s economy, where construction contributes significantly to the GDP.

Traditionally, contractors claim payments upon completing specific project milestones, with payments made on a monthly basis or as specified in the contract. However, various factors can jeopardize this smooth cash flow, causing delays that ripple through the entire supply chain. Delayed payments can lead to project delays, disputes, and reduced profitability, and in extreme cases, even push contractors and subcontractors toward insolvency. …

Construction Industry, Construction Law, Contract Administration, Procurement Management, Project Management

Navigating Nomination Procedures in Construction Contracts: Insights and Challenges

By Dr Samer Skaik

In the realm of construction project management, nomination procedures play a pivotal role in determining how subcontractors are selected and engaged. These procedures have evolved significantly over time to address various shortcomings and complexities inherent in subcontractor nomination. This blog post explores the intricacies of nomination procedures, the risks associated with them, and strategies for improving their effectiveness. …

Construction Industry, Contract Administration, Procurement Management, Project Management

Mastering Subcontract Nomination in Construction: Key Strategies for Success

By Dr Samer Skaik

Subcontract nomination is a pivotal practice in the construction industry, offering significant advantages in project management. It allows the Employer to maintain control over cost, quality, and time while ensuring the involvement of specialized subcontractors. Despite the challenges and complexities associated with this approach, subcontract nomination remains a valuable tool for optimizing project outcomes. This blog delves into the essentials of subcontract nomination, exploring its benefits, strategic applications, and the types of subcontracting arrangements that can enhance project efficiency. …

Construction Industry, Construction Law, Contract Administration, Procurement Management

How to Deal with Provisional Sums Under FIDIC 1999

By Dr Samer Skaik

In construction contracts governed by FIDIC 1999, provisional sums are often included to account for certain parts of the work that are not defined in detail at the time of contract signing. These sums provide flexibility to accommodate future decisions by the Employer or Engineer regarding specific work items or materials. Proper management of provisional sums is crucial to ensure that the contract remains fair and that all parties understand their obligations and entitlements. …

Construction Law, Contract Administration, Security of Payment, Statutory Adjudication

Navigating the Adjudication Process under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW)

By Dr Samer Skaik

The adjudication process, governed by the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW), plays a crucial role in ensuring the speedy resolution of payment disputes within the construction industry. Let’s delve into the intricate details of this process and the key considerations for both claimants and respondents: …

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