Know when to 'tap out' of a messy contract

6TH JANUARY 2022


Here at Quantum, we see the horror stories of construction industry Sub-Contractors falling deeper and deeper into the grasps of a Contractor on the promise of recovering losses on the next project. Maybe you'll think that you will just have to take a hit this time and 'cut your losses', but the next contract will be better.

The trouble is... this all depends on the Contractor giving you their word and that doesn't usually end well!

Remember, ultimately the Contractor is under no obligation to provide you with the next project and/or compensate you for any previous losses - unless you have it in writing.

Don't let the sweet talk convince you into making bad business decisions - you wouldn't chase your losses in the casino!

We always find the most satisfying business relationships stem from consistently profitable projects along with timely notification of additional costs and time - certainly not providing favours!

Take control from the outset by having your contract checked

Going into a contract casually, on a goodwill basis or without paying too much attention to the contract wording may seem like a good idea to secure the business and get going on site. But if you don't understand what you are signing up for, or the processes in place to manage the project, chances are you will end up losing out.

Quantum CPM can help thorough our Contract Vetting service.

When you are presented with a contract, it is vital that it is reviewed properly so you fully understand the terms on which you will be working.

By having the contract vetted by a Quantum specialist, any clauses, terms and conditions that may seem unfavourable will be flagged up so you can decide whether to challenge the client and seek a revised contract, or proceed in the knowledge of what you must do and by when.

Part of our Bundle of Services

Our Contract Vetting service is part of our Bundle of Services which is designed to help Sub-Contractors and Contractors protect themselves across the board in construction projects, helping to ensure they can deliver their services as promised with minimum fuss or risk of financial loss.

These services support you right through the contract, including with Monthly Variations Auditing and Project Liability Reviewing, right through to Retention Fund Management at the end.


To find out more about this topic and any of the challenges facing the UK construction industry, why not get in touch?

North and West: 0161 974 6655
North and East: 0113 447 0133