What are the key duties of a contract administrator under a refurbishment project?
- Managing communications with the contractor
- Giving instructions (changing the scope)
- Instructing the correction of defects
- Notifying compensation events (assessing quotes)
- Assess programme and monitor
- Issuing payment certificates
- Checking compliance with scope (checking drawings and specification)
- Issue certificate of completion
- Retention and defects liability period
Why did you use the NEC4 Short Contract?
- Standardised use across our department - consistent across all projects
- Determined by the scope and estimated costs
- NEC3 has collaborative approach
- Proven track record
- Uses plain english
Did you consider any other contracts?
I didn’t consider any other form of contract, NEC4 Short Contract is our default contract due to remaining consistent across our department. However, I do have an awareness of the JCT Minor Works contract which would have been suitable given the size and nature of this scheme.
Why was the tender evaluation based 100% on price, and what are the risks of that approach?
- Low risk
- Low value
- Appropriate for the scope and estimated cost
- No specialist works
Risks - Does not take into account the risks of refurbishment
- Risk of underpricing
- Does not take into account health and safety
If the lowest tender had appeared unrealistically low, what would you have advised the client?
- Do not accept
- Undertake detailed tender clarification
- Compare to the other tenders
- Assess insolvency risk
How does a price-only tender differ from a quality and price assessment?
- Price only considers tendered price no quality submission
- Weighted price quality split such as 90/10 or 80/20
- Quality usually evaluates
- Programme
- Health and safety performance
- Experience with similar projects
- Employment and skills plan
What are the key contract documents you would expect to be included in a building contract?
- Scope (specifications, building, electrical, mechanical, structural)
- Drawings
- Programme
- Health and safety documentation (PCI)
- Activity schedule
What is the process you would take when you receive an application for payment?
I would check to see what the contractor was claiming for and check there claim against the items within Priced Activity Sheet.
I would undertake an inspection to ensure the items the contractor was claiming ‘Price for Work Done to Date’ and the materials used were as specified. Once satisfied I would make payment.
