Mastering Dispute Avoidance: Expert Advice for Subcontractors in Construction Projects

In episode 35 of The Subcontractors Blueprint podcast, Jacob Austin offers essential guidance for subcontractors on how to sidestep disputes in construction projects. He underscores proactive management, meticulous record-keeping, a thorough understanding of the subcontract, and the ability to present a strong case as key strategies for issue resolution and certainty. Austin also touches on the importance of swift adjudication, the value of project management systems, and the benefits of direct communication with contractors to prevent disputes from escalating. His expert advice aims to equip construction business owners with the tools to navigate contractual challenges and maintain healthy project relationships.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

•  Discussion on the inevitability of disputes in construction projects and the potential consequences of lengthy dispute resolution processes.


•  Explanation of the adjudication process, its potential costs, and the importance of standing one's ground in front of adjudicators.


•  Emphasis on the importance of proactive management in dealing with issues as they arise, including the significance of timely notices and responses.


•  The significance of maintaining detailed and accurate records to build a strong case, including the importance of daily site diaries and timely record submission.


•  The importance of understanding the subcontract, including any amendments, to identify clauses that entitle subcontractors to more money and to manage risks effectively.


•  Articulating a strong narrative and demonstrating contractual entitlement alongside records to improve the likelihood of a positive outcome.


•  The benefits of personal discussion and negotiation with the contractor to maintain relationships and resolve issues, even in the absence of some essential measures.

BEST MOMENTS:

"God only knows how long it could actually take and how much it could cost when you don't even have an ounce of certainty that the outcome is going to come your way."

"For something that somebody is either going to make a flip decision on or perhaps come up with some arbitrary split and award you only a portion of what you're looking for, if anything at all."

"If you're missing some of the things we've already spoken about, like the records, the timely issued notices, then getting around the table and having a frank and open conversation about these things could be the only thing that sees you get any kind of payment."

Jacob is on a mission to help the 1 million SME contractors working within the construction industry. If you've taken something of value from this episode, please share the podcast with someone you know, and pass the value on.

HOST BIO: Meet Jacob Austin, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor with a rich background at construction industry giants Balfour Beatty, Kier, and Vistry Group. With extensive involvement in education, health, and residential projects spanning various scales, from £1000s to £100M in concurrent developments, Jacob brings a unique perspective. Having collaborated with numerous small businesses, he's now committed to sharing his expertise to drive their success. Join Jacob on his podcast, where he blends his profound insights and personable approach to offer guidance, industry secrets, and inspirational stories.

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-austin/ 

Instagram - www.instagram.com/qs.zone/ 

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