Stop work order
In the United States, a stop work order (SWO) is a formal notice that can be issued to a contractor by a client compelling them to suspend or cease work. SWOs are typically permitted by all federal contracts as a means of protecting workers, the public, buildings, the surrounding area, the environment, and so on.
Building officials can issue SWOs if inspectors decide that the works are in violation of building codes, zoning ordinances, or any other law or regulation, including health and safety rules.
If an SWO is not subsequently followed with an order to resume work (a start order), it amounts to the contract being terminated.
The following items are typically included in an SWO:
- A description of the activities being suspended (it may only relate to a portion of the works).
- Instructions for the contractor relating to any orders, permits, or services that are pending.
- Instructions about how to manage subcontracts.
- How the contract can be terminated if required.
- How a start order will be issued (what needs to be resolved, how to arrange a re-inspection and so on).
- The penalties that will be imposed if the SWO is not followed.
It is important that all costs are documented and tracked during the SWO process so that they can be reimbursed if appropriate at a later date. The contractor may be entitled to an adjustment or reappraisal of the schedule and contract price if the SWO means that there is an increase in the time and cost of delivering the project.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Open industry engagement survey seeks responses
Institutions and the importance of engagement.
National Retrofit Hub unveils new guide
Digital Building Logbooks and Retrofit: An Introduction.
Top 50 firms awarded 52bn of projects in the last year
New engineering data shows.
Enhancing construction site reporting efficiency
Through digitisation and the digital revolution.
Noise in the built environment
BSRIA guide TG 20/2021.
17,000 people suffer conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work.
Turning down the noise: Auditory health
A pervasive risk with far-reaching consequences.
Getting the most out of heat pumps and heating
How heat pumps work and how they work best.
Plumbing and heating for successful retrofit and renovation
Low temperature underfloor systems and heat pumps.
Cost-of-living crisis and home improvement plans
Starting on the right footing and top tips for projects.
Delays on construction projects
Types, mitigation and the acceleration of works.
From Chaucer to Fawlty Towers.
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.