Contract administrator for construction contracts

[edit] What is a contract administrator?

In the construction industry, the contract administrator is the individual responsible for administering the construction contract or contracts.

[edit] Who is the contract administrator?

The contract administrator is generally appointed by the client (or employer) and may be the project architect. However, they could also be the lead consultant, the cost consultant, a specialist consultant, a client representative or employer's agent, the project manager or an engineer, depending on the nature of the project.

On a construction management contract, the role of contract administrator might be the construction manager, and on management contracts the management contractor will perform the role of contract administrator.

[edit] What is the role of the contract administrator?

Contract administrators are appointed by the client, but when certifying or giving an assessment or decision, they should act honestly and reasonably and their decisions are open to challenge via dispute resolution procedures unless the contract makes their decisions final and conclusive.

Depending on the exact nature of their appointment, the contract administrator's role might include:

• Inviting and processing tenders.
• Preparing contract documents for execution.
• Administrating change control procedures.
• Seeking instructions from the client in relation to the contract.
• Issuing instructions such as variations, or relating to prime cost sums or making good defects.
• Considering claims, such as claims for extension of time.
• Chairing construction progress meetings.
• Preparing and issuing construction progress reports.
• Co-ordinating and instructing site inspectors.
• Agreeing commissioning and testing procedures.
• Agreeing defects reporting procedures.
• Ensuring that project documentation is issued to the client.
• Issuing certificates interim certificates for payment.
• Issuing practical completion certificates.
• Collating and issuing schedules of defects.
• Issuing the certificate of making good defects.
• Issuing the final certificate.

NB: On PFI (Private Finance Initiative) projects, there may also be an independent certifier who represents the project funder.

Roles in construction projects: analysis and terminology, by Hughes, W. and Murdoch, J. R, published in 2001 by the University of Reading, suggests that superintending officer is a synonym for contract administrator usually used in government contracts, and that supervising officer is a synonym for contract administrator usually used in local authority contracts.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Architects instruction.
• Employers agent.
• Causes of construction disputes.
• Certificate of making good defects.
• Construction contract certificates, notices and instructions.
• Contract claims.
• Change control procedures.
• Construction progress reports.
• Construction contract.
• Extension of time.
• Final certificate
• Instruction.
• Interim payment.
• Liquidated damages.
• Loss and expense.
• Practical completion.
• Site administrator.
• Variation.

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A contract administrator for construction contracts is a professional who plays a crucial role in managing and overseeing the contractual aspects of construction projects. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all parties involved in the construction contract comply with the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. Here are the key responsibilities of a contract administrator in construction contracts:

1. **Contract Review and Management:** The contract administrator carefully reviews the construction contract, ensuring a clear understanding of all provisions, terms, conditions, and requirements.

2. **Contract Compliance:** They ensure that all parties involved (owners, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers) adhere to the contract's terms and obligations throughout the project's duration.

3. **Change Orders:** The contract administrator manages change orders, which are modifications to the original contract due to design changes, unforeseen conditions, or additional work required. They assess the impact of these changes on costs, timelines, and contract terms.

4. **Payment Processing:** They oversee the payment process, verifying that work completed by contractors and subcontractors aligns with the payment milestones specified in the contract.

5. **Documentation and Record-Keeping:** The contract administrator maintains accurate records of all contract-related documents, including correspondences, change orders, meeting minutes, and any other relevant paperwork.

6. **Dispute Resolution:** If disputes arise during the project, the contract administrator may be involved in negotiating and mediating to resolve conflicts between the parties.

7. **Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Requirements:** They ensure that the construction project adheres to all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, permits, and licenses.

8. **Communication:** Effective communication is essential in their role, as they interact with various stakeholders, including owners, contractors, architects, engineers, and legal representatives.

9. **Risk Management:** The contract administrator assesses and manages risks associated with the contract to minimize potential issues that may arise during the construction process.

10. **Project Closeout:** Upon project completion, the contract administrator ensures all necessary documentation is finalized, including project sign-offs and final payments.

It's important to note that the specific responsibilities of a contract administrator may vary depending on the size and complexity of the construction project, as well as the organization's structure. In some cases, the contract administrator may be an independent professional hired by the project owner, while in others, they may be part of the construction company's internal team. Regardless of their specific role, contract administrators play a critical part in ensuring successful and compliant construction projects.