The role of Contract Administrator under a building contract normally includes:

• chairing meetings with the contractor and client
• inspecting the works at regular intervals
• issuing instructions to the contractor including any variations of the works
• determining any applications for extensions of time by the contractor, advising the client on delay and the application of liquidated damages
• authorising interim payments
• certifying the completion date of the works
• settling the final account

The Contract Administrator has a responsibility to keep clients informed on works progress including timing and the quality of the work, the cost of the works, as well as ensuring the client understands their obligations under the building contract.

Whilst the Contract Administrator is a role formalised within a building contract and does not commence until that stage, typical service delivery for clients prior to entering into a building contract will also include the design and specification of contract works, advising on appropriate forms of contract and procurement, building works insurances, as well as statutory requirements including health and safety and the practical application of the CDM regulations.

Director Ian Haywood sat on the Working Group that was formed to oversee the drafting of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) guidance note on Contract Administration.