EXTENSION OF TIME (EoT) CLAIMS SUBSTANTIATION AND ASSOCIATED ISSUES IN COMPLEX-MULTI STAKEHOLDERS’ BUILDING CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS

Abstract

In complex and multi-stakeholder construction projects, delays and disruption are commonplace. Delays trigger the request for Extension of time (EoT) to enable adequate time for the project to be completed. Substantiating the need for EoT is a difficult task and requires a lot of effort. The administration of EoT claims come with a lot of issues to the clients and the contractors. The purpose of this study is to assess the factors for substantiating Extension of time (EoT) claims and the common issues associated with (EoT) in complex-Multi Stakeholders' Building Construction contracts. This study adopted a well-structured questionnaire administered on construction professionals in consulting and contracting organisations, via electronic means and using snowball sampling techniques in Abuja and Lagos state, Nigeria. With a response rate of 39.60% and an instrument reliability index of above 0.70, the gathered data were analysed using appropriate descriptive analytical tools. It was found that the major documents and records that have the level of importance for substantiating claims for extension of time are; time impact analysis showing the potential impact of the changes before carrying out the changes, change of work notices, claim register, programme updates, minutes of the daily, weekly, and meetings, and daily progress reports. The major disputed issues associated with claims for extension of time in construction contracts are concurrent delay, The absence of notice of delay by the contractor as required by the contract, eligibility of time extension claim, inadequate effort in mitigating the delay and poor demonstration of the impact of the delay event to the project schedule. Regular training and continuous professional development is required to enhance the skills and expertise of project administrators/managers for effective claim administration and management.