Construction Law
The 5 Stages of a Construction Project
Construction projects are a collection of components that must flawlessly come together in order for a project to reach completion. Despite the many difficulties that come with project management, the stages of a construction project remain universal across the industry.
In this article, a Denver construction lawyer will be discussing the five stages of a construction project and the complications that emerge before, during, and after a project. If you are ever faced with a legal complication that threatens project completion, consult with one of our Denver construction lawyers at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
1. Conception
It’s hard to believe that so many buildings, bridges, and roadways begin as a single idea. Not long after that lightbulb goes off, an alliance is formed that consists of contractors, designers, and material suppliers. Preliminary studies are performed to determine potential costs, deadlines, and project feasibility. Once a project is determined to be not only possible but also profitable, the planning stage can commence.
2. Planning
This is the most important stage for mitigating legal disputes on project sites. During this stage, the designs are completed and any remaining details regarding the project plan are ironed out, including tasks, scheduling, and cost estimates for labor, materials, and tools. Once planning is completed, construction can commence.
It is during this stage that a comprehensive contract should be drawn up that details the scope of work. Even perfectly designed projects can be brought down by contracts that fail to adequately outline expectations. A well-drafted contract should also outline a payment schedule and leave no room for misinterpretation. To ensure that your contracts are drafted properly and are compliant with state law, partner with one of our Denver construction attorneys.
3. Performance
Once construction begins, Contractors, subcontractors, and material providers work in unison to execute the design as instructed. During this stage, updates and status meetings are crucial in ensuring that tasks progress accordingly. It’s the job of the project manager to course correct in the event of plan deviations. If deviations cannot be corrected, they must be recorded and shared among stakeholders.
Throughout construction, communication should be maintained between stakeholders and owners not only to inform on deviations but also to build a rapport and keep project expectations realistic. An owner with unrealistic expectations will be difficult to work with and may eventually seek legal representation in the form of a Denver construction attorney.
There is no limit to the number of problems that can arise onsite. Workers can be injured. Payment disputes can emerge. Laws can inadvertently be broken. If you are concerned that your project site is in danger of succumbing to one of these issues, immediately consult with a Denver contractor lawyer.
4. Performance Monitoring
Occurring simultaneously with the performance stage, this stage is all about monitoring project performance and making sure that tasks remain on schedule. In the event of a delay, project managers can make adjustments to ensure product delivery. Adjustments may include scheduling overtime, bringing on temporary workers, and altering tasks downstream.
No construction project goes unchanged from conception to execution. As complications arise and schedules fluctuate, it’s important that project managers remain flexible in the face of challenges. A project manager that is unwilling to bend plans accordingly is sure to break.
5. Completion
Deliverables have been provided to the owner, and what was once a concept on paper is now a completed structure. But your job isn’t done yet. Contracts are terminated, resources are released, and team members are rewarded during this final stage. A final budget and report are created, and project closure is communicated between all stakeholders.
This stage is crucial for ensuring that you can move on from a project without being entangled in a legal dispute. Construction defects may be found, or an unsatisfied owner may retain payment. Either of these circumstances can lead to a drawn-out legal dispute that you can’t afford to lose.
Partner with an Attorney
In this industry, a legal dispute can easily tie up resources and inhibit contractors from moving on to future projects. Cash flow issues can mean bankruptcy for even the most steadfast of construction companies. To ensure that your company progresses smoothly and lawfully from one project to the next, partner with the Denver contractor attorneys at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
If you would like to speak with one of our Denver contractor lawyers, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.