suggests Gordon. “All contracts of any significant size are bound to give rise, at some point, to contentious matters where dispute follows. The handling of these sensitive issues generally outlines the backbone of the contractor, and it takes a soundly financed organisation to overcome differences in opinion to put the client’s needs first and foremost. The conduct of the contractor at these times can put him in a class apart from his competitors.” Staff conduct generally mirrors the integrity of management, suggests Gordon. “The attitude on site, particularly the attention to detail, highlights the difference between good and poor contractors. In detailed contracts the itemised work plan, and the provisions made, determine the degree of success that will be achieved.” “Adequate staff, properly trained, fully


briefed and following a well thought-out plan of action, give confidence to the most sceptical client. Generally, the client knows little of the detail of execution, and it is the integrity of the contractor’s management and staff that determine the cost-effectiveness of the work undertaken.”


Extra costs on site are inevitable. Detailed plans and contract documents are only a guide and cannot accommodate unforeseen circumstances that are bound to arise. There are, in general, two types of extra costs:


• those where there is scope for improvement at extra cost where there is added benefit to the client


• those inevitable costs that arise due to unforeseen situations, often due to soil and weather conditions


“Without an unbiased mediating consultant at times of extra claims,” continues Gordon, “it all hinges on the contractor’s approach and his attitude to the contract. There is the natural conflict of interest. The contractor wants just reward for any extra work, whilst the client, uninformed as he often is, is looking to save costs and achieve the most cost-effective result. The conduct of contracting staff at this time is the key. Disputes can easily sour a contract and early settlement of differences of opinion is essential. Left to the end of the contract, when memories have faded, there can be unnecessary haggling and ill feeling.” First impressions can be profound. The equipment transported to site in preparation of the works ahead gives an immediate insight of what may be expected. The selection, condition and


Sports Turf Maintenance, Renovation, Construction and Drainage.


Midlands Based Tel: 01455 220767


Mobile: Phil 07747864677 Mobile: David 07760317410


Email: enquiries@woodwardturfcare.co.uk www.woodwardturfcare.co.uk


Quality Land Drainage Systems for Sports Pitches, Golf Courses and other Amenity Areas


• Advice, design and installation


• Piped systems • Sand slitting • Gravel banding


Whatever your requirement few companies can rival our capability and expertise so please contact us and we will be happy to help and advise.


‘big enough to cope, small enough to care’


Tel: 01359 259424 Fax: 01359 258073 Web: www.milesdrainage.co.uk


Email: trenchers@milesdrainage.co.uk 55


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