Situation

A subcontractor is tasked with tiling the top floors of an apartment building when the client requests a color change to suit premium units. This adjustment requires the subcontractor to reissue a delay notice, initially citing the need to procure new tiles as a contract variation. Confident this will cover the delay, they await confirmation.

Problem

The main contractor rejects the claim, arguing that alternative tiles are available on-site, and delays are unnecessary. The subcontractor resubmits the claim, now pointing to unavailable lifts, which are occupied by other trades. Once again, the main contractor argues that delays could be mitigated by using the stairs. Finally, the subcontractor accurately identifies that both lifts and stairs are inaccessible due to additional worksite testing, but by this time, they miss the contract’s notification period, leading to an outright rejection of the delay claim under the time bar provision. This series of inconsistent notifications and missed timelines ultimately prevents the subcontractor from securing compensation for the delay.

Outcome Without Commercial Mate

Without commercial support, the subcontractor faces multiple rejections due to inconsistent delay notifications and a lack of clear, timely communication. Each resubmission wastes time and effort, and, despite legitimate delay reasons, they miss the chance to claim compensation due to procedural non-compliance. The result is a significant financial and productivity loss on the project.

Outcome With Commercial Mate

Clarity on Variation Claims
With Commercial Mate, the subcontractor would receive guidance on accurately identifying and submitting claims for variations, helping them correctly cite contract requirements and potential delays upfront.

Accurate Documentation and Delay Notices
Using delay notification templates, the subcontractor could have captured and communicated the delay cause clearly from the start, avoiding the need for multiple re-submissions and strengthening their position for approval.

Timely Submission Reminders
With proactive reminders and advice from Commercial Mate, the subcontractor would stay on top of time-sensitive submissions, ensuring all delay notices are compliant with contract timelines.

Strategic Claim Management
Commercial Mate’s expert consultations would guide the subcontractor in handling access limitations, ensuring a thorough, contract-compliant approach to resolve the issue efficiently.

With Commercial Mate, the subcontractor would have minimized rejections, accurately documented delays, and secured rightful compensation by following the correct process from the outset.

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