Delay Compensation

Understanding Contractor Delay Compensation in Construction Projects

Disputes over who is responsible for delays in construction projects can quickly become complex and emotionally charged. Before the parties can even begin to discuss money, they must first establish a shared understanding of what actually caused the delay and how much it affected the progress of the works. In theory this sounds straightforward; in practice, it is often anything but simple. [0]

Once there is agreement on responsibility, the next challenge is to agree on the financial consequences. When the contractor is responsible, calculating liquidated damages is usually relatively clear. However, where the client (employer) is responsible for a delay, the parties often have very different views on what kind of loss the contractor can legitimately claim as compensation. [0]

Too often, this turns into a kind of theatre: the client denies that the contractor has suffered any significant loss, while the contractor responds with a claim that exceeds the contractor’s actual loss. This briefing is designed to cut through that drama and give both sides a more solid footing. [0]

Who is this event for?

This event is particularly relevant for:

• Contractors and subcontractors involved in construction projects
• Clients/employers and their project managers
• Consultants, contract managers and in-house legal teams
• Anyone who negotiates, administers or advises on construction contracts and delay claims

What you will learn

Our goal is to make it easier for both contractors and clients to navigate what the contractor is actually entitled to, how the claim should be calculated, and how the contractor can best explain and substantiate the claim. During the session, you will be guided through the key rules and receive practical advice on how both parties can handle discussions about delay compensation in a more structured and evidence-based way. [0]

Key topics

The briefing will address, among other things: [0]

• Types of recoverable loss – Which categories of loss the contractor may claim as compensation when the client is responsible for delay.
• Quantifying and documenting the claim – How the contractor can calculate the loss, structure the claim and present convincing documentation.
• Typical disputes and pitfalls – The most common points of disagreement between contractor and client, and how to avoid the traps that often derail negotiations.

Format and duration

This event is organised as a focused briefing, giving you a concentrated overview of the legal framework and practical tools you can apply directly in your projects. The exact date, time and format will follow the official event listing.

Your instructor

The briefing is led by Attorney Anders Jost Buch, who will guide you through the applicable rules and share concrete recommendations on how contractors and clients can more constructively navigate discussions about contractor delay compensation. [0]

Whether you are currently handling a delay claim or simply want to be better prepared for future projects, this event will equip you with a clearer understanding of rights, obligations and best practices when it comes to delay compensation in construction.