Common refusals of extensions of time
Construction contracts generally allow the construction period to be extended where there is a delay that is not the contractor's fault. This is described as an extension of time (EOT).
When it becomes reasonably apparent that there is, or that there is likely to be, a delay that could merit an extension of time, the contractor should give written notice to the contract administrator identifying the relevant event that has caused the delay. If the contract administrator accepts that the delay was caused by a relevant event, then they may grant an extension of time and the completion date is adjusted.
Common reasons for the refusal of an application for extensions of time include:
- Where the contractor has underperformed, for example, as a result of insufficient workforce or failure to obtain plant, goods or service.
- When there has been poor, but not exceptionally adverse weather.
- When the evidence or other information presented to demonstrate that the contractor has suffered irrecoverable delays is insufficient.
- If an extension of time has already been given for that event.
- Where more than one event occurs at the same time. See Concurrent delay for more information.
- The event cited does not constitute a relevant event.
- An event does not constitute force majeure.
- An event does not constitute a specified peril.
- The contractor has not taken steps to mitigate the delay
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Acceleration of construction works.
- Change order.
- Compensation event.
- Contract administrator.
- Contract claims.
- Culpable delay.
- Delay damages.
- Extension of time.
- Extension of time - approval letter example.
- How to prepare a claim for an extension of time.
- Practical completion.
- Project programme.
- Time certainty.
- Time extension.
- Time Risk Allowance TRA.
- Variations.
Featured articles and news
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.