Dayworks in construction
Daywork is a means by which a contractor is paid for specifically instructed work on the basis of the cost of labour, materials and plant plus a mark up for overheads and profit. It is generally used when work cannot be priced in the normal way.
NRM2, RICS new rules of measurement, Detailed measurement for building work defines daywork as; '... the method of valuing work on the basis of time spent by the contractor’s workpeople, the materials used and the plant employed.'
Examples of when daywork may be applied are when unforeseen obstructions are encountered during ground works or when work is instructed for which there are no comparative rates in a bill of quantities.
It is usual for most contracts to contain clauses that provide a method of evaluating variations, additional work and instructions by using existing contract rates and prices. NEC contracts favour pre-agreed sums based on acceptance of a contractor’s quotation.
There are two basic options as to how daywork rates can be priced:
Option A – a percentage addition
- Prime cost to which a percentage is added for overheads, profit and incidental costs.
Option B – all inclusive rates
- All inclusive rates are quoted at tender and incorporated in the contract documents. These include an allowance for overheads and profit, either fixed for the period of the contract, or, in the case of contract conditions that are index linked, subject to an inflation allowance.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Comments
There is a great mobile phone App that lets you quickly create a daywork or just a resource estimate and send it to the office in minutes, the App date stamps start and finish photos to help you prove the record is a true reflection of the works. It also allows you to quickly get pre-authorisation of the daywork prior to starting the works. Here's the link http://www.constructionrates.co.uk/Rate_Gen/Android_Mobile_Tablet_Smart_Phone_Daywork_App_UK_Construction_Industry.htm