Time extensions in construction contracts
Construction contracts generally allow the construction period to be extended where there is a delay that is not the contractor's fault. In the United States, this is described as a time extension. The UK equivalent is 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 a time extension, the contractor gives written notice to the contract administrator identifying the relevant event that has caused the delay. Time extensions are granted based on the contractor being able to demonstrate that the delay was caused by events beyond their control. The contract guidelines typically specify the provision of time extension requests.
There are various circumstances in which time extension requests will be valid, including:
- Delays are caused by the owner changing the design.
- A delayed start to the works by request of the owner.
- Site conditions (e.g. sub-surface conditions) that differ from the project plans.
- Exceptionally adverse weather.
- Variations to the original scope or contract required by the owner.
- Force majeure.
- Legal issues that affect project completion or the contractor’s performance.
- The supply of materials and goods by the owner.
There are various circumstances in which time extension requests will be deemed invalid, including:
- Delays are caused by subcontractors.
- When the workforce is insufficient.
- The contractor underperforms, i.e. by procuring long-lead items.
- Delays caused by normal adverse weather conditions.
- Where there is inadequate evidence that irrecoverable delays have not been caused by the contractor.
In order for a time extension to be granted it is important that the contractor is transparent and communicative in their dealings with the owner and the project team. The project manager must be informed at the earliest opportunity and, if they deem it valid, they will submit a formal time extension request. For further information, see What should be included in a time extension request?
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Buildings that changed the future of architecture. Book review.
The Sustainability Pathfinder© Handbook
Built environment agency launches free Pathfinder© tool to help businesses progress sustainability strategies.
Government outcome to the late payment consultation, ECA reacts.
IHBC 2025 Gus Astley Student Award winners
Work on the role of hewing in UK historic conservation a win for Jack Parker of Oxford Brookes University.
Future Homes Building Standards and plug-in solar
Parts F and L amendments, the availability of solar panels and industry responses.
How later living housing can help solve the housing crisis
Unlocking homes, unlocking lives.
Preparing safety case reports for HRBs under the BSA
A new practical guide to preparing structural inputs for safety cases and safety case reports published by IStructE.
Male construction workers and prostate cancer
CIOB and Prostate Cancer UK encourage awareness of prostate cancer risks, and what to do about it.
The changed R&D tax landscape for Architects
Specialist gives a recap on tax changes for Research and Development, via the ACA newsletter.
Structured product data as a competitive advantage
NBS explain why accessible product data that works across digital systems is key.
Welsh retrofit workforce assessment
Welsh Government report confirms Wales faces major electrical skills shortage, warns ECA.
A now architectural practice looks back at its concept project for a sustainable oceanic settlement 25 years on.
Copyright and Artificial Intelligence
Government report and back track on copyright opt out for AI training but no clear preferred alternative as yet.
Embedding AI tools into architectural education
Beyond the render: LMU share how student led research is shaping the future of visualisation workflows.
Why document control still fails UK construction projects
A Chartered Quantity Surveyor explains what needs to change and how.
Inspiration for a new 2026 wave of Irish construction professionals.
New planning reforms and Warm Homes Bill
Take centre stage at UK Construction Week London.