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Construction glossary
Construction Glossary •

Completed Contract

What is a Completed Contract?

A completed contract, in the context of the construction industry, is a concept relating to the financial recognition of a project. In specific accounting terms, it represents a method where all the costs and profit related to the contract are recognized only after the project has been finished and fully executed. This means neither revenues nor expenses are recorded in company books until all the work stipulated in the contract is fully accomplished. This approach contrasts with the percentage-of-completion method, which requires ongoing recognition of revenues and costs as the project advances. The completed contract method is often chosen for projects where outcome and costs are uncertain, essentially to prevent financial discrepancies.

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Other construction terms

Mortgage

What is a Mortgage?

A mortgage, within the framework of the construction industry, is essentially a loan secured by a real property through the use of a mortgage note to evidence the existence of the loan and the encumbrance of that realty. This serves a crucial financial function during the building process as it allows homeowners or builders to purchase land or property without needing the full amount upfront. In most cases, a banking institution or lender offers the borrower a certain sum to buy a property, the borrower then repays this sum, typically monthly, with added interest, over a defined period. The mortgage ties the obligation of repayment to the property itself. Hence, when a mortgage loan is used for construction of a new property, the funds are dispersed to the borrower as work on the construction project proceeds. In the event that the borrower defaults on their mortgage payments, the lender has the right to take possession of the property, in a process known as foreclosure.

Single-Entry Accounting

What is Single-Entry Accounting?

Single-entry accounting is a simplified bookkeeping method where each financial transaction is recorded only once, typically as either income or an expense. Unlike double-entry accounting, which requires balancing debits and credits across multiple accounts (asset, liability, equity, etc.), single-entry accounting functions more like a detailed checkbook register. 

It’s a simple system that works well for smaller contractors with straightforward billing. But as your projects, clients, and payment terms get more complex, it can become limiting, often requiring extra spreadsheets and manual workarounds.

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Field

What is a Field?

A field in the construction industry refers to a physical area or a project site where construction activities take place. These fields are typically outdoors, such as building sites or highway projects, and can range from open spaces to restricted and confined areas. Fieldwork involves various construction tasks like excavation, foundation setting, erecting structures, piping, and landscaping. Field operations are significant in shaping the entire construction project, influencing cost, time, quality, and safety. It's important to note that the field is where the practical application of engineering designs happens, turning blueprints into reality.

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