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Cost Plus Billing
What is Cost Plus Billing?
Cost Plus Billing in the construction industry refers to a method where the customer agrees to cover the actual costs, expenses and other direct costs of the construction project plus an additional sum for contractor’s overhead and profit. These typically include costs of materials, labor, and subcontractor charges. The agreement clearly establishes and defines what is constituted as cost, the overhead percentage, and the profit percentage, reducing the risk of any surprise costs. Essentially, the 'Cost' represents the direct costs of the construction, while the 'Plus' is the contractor's fee and is usually agreed upon as a fixed percentage of the total costs or as a target price with a shared savings clause.
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Other construction terms
What is a Surety?
A Surety, in the context of the construction industry, refers to a third-party entity that provides a guarantee or assurance to a project owner or client that a contractor will fulfill all obligations outlined in a contract. It is typically seen in the form of a surety bond, which protects the project owner against financial losses if the contractor fails to perform or complete the project as per their contractual obligations. The surety bears the risk of contractor's default and is legally responsible to either finance the project to completion or find an alternative contractor. The use of surety is common in projects, especially public construction projects, to ensure their successful completion.
What are Indirect Costs?
Indirect costs, in the context of the construction industry, are expenses not directly tied to a specific project, but are essential for the overall operation of a construction firm. They represent the expenditures that do not contribute to the building process directly, yet they are crucial for the smooth running of projects. Such costs could include administrative expenses like office rent, utilities, and salaries of personnel not active on the field but are involved in management, planning, or supervision. Other examples include insurance, security, equipment depreciation, and legal fees. Understanding indirect costs is key to accurate budgeting and financial control in construction projects. Failure to consider these costs can lead to a significant underestimation of the actual project cost, leading to financial losses. Therefore, contractors need to accurately factor indirect costs into their pricing to secure profitability.
What is a Contractor?
A contractor in the construction industry is a professional who is tasked with the responsibility of managing and executing construction projects. This could be anything from building houses to constructing bridges. They are often employed by construction companies but can also work independently. Contractors coordinate all the services required for a construction project, such as acquiring necessary permits, hiring specialised subcontractors, sourcing materials and equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are adhered to. Their role is crucial in ensuring the project is completed within the stipulated timeline, budget, and conforms to building codes and plans. They act as the main point of contact for clients, architects, and builders involved in the project, ensuring smooth communication and resolving any issues that arise. Therefore, a contractor plays a key role in the successful completion of any construction project.
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