By clicking “Accept All Cookies," you agree to let Siteline store cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
FREE WEBINAR: Top 10 Billing Best Practices for Commercial Subcontractors
Register Now →
Construction glossary

What are Fixed Assets?

Fixed assets, also known as property, plant, and equipment (PPE), are long-term tangible assets owned by a business for the production, supply, or rental to customers. Within the construction industry, these assets are essential as they are not only used in day-to-day operations but are crucial for long-term business growth. They encompass a broad range of items such as buildings, heavy machinery, land, vehicles, and other tools or equipment. These assets are distinguished by their durability and are not to be sold throughout regular business operations. The value of fixed assets is reflected on the balance sheet and it decreases over time due to normal wear and tear, also known as depreciation. Real estate, construction equipment like cranes or bulldozers, and even software used for project planning are some examples of fixed assets in the construction industry. They are considered investments because their utilization helps to generate income.

Trusted by trade contractors across the country

Other construction terms

ASC 606

What is ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers?

ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, is an accounting standard that provides a comprehensive, industry-neutral revenue recognition model intended to increase financial statement comparability across companies and industries. For the construction industry, it has substantial implications as it changes how and when revenue from contracts is recognized. Under this model, construction companies recognize revenue by transferring promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration they expect to receive. ASC 606 can affect a construction company's financial statements, operations, and tax obligations. It demands that companies disclose more detailed revenue and contract information than before. Therefore, understanding ASC 606 is critical for construction industry stakeholders to assess a company's performance and future prospects accurately.

Debit

What is a Debit?

A debit, in the construction industry, refers to an entry which represents an increase in expenses or a decrease in income for the business. It could come from paying for labor, materials, overheads, or any other costs related to a construction project. It could also come from a decrease in revenue due to a project delay, change in project scope, or a decrease in clients' payment. An understanding of debits is pivotal in managing the financial aspects of construction because it affects cash flow and profitability. The term is part of the double-entry accounting system used widely across industries, including construction, where for every debit entry, there must be a corresponding credit entry. Therefore, properly tracking and categorizing debits is crucial in financial planning and management in construction.

Lender

What is a Lender?

A lender, in the context of the construction industry, is a bank, financial institution, or a private individual that provides funds for construction projects. They lend money with the understanding that the amount will be returned, often with interest, as per the terms of a loan agreement. The borrower can be a contractor, real estate developer, or a homeowner needing funding for a building or renovation project. Lenders assess the viability of the projects and the borrower's solvency before loan approval. They play a vital role in construction financing, facilitating economic growth by enabling infrastructure development. They also manage risks by using construction loans that follow a draw schedule that matches the construction stages, ensuring the project's timely completion. Ultimately, lenders power the various construction operations, providing necessary liquidity and fostering business growth and expansion.

Ready to end the fire drill and get paid faster?

Replace the spreadsheets and runarounds with Siteline, and see your invoice aging improve by at least 30%.
many forms with different layouts