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Construction glossary
Construction Glossary •

General Liability Insurance

What is General Liability Insurance?

General Liability Insurance, particularly applicable to the construction industry, is a specific type of coverage that safeguards construction businesses against financial losses due to liability claims. These losses may arise from bodily injuries or property damages that occur on the construction site. It can also extend to cover slander, defamation or false advertising claims. Moreover, in the event of any such undesired incidents, the insurance policy is responsible for handling lawsuits and paying out the settlements. However, it's essential to note that general liability insurance doesn't cover damages due to professional errors or employee injuries; these would fall under professional liability insurance and workers' compensation, respectively.

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Other construction terms

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.

That’s where Siteline comes in. Built specifically for commercial subcontractors, it automates progress billing, manages custom GC requirements, and provides accurate, real-time cash tracking and reporting, helping you keep projects moving and payments on schedule. Learn more about Siteline.

Chart of Accounts

What is a Chart of Accounts?

A Chart of Accounts (COA) in the construction industry is essentially a financial organizational tool that provides a complete listing of every account in an accounting system. These accounts are typically used to categorize financial transactions that a business has to deal with to conduct its everyday operations. In construction, the COA may include accounts such as materials, labor costs, subcontractor fees, overhead expenses, equipment costs, and liabilities. Different project types will often require different charts of accounts. Furthermore, the COA assists in organizing the company's finances and ensuring accurate financial reporting, it's also important for identifying the total costs of a construction job, tracking profit margins, and analyzing expenses. It's a critical tool in managing a construction company's finances.

Income Statement

What is an Income Statement?

An Income Statement, also known as a Profit and Loss Statement, is a vital financial document used in the construction industry, providing a detailed account of a company’s revenue, costs, and expenses over a specified period. It outlines gross profits, operating profits, and net profits after considering all deductions. For construction firms, it not only includes direct incomes and expenses such as labor cost, material cost, subcontracting cost, but also share of overheads like site insurance, equipment rental. It is an essential tool used by construction firms to understand their financial health, profitability, and to make informed strategic decisions for growth and sustainability.

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