What are Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)?

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.

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.

Progress Billing is a method commonly used in the construction industry, where billing for a project is done at different stages as it progresses, rather than asking for full payment upfront or at the completion of the project. This type of billing is beneficial both for constructors and clients. For constructors, it helps maintain the cash flow required for the ongoing expense of materials and labor. For clients, it provides assurance that they are paying for the work only as it is being completed and allows them to budget effectively. Each invoice is usually based on the percentage of work completed, thus it is also known as percentage-of-completion billing method. Proper documentation, like progress reports or photos of the construction site, often accompany these invoices as a proof of progress.