Construction progress claim review checklist
A principal, superintendent, or their advisor must review each progress claim against the contract, schedule of rates, and SOPA. This checklist is for construction lawyers and contract administrators.
This is a 12-step checklist for reviewing a contractor progress claim as principal or superintendent. It covers entitlement, valuation, and payment schedule drafting.
The checklist
Confirm claim receipt
Confirm date of receipt and reference date of the claim under the contract.
Check SOPA endorsement
Check whether the claim is endorsed as a SOPA payment claim triggering statutory deadlines.
Verify contract terms
Review the payment clause for claim timing, valuation method, and certification process.
Match claim to schedule of rates
Match claimed quantities to the schedule of rates or lump sum breakdown.
Verify work completed
Confirm the claimed work has been completed through site inspection or photos.
Review variations claimed
Check whether claimed variations have been approved and priced under the contract.
Check EOT and delay claims
Review any EOT or delay cost claims for compliance with notice clauses.
Deduct retention
Apply contractual retention deductions or trust account deductions.
Deduct LDs
Apply any accrued liquidated damages after practical completion.
Prepare payment schedule
Prepare a payment schedule stating the scheduled amount and reasons for withholding.
Serve payment schedule
Serve the payment schedule within 10 business days to avoid SOPA consequences.
Certify payment
Certify the final payment amount for payment by the due date.
When this checklist applies
Use each month or milestone when reviewing a contractor progress claim.
Common pitfalls
- Missing the SOPA 10 business day deadline
- Variations claimed that were never approved
- Quantities not verified on site
- Retention not deducted
- Reasons for withholding insufficient in payment schedule
Run this checklist on a real matter
Quillio can review a progress claim, match to the schedule of rates, and draft a payment schedule. See /practice-areas/construction-lawyers or start a free trial.
General guidance for progress claim reviews. Always apply the relevant state SOPA and contract provisions.
Use this checklist on your matter.
Quillio can run this checklist on a specific NSW conveyancing matter — confirm each item, calculate adjustments, and generate the supporting documents. The free trial requires no credit card.
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