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Cash FlowGlossary Term

Bridging Power

A subcontractor's ability to fund operations while waiting on client payments. It covers payroll, fuel, and equipment costs between invoice and payment. Strong bridging power prevents work stoppages during slow pay cycles.

Related Terms

Project Financing

Cash Flow

A funding structure where a specific project secures its own debt and equity, separate from the sponsor's balance sheet. For subcontractors, payment depends heavily on the project's cash flow rather than the owner's overall finances. This increases payment risk, making it critical to review contract terms and security provisions carefully.

Contingent Payment

Cash Flow

Payment tied to a specific condition being met, such as project completion or client approval. Subcontractors must track these triggers carefully to invoice on time. Delayed conditions can create serious cash-flow gaps in the field.

Unplanned Outage

Cash Flow

A sudden, unscheduled shutdown of equipment or operations that halts field work without prior notice. For subcontractors, it often triggers standby time disputes and delayed milestone billing. Contracts should clearly define compensation terms for crew and equipment during unplanned downtime.

Well Abandonment Liability

Cash Flow

The legal and financial obligation to properly plug and decommission a well at end of life. For subcontractors, unpaid invoices near abandonment projects carry higher collection risk. Operators may deprioritise vendor payments as they wind down a well's operations.

Material Escalation

Cash Flow

A contract provision allowing price adjustments when material costs rise above a set threshold. Subcontractors use it to recover cost increases on longer-duration projects. Without it, unexpected price spikes in steel, pipe, or consumables come directly out of your margin.

Operating Days

Cash Flow

The number of days equipment or crews are actively deployed and generating billable revenue on a job site. Subcontractors use this figure to track utilisation, forecast earnings, and negotiate day-rate contracts. Downtime, mobilisation delays, or weather shutdowns typically do not count as operating days.

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