The rate at which labour, materials, and equipment costs rise over time on construction projects. For subcontractors, it can erode fixed-price contract margins if bids don't account for escalating costs. Escalation clauses in contracts help protect against unexpected cost increases during long-duration scopes.
Construction Inflation
Related Terms
Iadc Ddr (international Association of Drilling Contractors Daily Drilling Report)
Cash FlowA standardised daily report documenting rig operations, hours worked, and downtime on a drilling project. Subcontractors often must align their own daily reports with the IADC DDR for invoicing and performance verification. Discrepancies between your records and the DDR can delay payment or trigger billing disputes.
Bridging Power
Cash FlowA 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.
Capped-Call Transactions
Cash FlowA financial tool used by larger contractors to manage costs when issuing convertible debt. It limits share dilution, helping protect company ownership structure. Subcontractors may see clients reference these when explaining capital raise decisions affecting project budgets.
Spot Price
Cash FlowThe current market rate for materials, fuel, or equipment rentals purchased for immediate delivery. Spot prices fluctuate daily, directly affecting your job cost estimates and margins. Locking in rates early can protect subcontractors from sudden price spikes mid-project.
Liquidated Damages
Cash FlowA pre-agreed financial penalty charged when a subcontractor misses deadlines or fails to meet contract milestones. The amount is fixed in the contract, not calculated after the fact. LDs can seriously erode your project margins if schedule risks aren't managed upfront.
Early Termination Option
Cash FlowA contract clause allowing the hiring company to end a service agreement before the scheduled completion date. Subcontractors may receive a penalty payment, but it is rarely full contract value. Always clarify demobilisation costs and notice periods before signing.
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