A contract provision allowing subcontractors to adjust their rates when material, labour, or fuel costs rise beyond a set threshold. It protects field service companies from absorbing unexpected cost increases on long-term projects. Without one, subcontractors are locked into original pricing regardless of market changes.
Cost-Escalation Clause
Related Terms
Net 30/Net 45/Net 60
Cash FlowPayment terms indicating when payment is due after invoice date. Net 30 means payment within 30 days. Many operators use Net 45 or Net 60, extending subcontractor cash cycles.
Price Book
Cash FlowA document listing agreed-upon rates for various services, equipment, and materials between an operator and contractor. Field tickets are validated against the price book before approval.
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.
Wholesale Cost
Cash FlowThe base price a subcontractor pays to source materials, equipment, or supplies before adding markup. Understanding wholesale cost helps field service companies price jobs accurately and protect margins. It is the starting point for calculating billable rates to clients.
PPI (Producer Price Index)
Cash FlowA government measure tracking price changes for goods and services at the producer level. Subcontractors use it to justify rate increases on long-term contracts when input costs rise. It also supports escalation clause negotiations with operators and prime contractors.
Close-Out
Cash FlowThe final phase of a contract where all work is confirmed complete, documentation is submitted, and outstanding invoices are settled. For subcontractors, delays in close-out often mean delayed final payment. Completing punch lists, timesheets, and lien waivers promptly helps accelerate the process.
Latest Cash Flow News
Trump Administration Appeals Ruling Blocking Hudson Tunnel Funding Freeze
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Nearly nine years after Hurricane Maria, Mammoth Energy subsidiary Cobra Acquisitions is still collecting on Puerto Rico power restoration invoices, with $20 million outstanding as of June 2026, OK Energy Today reports.
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The Gordie Howe International Bridge between Windsor and Detroit opened to pedestrians and cyclists this week, following last week's opening to motorists, according to a Canadian Press report via Daily Commercial News.
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You did the work. The project was cancelled, shelved, or never activated. Here is what subcontractors need to know about billing rights, legal remedies, and how to get paid when no one wants to discuss the invoice.
Cash Flow GuidePost-Completion Warranty and Punch Work: Protecting Your Margins After the Job Ends
Warranty walks, punch lists, and post-completion callbacks eat into subcontractor margins. Learn how MSA warranty clauses work, when you can push back on mobilization costs, and how to document your way out of disputes.
Cash Flow GuideMechanic's Lien Rights for Subcontractors: What to Do When You're Not Getting Paid
A practical guide to mechanic's lien and materialman's lien rights for oilfield and construction subcontractors in Texas, Oklahoma, and Alberta — deadlines, filing steps, and leverage tactics.
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