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Cash Flow Glossary Term

Joint Check

A payment cheque issued by a general contractor made payable to both the subcontractor and their supplier or creditor simultaneously. It ensures supplier invoices are paid directly from project funds, reducing lien risk. Subcontractors must endorse the cheque alongside the named party before cashing it.

Related Terms

CWIP (Construction Work in Progress)

Cash Flow

An accounting category tracking costs for projects not yet complete or placed into service. For subcontractors, your invoiced work may sit in a client's CWIP account until project completion. This can affect payment timing and how clients prioritise approving your billings.

Early Payment Discount

Cash Flow

A reduced invoice amount offered to prime contractors or clients who pay before the standard due date. Common terms like 2/10 Net 30 mean a 2% discount if paid within 10 days. Subcontractors must weigh the cash-flow benefit against the revenue they give up.

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.

Backcharge

Cash Flow

A charge issued by an operator or general contractor to a subcontractor for costs incurred due to defective work, delays, or failure to meet contractual obligations.

Geopolitical Risk Premium

Cash Flow

An added cost built into project contracts to account for instability in regions where work is performed. For subcontractors, it affects bid pricing, insurance rates, and mobilisation costs. Clients in high-risk areas may pay elevated day rates to secure reliable field crews.

Baseload

Cash Flow

A guaranteed minimum volume of work contracted over a set period. For subcontractors, baseload provides predictable revenue and justifies keeping crews and equipment on standby. It is the foundation around which additional spot or call-out work is scheduled.

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