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Cash FlowGlossary Term

Lien Rights

Legal protections allowing subcontractors to place a claim against a property or project if payment is withheld. Filing a lien can prevent an owner from selling or refinancing until your invoice is settled. Deadlines to file are strict and vary by province, so act quickly when payment stalls.

Related Terms

Unit Rate

Cash Flow

A pricing model where work is billed per unit completed (per meter drilled, per cubic meter hauled, per joint welded, etc.).

Job Costing

Cash Flow

The process of tracking all costs associated with a specific job or project, including labor, equipment, materials, and overhead. Accurate job costing is essential for understanding profitability.

DPO (Days Payable Outstanding)

Cash Flow

A measure of how long a company takes to pay its invoices after receiving them. For subcontractors, a high DPO from your client means slower payment and tighter cash flow. Tracking client DPO helps you anticipate payment delays and manage operating costs.

PPI (Producer Price Index)

Cash Flow

A 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 Flow

The 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.

FCF (Free Cash Flow)

Cash Flow

Cash remaining after covering operating costs and equipment or tool purchases. For subcontractors, strong FCF means you can take on new contracts, absorb payment delays, and avoid emergency borrowing. It is one of the clearest signs of a financially healthy field service business.

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