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Industry Glossary Term

Right-Of-Way Contractor

A subcontractor hired to clear, prepare, and restore land corridors for pipelines, powerlines, or roads. Work typically includes timber clearing, grading, and post-construction reclamation. ROW (Right-of-Way) scopes are often short-duration but require specialised equipment and landowner coordination.

Related Terms

AFE (Authorization for Expenditure)

Industry

A budgeting document used in oil and gas projects that outlines expected costs and seeks approval before work begins. Subcontractors often work under AFEs issued by operators.

Turnkey

Industry

A contract where the subcontractor delivers a fully completed scope for a fixed price, assuming all cost and schedule risk. The client pays only upon project completion, not for time or materials spent. This model demands tight cost control, as overruns come directly out of your margin.

Hydrovac

Industry

A truck-mounted unit that uses pressurised water and a vacuum system to excavate soil safely around buried utilities. Subcontractors are frequently hired for hydrovac work on pipeline, civil, and utility projects. It is preferred over mechanical digging in areas with high strike risk.

Grid-Tie

Industry

A system that connects on-site power generation to the utility grid. Subcontractors working on grid-tie installations must coordinate with utility companies and meet strict interconnection standards. Common on solar and wind projects in remote industrial or construction settings.

VDC (Virtual Design and Construction)

Industry

A project delivery approach that combines 3D modelling, scheduling, and cost data into a single digital environment. Subcontractors use VDC to coordinate scope, reduce field conflicts, and plan work sequences before boots hit the ground. Early involvement in VDC workflows can help subs identify clashes, price work more accurately, and avoid costly rework.

Sequencing (construction)

Industry

The planned order in which construction tasks must be completed before the next trade can begin work. Subcontractors depend on accurate sequencing to schedule crews and avoid costly downtime. Delays in one phase can push back your mobilisation and affect your invoicing schedule.

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