CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

The contract administrator is responsible for administering the terms of the contract and has historically been performed by the architect. However, recently this has diversified and the quantity surveyor is perfectly placed as someone who understands the contract in depth and can interpret and apply the terms and conditions.

When issuing certificates or confirming instructions and decisions, the contract administrator has to act impartially and reasonably. MPA ensure that their role as contract administrator is carried out with a clear, understandable and rational approach keeping all parties fully informed of decisions and the basis of these actions.

The contract administrator's role will generally include:

• Administrating change control procedures and issuing instructions.
• Confirming instructions with the client in relation to the contract.
• Issuing payment certificates and certificates of practical completion.
• Collating and issuing schedules of defects.
• Issuing the certificate of making good defects and the final certificate.
• Considering and providing advice on claims submitted by the contractor.

Following the RIBA Plan of Work, the following are the key points where a Contract Administrator would provide a service (click to enlarge):