COMPUTERIZED SYSTEM FOR ASSESSING ENGINEERING-RELATED CLAIMS

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Structural Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, Egypt.

Abstract

Construction projects are usually associated with delays, which raise claims. These
claims are essentially time-consuming for both employer and contractor and are
considered costly element in construction projects. For employers, delays mean loss
of revenues due to lack of production of incomplete facility. While, for contractors,
delays cause higher overhead costs due to extending construction period, escalation of
material costs, wage increases, and application of a liquidated damage and penalties.
This paper presents a computerized system, dedicated to assess construction projects’
delay claims (due to engineering-related attributes). The system is capable to identify
the party(ies), which has (have) caused that delay. The proposed system is generic and
can be used by all project parties. It can be used by the employer or contractor who
plans to submit a claim in such a way that it helps in knowing ahead whether s/he is
entitled for the claim or not. Also, it can be used by the engineer to support the
decision of acceptance/rejection of the submitted claim. The system is considered a
great aiding tool for arbitrators who have little or no engineering knowledge.