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View Full Version : Contractors lawful rights to do some portions of added works in a Contract


Samuel1968
Feb 26, 2014, 06:14 AM
My company is involved in a project for rehabilitating a sewerage network. All the works included in the Contract has been completed. The Client has seen a need for some extra works which require procurement of materials. The supply period for the new materials would entail the Contractor's personnel being idle for a long period, whereas the Contractor wishes to move to another new project. Are there any legal grounds through which the Contractor can refuse to undertake these new works?

ebaines
Feb 26, 2014, 06:45 AM
As I understand it, the terms of the original contract have been fully met by the contractor, so presumably he can be paid and is free to move on to whatever other projects he likes, and is under no obligation to take on a new project for the same client. I'm curious as to why you think there may be some legal requirement for the contractor to take on additional work - is there language in the contract that raises this possibility?

Samuel1968
Feb 26, 2014, 06:53 AM
Thanks for your prompt response. The only issue here is that the said works was included as a variation, after some savings were made on the original contract works.

Fr_Chuck
Feb 26, 2014, 07:52 AM
If there is a actual variation, then it would be in writing with specifics and signed.

Any signed contract has to be honored.

But this is the life of a contractor, first you may move employees and start other work, then most all or part of them back to finish this job. That is not uncommon at all. Or hire additional sub contractors to go back in and finish.