An Extension of Time (EOT) can be either prospective, or retrospective. Any project faces delays and disruptions especially the mega/complex projects. Preparing EOT/delay and/or disruption is not an easy task and it is a time-consuming process especially in the mega/complex projects with thousands of activities, lots of details and interfaces with the involvement of many stakeholders.

General risk factors for employers include the following:

Delayed transfer of the job site
• Except as may be agreed in the contract, no portion of the permanent works may be used or occupied by the employer.
• Physically different from what was offered during the tender stage
• Modifications to the scope of the first contract
• Engineering deliverable that is late
• Late deliverables for purchases
• Changes for engineering deliverables on a regular basis
• Delay in approval over the contractually permitted amount
• Postponed payment
• Deliverables for engineering and procurement are not in order
• Putting an end to the work
• Unfavourable climate conditions
• Alterations to the project’s requirements
• Force majeure (civil war, conflicts, invasion, terrorism, sabotage committed by parties other than the contractor’s employees).
• Subterranean utilities that are already in place but are not depicted on the as-built plan that the contractor got during the tendering process.

How can I submit an effective Extension of Time (EOT) claim?

To successfully submit an Extension of Time (EOT) claim, contractors must provide documentation to back up any additional expenses they are seeking payment for. Here are some suggestions that might be useful; look over your contract, one must carefully study the contract, understand it, and be aware of the provisions controlling requests for extension of time. Depending on the requirements, you may have to provide notices by a certain date or risk losing your right to file a claim. You should be informed of the valid reasons for supporting your claims.