Contract administration is the independent management of building contracts from instruction through to practical completion and the end of the defects liability period. Westminster’s commercial fit-out and refurbishment market requires contract administrators who understand the complexities of working in occupied buildings, managing phased programmes and maintaining the highest standards of quality control.
Commercial fit-out projects in Westminster frequently involve tight programmes, high specification requirements and the need to minimise disruption to ongoing business operations. Our contract administrators bring the rigour and independence needed to manage these contracts effectively, from initial instruction and mobilisation through interim valuations, variation management and handover.
Our RICS regulated practice provides contract administration from our Hampstead NW3 office, with extensive experience of managing commercial fit-out and refurbishment contracts across Westminster for occupiers, landlords, investors and managing agents.
Review of contract documentation, conditions of engagement and contractor appointments. We establish reporting procedures, communication protocols and the framework for effective contract administration from day one.
Regular site inspections to monitor quality and progress against programme. We assess interim payment applications, certify valuations, issue architect’s instructions and manage variations in accordance with the contract terms.
Thorough inspection and assessment of works at practical completion, preparation of snagging lists and certification. We ensure that all contractual obligations are met before the building is handed over to the client.
Management of the defects liability period including notification of defects to the contractor, monitoring of remedial works and certification of making good. We issue the final certificate once all obligations are discharged.
End-to-end project management for building works and refurbishment.
View ServiceRICS regulated building condition surveys for residential and commercial property.
View ServiceManagement of cladding replacement and external wall remediation works.
View ServiceA contract administrator acts as the impartial certifier under a building contract. They issue instructions to the contractor, value interim payment applications, assess variations and extensions of time, inspect works on site, certify practical completion and manage the defects liability period. Their role is to ensure the contract is administered fairly and in accordance with its terms.
Contract administration fees in Westminster are typically calculated as a percentage of the contract value, ranging from around 3 to 8 percent depending on the scale and complexity of the project. For smaller projects, a fixed fee may be agreed. We provide a detailed fee proposal once the scope of works is understood.
We administer all standard JCT contract forms including the Minor Works Building Contract, Intermediate Building Contract, Standard Building Contract and Design and Build Contract. We also work with bespoke contracts and can advise on the most appropriate form for your project in Westminster.
Yes, we can be appointed as contract administrator on a project that is already underway. We will review all contract documentation, site records and correspondence to date and ensure a seamless transition. This is particularly common where the original contract administrator has become unavailable or where the client wishes to appoint an independent replacement.