What you need to know to close-out your construction project successfully

Some of the items which should be considered at the end of the project include:

1.        obtaining the certificate of practical completion

2.        handing over quality documentation, commissioning data, spare parts lists and warranties to the client

3.        handing over all spare parts and client-purchased materials to the client

4.        getting the release of sureties or bonds and returning them to the institution which issued them

5.        requesting the release of retention

6.        putting items of equipment off-hire and transferring them from site

7.        clearing unused materials

8.        moving personnel records to the head office

9.        sorting, filing and archiving project documentation

10.     agreeing the final accounts with the client

11.     settling accounts with subcontractors and suppliers

12.     moving personnel records to the head office

13.     submitting the final project invoice to the client

14.     demobilising all offices and facilities

15.     reinstating laydown areas and access roads, including obtaining signed acceptance from the client

16.     handing back all accommodation

17.     disconnecting services

18.     transferring or terminating personnel

19.     disposing of project-purchased assets

20.     completing the final cost report

The completion schedule/programme

To facilitate the timely completion of the project a completion schedule should be prepared near the end of the project. This would include:

1.        finishing the outstanding items

2.        commissioning

3.        connecting to existing services and structures

4.        completion of the contractor’s punch-list items

5.        final punch-listing by the client

6.        preparation of hand-over documentation such as quality records, commissioning results, operating manuals and guarantees

7.        clearing of the temporary site facilities and services

Conclusion

Closing out a project can often be a complicated and time-consuming process that is underestimated and overlooked by Project Managers and staff who may already be anticipating moving to their next projects. If proper planning and preparation is done at an early stage the close out process will be much simpler. It will save costs and frustration to both the client and the contractor’s staff.

How you finish a construction project is often how the client remembers the construction company!

(Paul Netscher is the author of the acclaimed books ‘Successful Construction Project Management: The Practical Guide’ and ‘Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide’. Both books are available in paperback and E-book from Amazon and other retail outlets. This article is adapted from information included in both books.