How do you claim for late information and RFIs?
Log each request for information with the date you asked and the date you got the answer. If the wait delayed work or added cost, give notice and claim time and money under the contract.
Start with an RFI log
An RFI is a written question to the design team or client. Log each one with a number, the date sent, the date needed and the date answered.
The date needed matters. It should link to the programme, so you can show the answer was late for a real activity.
What to show in the claim
- The contract clause on information and response times.
- The RFI log with dates.
- The programme activity that waited for the answer.
- Idle time, stand-down or re-sequencing costs.
- Any change in the answer that added work.
Give notice early
Tell the other side in writing when an answer is overdue. Say what work is waiting and what the delay may cost. Do this before the delay becomes large.
Every Australian state and territory has its own security of payment law with its own time limits. For example, Queensland sets a payment schedule due within 15 business days of the claim, so the other side must reply fast. Keep your notices on time so the claim stays open.
Related answers
Questions
What if the contract sets no response time for RFIs?
Then reasonable time usually applies. Your programme dates help show what was reasonable.
Can I claim if I asked for the answer too late?
That weakens the claim. Ask early and keep the proof of when you asked.
Need this done for your project?