Independent quantity surveying and estimating consultants

Shrewsbury, supporting projects across the UK 01743 403120 info@qsconsultants.co.uk

Explain cause and effect

Programme & Delay Analysis

Programme, chronology and delay analysis that connects events, notices, records and the contractual test.

A delay submission must explain what changed, when it changed and how it affected the relevant sequence of work. QSEC reviews the accepted or baseline programme, updates, correspondence and site records to build a coherent event chronology.

We distinguish entitlement, causation and valuation. Where information is incomplete, the analysis states its limitations and identifies the records needed to strengthen the position.

When this support is useful

  • Programmes that were not updated or issued consistently
  • Multiple events described without a clear critical effect
  • Notices and supporting records held in separate systems
  • Delay cost presented without connection to the relevant event

First, QSEC tests these issues against the current scope, contract, programme, procurement position and project records. Next, we identify matters that need an immediate decision, better evidence or a clearly owned risk allowance. As a result, the team can focus on urgent commercial actions within the wider review.

Typical deliverables

  • Baseline and update review
  • Event chronology and record index
  • Impacted-programme narrative
  • Extension-of-time support
  • Loss-and-expense or prolongation assessment
  • Response and negotiation support

We scale each deliverable to the commission and record the information reviewed, assumptions, material exclusions and decisions required. This also gives the team an auditable commercial record with clear figures and recommendations.

How the commission progresses

  1. Define the contractual and programme baseline
  2. Build the evidence-led chronology
  3. Test cause, critical effect and concurrency
  4. Present conclusions with stated assumptions

At the outset, QSEC agrees the review dates, document owners and format needed by the people making the decision. Next, we reconcile updates to the previous position so the team can see what has changed, why it changed and what action is required. Finally, we can provide a one-off review or integrate our advice into the project reporting cycle.

Who this service supports

  • Contractors
  • Subcontractors
  • Employers
  • Teams preparing or responding to time claims

Information that helps QSEC start efficiently

Useful initial information normally includes the current drawings and specifications, the signed or proposed contract, programme, procurement position, existing cost records and the decision or deadline that the advice must support. QSEC confirms any gaps before agreeing the scope, so responsibility and reliance remain clear.

Explore the next step

See how this support applies across QSEC’s construction sectors, review selected project experience, or contact QSEC about a live requirement.

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