What Is A Cost-Plus Contract In Construction? Definition, Examples.

What Is A Cost-Plus Contract In Construction? Definition, Examples.

A cost-plus contract in construction is an agreement where the contractor is reimbursed for all the costs associated with a project, including labor, materials, subcontractor profit, expenses, allowances, and change orders. In addition to the project costs, the contractor also receives a fee to cover their overhead and profit. This type of contract is used when the project owner wants to start the project quickly or when the scope of work is unclear, making it difficult to estimate the total cost.

However, it’s important to note that the total price for a cost-plus contract may end up being higher than other contract types. The contractor’s fee can be calculated as a percentage of the total project cost or a fixed fee that accounts for their overhead and profit. Cost-plus contracts are most commonly used between project owners and general contractors, although they can also be used between general contractors and specialty contractors.

This contract type offers some advantages, such as easier negotiations and the ability to start projects without a clear scope, but it also has disadvantages, including the unknown final cost and the potential for disputes over reimbursable expenses.

Key Takeaways:

• Cost-plus contracts in construction involve reimbursing the contractor for all project-related costs, including labor, materials, and expenses.
• The contractor also receives a fee to cover their overhead and profit.
• Cost-plus contracts are used when the project owner wants to start quickly or when the scope of work is unclear.
• The total price for a cost-plus contract may be higher than other contract types.
• Disadvantages of cost-plus contracts include the unknown final cost and potential disputes over reimbursable expenses.

Types of Cost-Plus Contracts and Their Advantages

In the world of construction, cost-plus contracts come in various forms, each offering its own advantages for both project owners and contractors. Let’s explore the different types of cost-plus contracts and the benefits they bring to the table.

1. Cost-Plus Fixed-Fee Contracts: This type of contract provides the contractor with reimbursement for all project-related costs, including labor, materials, and any additional expenses. In addition to the cost reimbursement, the contractor also receives a fixed fee that covers their overhead and profit. The advantage of this contract is that it provides a clear and predictable compensation for the contractor, ensuring they are adequately compensated for their work.

2. Cost-Plus Incentive Fee Contracts: In this contract arrangement, the contractor is not only reimbursed for all costs but also receives additional fees if certain performance expectations are met or exceeded. The incentives can be tied to factors such as project completion time, quality standards, or cost savings. This type of contract incentivizes the contractor to excel in their performance and deliver exceptional results.

3. Cost-Plus Percent-of-Cost Contracts: With this contract type, the contractor’s fee is determined as a percentage of the total project cost. As the project costs increase, the contractor’s fee also increases proportionally. This type of contract ensures that the contractor is adequately compensated for their work, regardless of any unforeseen expenses or changes in the scope of the project.

Advantages of Cost-Plus Contracts

Cost-plus contracts offer several advantages compared to other contract types:

• Flexibility: Cost-plus contracts provide flexibility for project owners, especially when the scope of work is unclear or when there is a need to start a project quickly. It allows for adjustments and variations as the project progresses.
• Transparency: These contracts require detailed documentation of all project costs, ensuring transparency in financial matters.
• Collaboration: Cost-plus contracts encourage collaboration between project owners and contractors, as they work together to define project requirements and manage costs effectively.
• Improved Control: With cost-plus contracts, project owners have greater control over the project’s direction, as they can closely monitor and review each expense.

Overall, cost-plus contracts provide flexibility, transparency, and control, allowing for effective project management and a collaborative approach between project owners and contractors.

Note: The table above provides a summary of the types of cost-plus contracts and their advantages.

Disadvantages of Cost-Plus Contracts and the Role of Guaranteed Maximum Price

While cost-plus contracts offer certain advantages, they also come with their fair share of disadvantages. One of the main drawbacks is the uncertainty surrounding the final cost of the project. Since the total price cannot be predetermined, owners may face difficulties in budgeting and financial planning. This uncertainty can often lead to anxiety and stress throughout the duration of the construction process.

Another disadvantage is that cost-plus contracts may result in longer project timelines. Since the contractor is reimbursed for all project costs, there may be less incentive to complete the work efficiently and within a specific timeframe. This can cause delays and frustration for both the owner and other parties involved.

In addition, disputes over reimbursable expenses can arise in cost-plus contracts. Owners and contractors may have differing opinions on what expenses are reasonable and should be reimbursed. This can lead to disagreements and potential legal or contractual conflicts, further complicating the construction process.

To mitigate some of these disadvantages, a solution that can be implemented is the use of a guaranteed maximum price (GMP). A GMP is a contractual agreement that establishes a limit on the total cost of the project. This puts a cap on the expenses that the owner will have to bear, ensuring a level of financial certainty. By setting a GMP, owners can have better control over their budget and reduce the risk of unforeseen costs.