Utah Contractor Practice Exam

What is the best way to avoid a dispute or lawsuit related to a contracted job?

1. Be very specific about the work to be done: Review the contract and specifications line-by-line with the owner

2. Write a change order

3. Schedule an on-site meeting with the owner

4. Have an attorney explain the job description to the owner

The correct answer is: Be very specific about the work to be done: Review the contract and specifications line-by-line with the owner

Being very specific about the work to be done is the best way to avoid disputes or lawsuits related to a contracted job. A clear and detailed contract helps ensure that all parties have a mutual understanding of the project scope, expectations, timelines, and responsibilities. By reviewing the contract and specifications line by line with the owner, both the contractor and owner can address any ambiguities or questions before work begins. This level of detail minimizes the potential for misunderstandings later on, which is often the root cause of conflicts in construction projects. While writing change orders, scheduling meetings, or having an attorney explain things can contribute to good communication, they do not provide the same foundational clarity that a specific and careful review of the contract does. Change orders, for example, are typically reactive rather than proactive; they come into play after a dispute has arisen over changes in the project scope. Regular meetings can facilitate ongoing communication but without a solid initial understanding, they may not prevent misunderstandings from occurring. Similarly, while legal advice can clarify contract terms, it’s the comprehensive understanding between the parties about the specifics of the work that truly helps in preventing disputes from the outset.