Construction Industry Advisor
Showing 97–112 of 262 results
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New AIA contracts emphasize insurance requirements
Fall 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 426
Abstract: AIA construction contracts are among the most commonly used documents in the industry. In April 2017, the AIA updated its forms, making a number of significant revisions particularly focused on insurance. This article takes a closer look at the changes.
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Reviewing retainage, in concept and practice
Fall 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 651
Abstract: One way construction project owners look to mitigate risk is through retainage. Many contractors’ feelings about this range from annoyance to outrage, yet the practice continues. This article reviews the concept of retainage and suggests some ways to potentially mitigate its negative effect.
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Does your company need a controller or CFO?
Fall 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 520
Abstract: Many contractors reach a point where they should either appoint or hire a controller or Chief Financial Officer (CFO). But the differences between these two roles are often misunderstood. This article describes some of the typical responsibilities of both jobs and suggests some circumstances under which hiring a controller or CFO may be wise.
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Year-end tax planning – Explore 2017’s key areas
Fall 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 910
Abstract: As the end of 2017 approaches, it’s once again time for contractors to explore strategies for reducing their companies’ tax bills. This article explores some key areas — including deferrals and accelerations, depreciation breaks and tax credits. A sidebar looks at the potential impact of tax reform.
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6 tips for more effective change orders
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 436
Abstract: In the construction industry, change orders are a fact of life. The trick is making them a profitable one! This article provides six tips to better managing the process, including obtaining prompt approval and (usually) not providing freebies.
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Waivers of subrogation: Are you really protected?
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 544
Abstract: It’s common for a construction contract to contain a “waiver of subrogation” provision under “insurance requirements.” Unfortunately, these provisions are widely misunderstood. This article defines this legal concept and explains important points for contractors to keep in mind.
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Cross-training can help mitigate the labor shortage
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 673
Abstract: The construction industry continues to struggle with a shortage of skilled labor. One way contractors can mitigate the problem is by making better use of the workers they already have on staff through cross-training. This article explores the concept and its applications.
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Consider a different route – 4 accounting alternatives that may reduce financial reporting costs
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 907
Abstract: Many privately held construction companies prepare audited financial statements that comply with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). But, for some contractors, the limited value of doing so is undercut by the additional cost and complexity. This article describes four alternatives that construction businesses may use to ease the GAAP compliance burden. A sidebar looks at good questions to ask during an accounting method review.
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Sec. 199 deduction looking better for contractors
Spring 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 438
Abstract: For many years now, contractors have been advised to look into the Section 199 tax deduction for “domestic production activities.” A recent IRS Technical Advice Memorandum addressed this tax break, clarifying the rules in a way that might benefit some construction companies. This article explores this positive development.
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Is a joint venture the right choice for your company?
Spring 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 666
Abstract: For construction companies, joint ventures can provide great opportunities under the right circumstances. But a contractor may be better off walking away from getting involved in one of these arrangements if the risks are too great. This article looks at both the potential advantages and inherent dangers of joint ventures.
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The WIP is good: A valuable management tool
Spring 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 535
Abstract: To see the road ahead, and any hazards that may be coming up, contractors need to generate regular work-in-progress (WIP) reports for every job. This article names some of the key data points that every WIP report should contain and explores the many benefits of tracking this information.
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Succession planning – Look at things from a surety’s perspective
Spring 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 930
Abstract: In developing a succession plan, it’s important for contractors to consider the objectives and needs of company owners as well as their family members. But it’s equally important to examine the plan from a surety’s perspective. This article poses a variety of questions that a bonding provider will likely ask about a succession plan. A sidebar looks at the potential role of an employee stock ownership plan.
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Help yourself and the environment with recycled materials
Winter 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 443
Abstract: Using recycled and reclaimed materials for construction projects can benefit the environment. Although doing good is its own reward, construction companies that use or produce such materials can also reap financial advantages. This article looks into construction and demolition sites, where contractors can procure or sell recycled items, and construction byproducts can be turned into building materials.
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Looking for skilled workers in all the right places
Winter 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 667
Abstract: The construction industry has long faced a shortage of skilled labor. One might hope a new year would bring good news, but statistics and general sentiment indicate that there will be no breakthrough anytime soon. This article offers some ideas for finding skilled construction workers and working toward a solution to the shortage.
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Third-party funding helps contractors pursue claims
Winter 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 542
Abstract: To avoid the high cost of litigation, many contractors fail to pursue even strong claims or settle for far less than they deserve. This article explores an increasingly popular option that may help with this dilemma: third-party funding, in which an outside party agrees to finance some or all of a claimant’s legal costs in exchange for a portion of any recovery.
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Soggy numbers – 6 common accounting mistakes to avoid
Winter 2017
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 921
Abstract: In a tumultuous industry like construction, it’s all too easy to let crisp, timely financials go soggy with outdated data and flat-out mistakes. This article describes six common accounting errors to avoid, including inaccurate allocation of overhead and failure to recognize loss contracts. A sidebar looks at a forthcoming accounting standard addressing revenue recognition.