The owner lacks clarity on what needs to be repaired, constructed, or completed.

The estimated costs exceed the owner's expectations.

The written specifications are not formatted in a way that the owner finds acceptable.

There was reliance on guesswork for comparisons.

The owner is overly focused on the final cost and disputes any unspecified extras not included in the contract.

The owner approaches the project as if they are seeking a bargain, similar to shopping at Wal-Mart.

The contractor did not obtain written approval for the scope of work to be performed.

The owner assumes the contractor will meet all expectations, regardless of what was specified.

The owner believes that all permitting issues and project conditions are included in the original estimate.

The owner expects the contractor to absorb any unforeseen costs, thinking they have already paid a substantial amount.

The owner did not review or understand the design drawings.

The contractor failed to have the owner sign the contract and plans.

The contractor must ensure the owner signs the design plans, which should be referenced in the contract and dated.

The contractor assumed that the building plans would be approved by the building department, which influenced the project cost.

The design drawings contain numerous errors, and the owner is reluctant to accept responsibility for additional costs.

The contractor initiated the project on a design/build basis.

Existing conditions changed after construction commenced.

The owner did not allocate a budget for unforeseen issues and requirements.

The contractor did not communicate that the project is a "PROCESS" that requires completion.

There are no contractual specifics documented for undefined issues, such as existing conditions like termite damage, structural failures, weather conditions, or operational challenges.

Payment and project stage approvals are based on a draw schedule for work completed.

The contractor does not manage and control the project according to the contractual costs involved.

Job reports are not regularly documented.

Communication between the contractor and the owner has not been consistently maintained.

The contractor works for the owner and oversees the project.

Trade contractors operate under the general contractor's supervision.

Instruction sheets are signed off for approval.