Contract Administration, whether as Engineer to the contract (NZS3910) or Architect to NZIA Form of Contract, is one of the core skills of the Chartered Building Surveyor, professional Project Manager, and Registered Architect.
Although often incorrectly termed Project Manager, the Contract Administrator's role is to ensure the unbiased performance and execution of the building contract. The Contract Administrator does not represent the builder or the designer, but instead provides independent administration of the building contract on behalf of the Principal to ensure the project is administered effectively, and that the builder and Principal performs their duties under the contract.
The Contract Administrator's duties include chairing the Project Control Group (PCG) meetings; assessing and issuing instructions; agreeing variation orders; financial administration; agreeing progress payments; monitoring the programme; monitoring quality on-site; and ensuring all completion and warranty documentation is issued upon project completion.
