The Assessment of Applications for Extension of Time Claims in Malaysian Construction Industry

Abstract—Extension of time (EOT) has become a common construction activity in many construction projects, particularly when standard forms of contract is applied; and it has been treated as an excusable delay in ordinary construction contract. Contractor and supervising engineer often spend substantial time to verify and assess the delays. A variety of techniques have been employed for such assessments. However, the effectiveness of techniques adopted has been a critical factor in attracting multinational organisation for their participations in construction industry in Malaysia. The purpose of the study was therefore to analyze different EOT evaluation techniques used in Malaysia, and to probe reasons for delays in the submission and assessment of EOT. Issues such as treatment of float time and concurrent delay, agreed programmes, scheduling software and late payment had also been pointed out. Conclusions and findings on the suitability of different techniques used were obtained from the analysis of literature review and questionnaire survey from a consolidation of practitioners. The outcome of the study provides recommendations for solution for EOT related issues as well as improving the contractual procedures.