Download Prospectus


How cost management is used in construction projects.

You may have read some previous articles about construction projects, and noticed cost management mentioned as being the responsibility of a few different project roles.  Cost management is an important part of a construction project to ensure a budget is in place.  It also ensures that the project sticks to the budget.

So, it stands to reason that cost management techniques are important.  They help all the project financials run smoothly.  But what are they?

This video gives an overview of what construction project finances are.  Let’s jump into some of the techniques we use in a construction project.

Payment Method

Many times in construction projects the fee for services will increase.  This can be for several different factors, such as scope creep, unforeseen constraints, or unforeseen delays.  This makes the process of paying for services challenging, especially when there is a delivery deadline.  In most projects the contractor or consultant will issue an invoice to the client with a payment deadline on it.

Normally, the invoicing schedule has been previously agreed with the client and could be, for example, monthly or every 2 months.  In other cases, a unique schedule might be agreed and might revolve more around the financial year.

After the invoice is issued, the client needs to pay by the deadline, usually 30 days from the invoice date.  This might change if there are disputes or enquiries around the invoice and services it relates to.

a hand holding credit cards

Letter of Credit (LOC)

This is a financial guarantee from a financial institution like a bank.  It ensures that a certain amount will be paid when requested.  They are commonly used in construction projects to reduce the risk to the contractor, consultant, or client.  The bank will commonly step in to protect the payment to the seller if the client is unable to pay for the services.  It can also protect the client as there is an agreement in place between the client and the contractor/consultant if the work is not completed to a satisfactory quality.

A flowchart showing how a letter of credit works

Surety Bond

This is a credit instrument that binds the contractual obligations between the client and contractor/consultant.  They assure financial security, giving buyers confidence that the contractors/consultants will complete work according to the terms agreed.  Mostly this relates to the quality of the work provided.

flowchart showing a surety bond

Performance Bond

This guarantees satisfactory completion of a project by a contractor/consultant.  The bond protects the client if the contractor/consultant fail to meet the agreed obligations in the contract.

parties involved in a surety bond

Interested in our courses?

Interested in civil engineering? Find out more about all the civil engineering courses we have available by clicking here.

Diploma in Civil Engineering

Diploma in Renewable Energy

Diploma in Sustainable Construction

Diploma in Structural Engineering

Diploma in Building and Construction Engineering

Higher International Certificate in Civil Engineering

Higher International Diploma in Civil Engineering 

Alternatively, you can view all our online engineering courses here.

Recent Posts

Your Complete Guide to iLearn Engineering® Courses and Qualifications

Your Complete Guide to iLearn Engineering® Courses and Qualifications iLearn Engineering® offers a structured and flexible pathway for aspiring engineers to achieve accredited qualifications equivalent to traditional university degrees. As a leader in providing online engineering courses, iLearn Engineering® emphasises accessibility, affordability, and quality, designing programmes that cater to a global audience. Visit the iLearn […]

Furthering Your Engineering Career: The International Graduate Diploma (Level 6) – the online engineering degree alternative

Furthering Your Engineering Career: The International Graduate Diploma (Level 6) – the online engineering degree alternative As you look to advance your engineering career, pursuing a traditional university degree can often feel restrictive, both financially and in terms of time commitment. iLearn Engineering® offers a flexible, fully accredited online engineering degree alternative through the innovative […]

Advancing Your Skills: The Higher International Diploma (Level 5)

Advancing Your Skills: The Higher International Diploma (Level 5) If you’ve completed or are currently pursuing the Higher International Certificate (Level 4), you’re already familiar with foundational engineering principles—mathematics, science, and design. Now, it’s time to build upon these foundations, deepening your expertise and preparing yourself for greater challenges and exciting opportunities in your engineering […]