Case Study - Ground Conditions Matter

Ground Conditions Matter. $8 Million Recovered.

On a major industrial project, the geotechnical report recommended rapid dynamic compaction as the ground improvement method.

The contractor mobilised 8 compaction machines and worked for nearly 2 months, but the required results could not be achieved. Delays increased, pressure mounted, and the contractor was notified of possible termination.

I was then appointed by the contractor to review the matter. After travelling to site, reviewing the records, inspecting the works, and arranging further geotechnical investigation, it became clear that the actual ground conditions were materially different from those described in the original report.

As a result, the methodology had to be changed from rapid dynamic compaction to removal of approximately 2 metres of unsuitable material and replacement with selected engineered fill.
Based on the technical findings, site records, causation, delay and contractual entitlement, we prepared the contractor’s claim for EOT, disruption and additional costs.

The contractor was ultimately compensated approximately USD $8 million.

Lesson: successful claims require a clear link between technical evidence, causation, delay, cost and contractual entitlement.

Matrix Construction Claims Consultants
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