What are construction claims and how are they processed?

Claims are formal requests for additional time or money due to events not the claimant's fault. Common causes: differing site conditions, design changes, owner delays, acceleration directives. Claim process: (1) Provide timely notice per contract requirements, (2) Document events contemporaneously (daily reports, photos, correspondence), (3) Demonstrate entitlement per contract provisions, (4) Calculate damages (labor, materials, equipment, overhead, lost productivity), (5) Submit formal claim package, (6) Negotiate resolution. If unresolved, proceed to dispute resolution (mediation, arbitration, litigation).