Marine construction contractors face unique challenges when working on projects like building dams or conducting operations in waterways. These are often large government contracts that require immense preparation and attention to detail and require experienced surveyors to determine a more realistic cost.
Marine construction contractors face unique challenges when working on projects like building dams or conducting operations in waterways. These are often large government contracts that require immense preparation and attention to detail and require experienced surveyors to determine a more realistic cost.
Even with thorough surveying and analysis conducted by skilled professionals, no method can fully predict how conditions will evolve throughout a project. Contractors often discover quickly that conditions beneath the surface are far different from initial expectations, potentially leading to significant additional expenses. In some cases, these unexpected conditions result in contractors seeking hundreds of thousands of dollars in payments to recover sunk costs. Planning for these realities is critical to managing risk and protecting your bottom line.
What's Under the Surface for Marine Subcontractors?
The conditions of seabeds and riverbeds often defy any sort of exact science. Layers of soil, rock, and other materials can vary widely, directly affecting the scope of work and the resources required. Marine subcontractors need to thoroughly explore the subsurface environment to properly budget and bid for projects, particularly when dealing with government contracts. Without a thorough understanding of these conditions, unforeseen challenges can lead to skyrocketing expenses.
It's imperative that you do all the surveys necessary to properly budget and bid for a project, especially when you're working directly with the government. Consider factors like the stability of the sea or riverbed, explore the subsurface, however possible and to the extent that answers key questions about the work, and bring in subject matter experts who understand the environmental risks and impacts associated with that specific region.
Collaborating with qualified specialists who understand regional environmental dynamics can further illuminate potential risks. Contractors who neglect these steps may be overwhelmed by the financial burden of addressing unexpected subsurface challenges. The key lies in doing everything possible to uncover these unknowns before committing to a project.
Additional Subsurface Risks to Consider
You don't know what you don't know until you've dug deep enough, but we can at least prepare for the common risks crews find when digging underneath waterways. Subsurface conditions can be unpredictable and bring with them a range of complications. Changes in water flow during excavation, for instance, can destabilize your equipment and disrupt schedules. Similarly, shifts in the integrity of the riverbed or seabed during digging can create unsafe working conditions or compromise the viability of the structure being built.
Another common issue is the discovery of previously unidentified pipelines or cables beneath the surface. These leftover parts of unreported work or decommissioned utilities can pose serious hazards and delay progress. Additionally, dredging equipment can malfunction when encountering unexpected materials, leading to costly repairs and lost time. Contractors must also account for the inherent risks to workers in dangerous environments. Poor conditions can escalate the physical risks to crews, requiring strict safety protocols and additional resources to ensure their well-being.
Prepare Your Bid for Marine Construction and Get the Compensation You Deserve
Navigating the muddy waters of marine construction requires thorough preparation and careful budgeting. Arnold, Willis & Conway works directly with marine contractors and their businesses to address these and other issues to secure the compensation they deserve for this important work. If subsurface conditions have left you facing unexpected costs, we can help you recover what’s fair. Contact our experienced team in Dyersburg, TN, to discuss your situation and ensure your rights are protected.