What Does a Contract Administrator Do in Construction?
When you’re entering into a formal building contract, it’s vital that someone is responsible for administering that contract properly and independently. That’s where the Contract Administrator (CA) comes in.
At ONFORM, we regularly act as Contract Administrator across projects in Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Surrey and London — helping clients manage contracts, control changes, and ensure everything is done by the book.
What Is a Contract Administrator?
A Contract Administrator manages the terms of the building contract between the client (employer) and the contractor. They are responsible for:
Issuing instructions and formal notices
Certifying interim payments and the final account
Monitoring progress and delays
Managing change control (variations)
Ensuring compliance with contract terms
Their role is essential to keeping the project fair, accountable, and legally compliant — for both parties.
When Do You Need a Contract Administrator?
You typically need a CA when:
You’re using a formal contract like JCT Standard, JCT Intermediate, or similar
You want clear documentation for payments, delays, or design changes
You’re not experienced in contract law or construction risk
You want someone impartial to manage the relationship with the contractor
Without a CA, the contractor may end up self-certifying work or managing disputes directly — which puts the client at risk.
What Does the Contract Administrator Do During the Project?
Throughout the project, the CA helps ensure everything is properly documented and agreed. This includes:
Reviewing and issuing the building contract
Certifying valuations and issuing payment certificates
Issuing instructions or approvals for changes
Assessing claims for extensions of time & loss and expense
Recording delays and issuing notices where necessary
Managing snagging, defects liability, and final completion
Agreeing the final account
They also often assist with collateral warranties, insurances, and compliance documents.
What’s the Difference Between a CA and a Project Manager?
A Project Manager focuses on the broader coordination — managing the team, tracking progress, and keeping the client updated.
The Contract Administrator’s role is more legal and procedural — ensuring the contract is correctly followed.
At ONFORM, we often combine both roles, giving our clients one consistent point of contact while ensuring both the practical and contractual sides of the project are properly managed.
Why Choose ONFORM for Contract Administration?
We bring over 18 years of experience across residential, commercial and mixed-use developments. We help:
Set up contracts with clear and fair terms
Keep payments and variations under control
Monitor performance and resolve issues early
Ensure the contract is closed out cleanly and professionally
Whether you’re a developer, homeowner or asset manager, we offer hands-on, proactive contract administration — without overcomplicating things.
✅ Need a Contract Administrator in Bournemouth, Poole, Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey or London?
Contact ONFORM today for a free, no-obligation conversation about how we can support your project and protect your interests.