The 2017 FIDIC Suite placed a renewed emphasis on proactive project management and dispute avoidance. A cornerstone of this philosophy is the detailed and prescriptive process for submitting and managing claims, governed primarily by Sub-Clause 20.2.
The Notice Requirement: The First Hurdle
A party' entitlement to an extension of time or additional payment hinges on its compliance with the notice provisions. The claiming Party must give a Notice to the Engineer, describing the event or circumstance giving rise to the claim, as soon as practicable and not later than 28 days after the claiming Party became aware, or should have become aware, of the event.
This 28-day period is a strict time bar. Failure to comply can be fatal to a claim, underscoring the need for diligent contract administration.
The Fully Detailed Claim Submission
Following the initial Notice, the claiming Party has a further period—either 84 days or another period proposed by the claimant and agreed by the Engineer—to submit a "fully detailed claim." This submission must include complete supporting particulars of the basis of the claim and of the extension of time or additional payment claimed.
Understanding these interlocking timelines is not just a matter of compliance; it is fundamental to protecting your contractual rights and ensuring the financial health of the project.