Liquidated damages are becoming a bigger challenge for subcontractors, especially post-COVID. Builders are using them more aggressively, sometimes unfairly holding subcontractors responsible for delays they didn't cause—or even helped avoid. On today's episode of the Tricks of your Trade podcast I break down the key contract clauses you need to review to protect your business, including commencement dates, practical completion, qualifying causes of delay, and more.

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Hi there! Today, I want to chat with you about something that trips up a lot of people in the construction industry—the Christmas shutdown period. While many industries keep rolling through the holidays, construction traditionally grinds to a halt, and that can lead to some unexpected headaches.

In this episode of the Tricks of Your Trade podcast, I dive into the three key ways this downtime can cause trouble and give you some tips to keep you ahead of the game - From payment claims, to contract deadlines, or project delays.

Christmas Shutdown Dates in Australia:

QLD: 22 December to 10 January (Inclusive)
NSW: 27 to 31 December (Inclusive)
ACT: 27 to 31 December (Inclusive)
VIC: No shutdown (Public holidays and weekends observed)
SA: 27 to 31 December (Inclusive)
NT: 25 December to 7 January (Inclusive) TAS: 27 to 31 December (Inclusive)

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Why does the construction industry feel so tough when today’s technology should be making it easier? It’s a question I couldn’t stop thinking about as I stood in the rain at Brisbane’s City Hall 🏛️ (yes, I was soaked!) Looking at the incredible 1920s hand-drawn blueprints of this iconic building, I couldn’t help but wonder—if they managed all that without modern tech, why are we struggling so much now?

In this episode of the Tricks of your Trade podcast, I dig into the shared frustrations of both builder staff and subbies. Whether you’re the one issuing contracts or the one stuck with them, we’re all navigating tight budgets, unrealistic timelines, and outdated practices. But there’s common ground—and fairer contracts are the key.

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In this episode, I’m diving into the critical clauses around variations in contracts—a topic that I've been asked about a lot lately. I’ll cover what to look out for before signing, including how long variations can be directed, whether you have the right to decline them, how they’re valued, and how margins on variations and credits are handled. I also touch on the importance of knowing your rights when it comes to fixing defects, especially with builders tightening their margins. I’ll share a real-world story about a tiler who got caught out by a clause, leaving them significantly out of pocket. Don’t let a simple oversight like this cost you!

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Today’s podcast is all about the five key basics you should ALWAYS check in any builder's contract before signing. I’m talking about the bare minimum things you can do to avoid common traps and pitfalls that could cost you big time down the line. From double-checking the contract sum, scope of work, and guarantees, these straightforward checks are essential! Don't sign without them!

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If you’re a subcontractor, chances are your builder’s thrown some frustrating phrases your way! In this episode of the Tricks of Your Trade podcast, I’m calling out those classic lines builders use to push back in negotiations—and giving you the tools to respond with confidence (and keep your cool).

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In this episode of the Tricks of Your Trade podcast, I share three essential tips to make your departure schedule shorter, and keep your builder happy.

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In this episode of the Tricks of the Trade podcast, I dive into a topic that's been on my mind for ages—the mathematical likelihood you'll end up in a dispute. Inspired by Survivor of all things, I discuss how predictable behavior can help you navigate contract disputes. I also break down a formula that sheds light on the probability of conflicts, the importance of doing due diligence, and the necessity of negotiating contract terms.

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Ever thought about mixing friends, family, and business? If so, you might want to reconsider! Today we dive into what I like to call: "The Neapolitan Ice Cream Theory".

In this episode of the Tricks of your Trade Podcast, we unpack why “love jobs” can be the riskiest ventures for your business with the least reward. Discover how mixing family, friends, and business can lead to a whole lot of mess and learn the golden rule: never break the Neapolitan ice cream theory!

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Have you ever heard the phrase, "It's better to have a gun and not need it than to need it and not have it"?

In this episode, I’m diving into how builders’ lawyers love throwing that around in contract negotiations— and why it’s not exactly great for building strong partnerships. I share some tricks for flipping the script, building better relationships on the job, and ultimately leading to better outcomes for both subbies and builders.

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