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Contracts

Notice to Proceed

A written document issued by the owner to the contractor authorizing and directing them to begin work, establishing the contract start date.

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In the Field

The NTP triggers the contract schedule — the clock on your completion date starts the day the NTP is issued (or the date stated in it). Don't mobilize before the NTP is in hand in writing. Verbal notices to proceed have caused contractors to start work on projects that were later cancelled.

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Rule of Thumb

The NTP date is day one of your contract schedule. If the owner delays issuance, document it immediately and request a contract completion date extension equal to the delay.