Document the event, not the story you remember later
Capture dates, work fronts, directed changes, and who communicated them. Where weather, access, or predecessor hold-points stop productive work, record start and finish times, resources held ready, and units not achieved. Vague diary lines are hard to defend when a client asks for proof weeks later.
Align notices with your subcontract
Most NSW packages still require prompt notice even when the delay feels obvious. Pair field notes with notice dates, method of service, and the clause you rely on (EOT, variation, relief event). Commercial teams should not have to reconstruct the trail from informal chat.
Quantify labour and plant with traceable rates
Use agreed hire rates, rostered crews, and machine hours where you can. When standing time is challenged, reviewers look for consistent rate sources and a clear link from the delay record to the cost line.
Use tools that keep evidence in one thread
Between spreadsheets, photos in phones, and ad-hoc emails, detail gets lost. DelaySolve helps civil subcontractors standardise delay capture and exports. For same-shift paperwork, the free Dayworks Docket Generator gives supervisors a consistent PDF layout for labour, plant, and instructions.
This article is general information only; it is not legal advice. Get contract-specific advice from a qualified professional.
