Even as the COVID-19 pandemic shows signs of ending, it continues to impact the construction industry.  Construction projects in the Northwest continue to face delay, disruption, cost escalation, and uncertainty.  Contractors and owners are confronting practical issues and disputes arising from schedule impacts, suspensions and terminations, supply chain problems, cost escalation, and insurance claims that call for new contracting strategies. Contract language is evolving to place a greater emphasis on appropriate risk allocation for issues caused by pandemics like COVID-19.

Groff Murphy is committed to helping our clients navigate the uncertainty created by COVID-19 and its impacts on the industry.  We are guiding clients through disputes involving suspensions, terminations, delays, impacts, and acceleration of work.  Many of our clients are achieving cooperative solutions in partnership with other project stakeholders and are continuing forward toward the successful accomplishment of project goals.  However, COVID-related disputes will continue to percolate through litigation and alternative dispute resolution, and Groff Murphy will continue to utilize our expertise and creativity to help our clients achieve the best possible outcomes.

Market conditions and supply chains remain volatile and risk allocation for new or developing projects is of critical importance.  As the industry works through the uncertainty and volatility it is crucial that contractors and owners understand and creatively address the ongoing issues.  Standard contract provisions and practices must be reevaluated in light of the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.