
DEFINITIONS AND TERMS
In the construction industry, misunderstandings can arise between contractors, trade partners, and clients. Additionally, certain construction terms may be unclear. To eliminate any confusion, we provide clear definitions and explanations of terms, ensuring all parties are on the same page.
TIMELY MANNER

In a realistic, discussed, industry standard, or typical time frame
FALSE REQUEST

Requesting a product or service with malicious intent or no intent to purchase.
CONTRACTOR LICENSE BOND

This refers to a contractor license bond is a financial guarantee, often required for licensure, that ensures a contractor will adhere to licensing regulations and protect the public from financial loss if they violate the terms of their license. It's a surety bond that promises to pay damages if the contractor fails to comply with state or local laws.
PURPOSE:
The primary goal of a contractor license bond is to protect the public from financial harm caused by a contractor's failure to meet their obligations under the law
BID BOND

This refers to a bid bond is a type of surety bond that guarantees a contractor's bid is genuine and that they will complete the project if awarded. It ensures the project owner (the obligee) that the contractor will provide a performance bond and begin work at the agreed-upon price and terms. If the contractor backs out or fails to secure a performance bond, the obligee can make a claim on the bid bond to cover the costs.
PURPOSE:
Bid bonds are designed to protect project owners from potential financial losses if a contractor who wins a bid doesn't follow through
SUPPLY BOND

This refers to a supply bond is a type of contract surety bond that guarantees a supplier will deliver materials, equipment, or supplies as agreed in a contract. It assures the purchaser that they will receive the goods as promised or be financially compensated if the delivery falls short.
PURPOSE:
It protects the purchaser from potential financial losses if the supplier fails to deliver the goods as specified in the contract.
MAINTENANCE BOND

This refers to a maintenance bond, also known as a warranty bond, is a type of surety bond that guarantees a contractor will maintain a project for a specified period after completion, ensuring the work remains free from defects in workmanship and materials.
PURPOSE:
The primary purpose of a maintenance bond is to provide financial security to the project owner, ensuring that any issues that arise within the warranty period are addressed.
WARRANTY BOND

This refers to a warranty bond, also known as a maintenance bond, is a type of surety bond that guarantees a contractor will maintain a project for a specified period after completion, ensuring the work remains free from defects in workmanship and materials.
PURPOSE:
The primary purpose of a warranty bond is to provide financial security to the project owner, ensuring that any issues that arise within the warranty period are addressed
SURETY BOND

A surety bond is a three-party financial guarantee where one party (the surety, often an insurance company) promises to pay a second party (the obligee) if a third party (the principal) fails to meet a specific obligation. It acts as a safety net, ensuring the obligee receives compensation or that the obligation is fulfilled if the principal defaults
PAYMENT BOND

This refers to a payment bond is a type of surety bond that guarantees payment to subcontractors, laborers, and material suppliers on a construction project. It ensures that these individuals will be paid for their work and materials if the general contractor or another party fails to do so. PURPOSE: The primary purpose of a payment bond is to protect subcontractors, laborers, and material suppliers from the risk of non-payment by the contractor
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (DPW)

A government entity responsible for maintaining and improving the infrastructure and services essential to a community's well-being. They handle a wide range of activities, including managing roads, bridges, water and sewer systems, and other public facilities. Essentially, the DPW ensures the basic infrastructure that supports a community's quality of life is in good working order.
PERFORMANCE BOND

This refers to a bond issued by a bank or other financial institution, guaranteeing the fulfillment of a particular contract.
PURPOSE:
A performance bond's primary purpose is to safeguard a project owner from financial losses and ensure a contractor fulfills their contractual obligations. It acts as a financial guarantee, promising that the project will be completed according to the contract's terms and within the agreed-upon timeframe and price.
REMOVING RED TAPE

This refers to streamlining bureaucratic processes and regulations that cause unnecessary delays or obstacles, ultimately aiming for faster and more efficient project completion.
TRADE PARTNER

A subcontractor (company or individual) specializing in a specific aspect of a project, like plumbing, electrical, or HVAC, who is viewed as a collaborative partner rather than just a contractor.
CLIENT

The individual B FREE Construction is doing business with. This person has a corresponding email/phone / membership information.
OWNER

The individual or entity with legal rights and control over a property or project, including land, buildings, or a construction project, who funds the project and makes key decisions like hiring contractors and selecting materials.
SUBSTANTIAL COMPLETION

A construction milestone when a project is nearly finished and can be used for its intended purpose. It's a critical point in the project that triggers legal and contractual obligations, such as warranties and final payments.
CHANGE ORDER

A formal agreement to modify a construction contract. It can change the scope of work, timeline, or budget of the project.
ADDENDUM

A document that modifies, clarifies, or adds to the original contract. Addendums are often issued during the bidding process and become part of the contract when construction begins.