Documentation Requirements
Construction documentation requirements come from contracts, regulations, and practical needs. Here's what you need to know.
Types of Requirements
Contractual Requirements
- Progress photos specified in contract
- Monthly documentation for draw requests
- As-built records for handover
Regulatory Requirements
- Building permit documentation
- Safety compliance records
- Environmental monitoring
Insurance Requirements
- Evidence for claims
- Risk documentation
- Incident records
Quality Standards
- ISO certification records
- Quality inspection documentation
- Test results and verification
How Cameras Address Requirements
| Requirement | How Cameras Help |
|---|---|
| Progress documentation | Automatic daily/weekly progress photos |
| Milestone verification | Timestamped photos proving completion dates |
| Dispute evidence | Complete visual timeline for any disputes |
| Safety documentation | Site conditions visible in every photo |
| Stakeholder reporting | Easy export for reports and updates |
Beyond Minimum Requirements
Meeting minimum requirements is baseline. Best practice is exceeding them. Comprehensive camera documentation protects you in ways that minimum requirements don't anticipate. The dispute you'll face isn't one you planned for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documentation do most construction contracts require?
Common requirements include: progress reports (often monthly), photos documenting key milestones, daily logs of activity, and as-built documentation at completion. Specific requirements vary by contract. Cameras automate the photo component continuously.
Are there legal requirements for construction documentation?
Varies by jurisdiction. Building permits may require certain documentation. Some jurisdictions require safety logs. Beyond legal minimums, contracts often specify additional requirements. Camera documentation typically exceeds minimum requirements.
How does camera documentation compare to manual photo logs?
Camera documentation is continuous, automatic, and timestamped. Manual logs depend on someone remembering to take photos. Cameras never forget, never miss a day, and create an objective record. They complement rather than replace human observation.
What if my contract doesn't require cameras?
Many clients use cameras even without contractual requirements. The documentation value for disputes, progress tracking, and marketing often exceeds the cost. Cameras are increasingly standard practice even when not explicitly required.
Related Topics
Exceed Your Requirements
Continuous camera documentation provides better records than minimum requirements demand.
