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Excusable delay

An excusable delay is a delay caused by events outside the builder's control, giving them an extension of time without penalty.

Planning, Contracts, and Permits

Why it matters

It differentiates between a builder simply running late (which might trigger penalties) and delays caused by external factors.

Where people get this wrong

Common excusable delays include bad weather, homeowner changes, or city inspection delays. Poor scheduling by the builder is not an excusable delay.

Real-world example

You decide to change the kitchen layout, which takes two weeks to finalize. The builder gets a two-week excusable delay added to the completion date.

Where this hits your build

This comes up early, before construction starts. It affects your contract, your budget, or both. Misunderstanding it can cost you money or leverage.

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