Common Misunderstandings Clients Have About CCDC Contracts – From a Builder’s Perspective

When starting a construction project, most clients — whether they’re developers, business owners, or institutional property managers — expect the process to be guided by a clear and reliable contract. In Canada, that often means working with one of the standardized agreements developed by the Canadian Construction Documents Committee (CCDC). These contracts are widely used and respected in the construction industry for providing a fair and familiar framework.

However, as a builder, we often see clients misunderstand what these contracts actually do — and don’t do. While CCDC contracts are an excellent foundation for organizing the legal and logistical side of a project, they’re only as effective as the understanding and expectations behind them. At FCC Builders Canada, we don’t provide legal advice, but we’ve worked with enough CCDC-based projects to recognize where things often get lost in translation.

One common misconception is that the contract will solve all problems automatically. While CCDC contracts are designed to cover most scenarios — from payment terms to dispute resolution — they still rely on clear communication and proper project management to work as intended. A contract won’t manage trades, keep the site on schedule, or prevent weather delays. It’s a tool, not a substitute for active collaboration. When expectations are misaligned, even a solid contract can become a source of frustration rather than a safety net.

Another frequent misunderstanding is around change orders. Many clients assume that once a contract is signed, pricing and scope are locked in stone — but construction is dynamic, and changes are often necessary as site conditions evolve or new decisions are made. CCDC contracts include clear provisions for change orders, but clients don’t always realize how those changes affect cost and schedule. From a builder’s perspective, we always appreciate when clients understand that changes — even small ones — require proper documentation and may impact the project in real ways.

We also find that clients sometimes misunderstand how payment timelines work under CCDC contracts. For example, the CCDC 2 contract includes a defined payment process, including submission of a proper progress draw, consultant certification, and then payment within a set time (often 10 to 15 business days). However, clients may not realize how crucial it is to keep this timeline moving — delays in payment can stall the project, create tension with subcontractors, and even lead to lien claims. The contract provides a structure, but following it consistently is what keeps the job moving.

Another area that often causes confusion is risk allocation. CCDC contracts are designed to fairly distribute risk between the owner, the contractor, and the consultants — but not all clients understand where those lines are drawn. For example, if there’s a delay due to a permit issue, or a problem with the drawings, the contractor may not be responsible under the terms of the contract. It’s important to recognize that these agreements are not one-sided; they aim to balance protection for all parties involved. When everyone understands who’s responsible for what, the project flows much more smoothly.

We also see some clients assume that a CCDC contract can be used “as-is” without any adjustments — but in practice, many projects include supplementary conditions to suit specific needs. This might involve adding clarity to payment terms, defining roles more specifically, or accounting for site-specific risks. While it’s true that CCDC contracts are designed to be balanced and comprehensive, every project is different. Clients should be prepared to work with their legal advisors to review and tailor the agreement so it fits the actual structure and expectations of the project.

Finally, there’s sometimes a misunderstanding about how disputes are resolved. CCDC contracts include built-in dispute resolution mechanisms — typically starting with negotiation, followed by mediation, and then arbitration if needed. This structure is meant to avoid costly legal battles, but clients don’t always realize that these steps require active participation, documentation, and a willingness to resolve issues collaboratively. A successful resolution isn’t just about “what the contract says,” but how the parties choose to engage when something goes off track.

At FCC Builders Canada, our goal is to bring transparency, coordination, and professionalism to every project — and that includes helping our clients understand the process behind the paperwork. While we’re not lawyers, we do understand how CCDC contracts function on-site and how to work with clients, consultants, and legal teams to keep things clear and moving forward.

If you're planning a project and want a builder who respects the contract — and the people behind it — let’s talk. We’re here to build more than just structures. We’re here to build strong partnerships, grounded in trust, experience, and communication.

Ready to start your project on the right foot? Contact FCC Builders Canada today.