Owner-Contractor Disputes

Black Powder Consultants is actively building its library of case files. The example below is an illustrative scenario that demonstrates how we approach different types of disputes. While the case is generic, it reflects the depth of our experience in managing multimillion-dollar projects, reviewing contracts and scopes of work, conducting site inspections, and delivering expert reports that withstand legal scrutiny. Our qualifications, licensure, and project management expertise ensure that we are fully capable of supporting cases like those outlined below

Scenario (Illustrative Example):
Disputes often arise between property owners and contractors over scope, cost overruns, and schedule delays. A typical example might involve an owner alleging that excessive change orders and poor project management inflated project costs, while the contractor maintains that all changes were necessary and properly executed.

Our Approach:
In such cases, Black Powder Consulting would perform an independent review of the contract, scopes of work, and submitted change orders. Our process includes:

  • Comparing the executed contract terms with the actual work performed.

  • Verifying that change orders were properly documented, authorized, and priced in line with contract provisions.

  • Assessing whether schedule impacts were supported by contemporaneous records and project documentation.

Expected Findings:
Through this review, we would identify both areas of compliance (where the contractor’s actions aligned with the contract) and areas of concern, such as unauthorized change orders, costs beyond allowances, or unsupported schedule extensions.

Outcome:
The result would be a comprehensive expert report providing objective, defensible evidence of contract compliance and non-compliance. This report would equip attorneys with the clarity needed to support negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation strategies.