DEVELOPMENT OF FORENSIC FRAMEWORK FOR POST CONTRACT CONSTRUCTION COST
Solomon Michael Ojo1, Afeez Olalekan Sanni 2, Taiwo Rotimi Ebenezer3
1Department of Quantity Surveying, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Ogun State,
2Department of Quantity Surveying, The Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State,
3Department of Quantity Surveying, Ministry of Housing, Oke-Moson, Ogun State,
Email:goodsolex1@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
The need to ensure economical and transparent cost delivery of construction project is a major challenge in the construction industry. This study addressed this challenge by postulating a framework for carrying out forensic analysis of post contract construction cost (FAPCCC). The study identified the rightful initiator(s) of FAPCCC, identified and evaluated the prerequistes that necessitates FAPCCC, validated procedure for carrying out FAPCCC and postulated a procedural framework for carrying out FAPCCC.Quantitative methodology was adopted. Structured questionnairerandomly distributed using google form to various categories of Qunatity Surveyors targetingthe six geopolitical zones of Nigeria via online due to Covid-19 pandemic,formed the basis for data collection. Forty-five (45) responded and the obtained data presented in tables,were analysed using frequency distribution and percentage. Analysed data were discussed in comparison with extant literature and conclusion drawn. The findings of the study revealed that the client, project manager and project financier like Tetfund could initiates FAPCCC. Prerequisties for FAPCCC include suspected fraud, suspected collusion and final account excceded the initial budget without increase in scope of project, Timing for FAPCCC is dependent on each initiator but most respondents forty-one (41) out of forty-five (45) favoured carryong out FAPCCC after each interim valuation by consultant Quantity Surveying firms. Possible stages in carrying out FAPCCC were identifies and validated through the repsonses obtained from the target population. A flexible payment method (negotiation) proved to be most preferred as payment approach to forensic analysts and culprits should be responsible for the payment. The study concluded that the FAPCCC clause should be included in letter of commisioning of consultants and award letter to the contractor to discourage illegal activities that undermine financial probity of construction projects. The postulated framework would guide engaged professional Quantity Surveyors to carry out effective FAPCCC.
Keywords:construction cost, construction project, forensicframework, post contract
