Meerwerk

Additional work consists of activities not included in the original construction contract or that deviate from the agreed specifications. This commonly arises in construction and contracting practice where, during execution, it becomes apparent that supplementary or modified works are required.

The regime governing additional work is relevant because it affects both the contract price and the completion period. The Dutch Civil Code and the UAV 2012 provide that additional work must be recorded in writing and that the contractor is entitled to reasonable compensation, unless otherwise agreed.

In practice, additional work frequently gives rise to disputes concerning whether the works are indeed additional and whether the client has given timely consent.