Minderwerk

Less work arises when the client causes certain works included in the original agreement to be omitted or when such works are not performed for other reasons. Unlike additional work, which gives rise to extra costs, less work results in a reduction of the total price the contractor is entitled to charge.

The concept is relevant in construction and contracting practice because it directly affects the financial settlement of a project. Both the contractor and the client must make clear arrangements for the settlement of less work in order to prevent subsequent disputes.

In practice, less work is often recorded in a schedule of additional and omitted works. The contractor is required to pass on the actual savings realised, although disputes may arise as to the extent of those savings.