Cash Flows Statement
What is a Cash Flows Statement?
A Cash Flows Statement, specifically in the construction industry, serves as a financial document that provides a detailed summary of a company's cash inflows and outflows over a certain period. This statement plays a crucial role in understanding the liquidity and solvency of a construction company as it helps track where the funds originate and where they get spent. It is segmented into three elements: operating activities (day-to-day operations of the construction business), investing activities (acquisition or disposal of assets), and financing activities (transactions with owners or lenders). It provides invaluable information for contractors, investors, and stakeholders, enabling them to scrutinize the financial health, operational efficiency, and investment potential of the construction company.
Trusted by trade contractors across the country













Other construction terms
What is Business Interruption Insurance?
Business Interruption Insurance, specific to the construction industry, is a critical coverage type that helps cover the loss of income suffered by a construction business when its operations are halted due to an unforeseen disaster, such as fires, floods, or other significant damages. This insurance can compensate for expenses like paying staff, renting alternative spaces, and even projected profit loss. For instance, if a storm damages a construction site, delaying work, the insurance will provide funds till normal operations can resume. It assists in ensuring the business continues surviving financially during the restoration period, adding a safety net for unpredictable circumstances. Given the nature of the construction industry, which is fraught with various perils, this insurance is of utmost importance.
What is an AIA Document?
An AIA Document, or American Institute of Architects Document, is an essential tool used in the construction industry. These standardized documents are crafted by the AIA, containing detailed contractual content that guides the relationships and roles among various parties involved in building projects, such as architects, contractors, subcontractors, and owners. AIA Documents serve as the benchmark in the industry, promoting consistency and transparency, while reducing the complexities and potential disputes in construction contracts. These cover a broad spectrum, with various series for different purposes, including design-bid-build, design-build, architect-engineer, and integrated project deliveries. Commonly used ones are A101, A102, and B101. Each contains specific terms, conditions, and legal provisions, playing a crucial role in managing risks and maintaining smooth project operations.
What is Direct Labor?
Direct labor in the construction industry refers to the workforce directly involved in the construction, alteration or development of a project. This primarily includes on-site workers like carpenters, bricklayers, electricians, plumbers, concrete finishers, steel workers and others who are hands-on in assembling, fabricating, and finishing physical components of a constructed entity. These are the personnel who directly contribute to the construction process by physically constructing or installing components of the project. The expenses incurred for this labor force, including their wages, benefits, and any associated costs, are considered as direct labor costs. It is crucial as the effectiveness and efficiency of the direct labor can greatly impact the project's quality, cost, and timeline. Therefore, project managers in the construction industry often focus a great deal on managing and optimizing direct labor.