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Page 600

Introduction

14–001 A study carried out by NEDO identified unclear, or missing, information as a serious cause of construction defects and a recurring cause of disputes in themselves,1 probably due to poor management as the cause of poor record-keeping.2 However effective project and change control cannot be achieved without good records of what has been achieved, where, when, by whom and with what resources. The earlier good quality facts are established, the earlier the claim is likely to be settled, which, in turn, results in lower litigation costs and more successful settlements.