Delay records work best when captured daily
Delay evidence is hardest to rebuild after the event. A useful site diary records what happened on the day, who was affected, what evidence supports the note and what action was taken.
The aim is not to write a legal argument in the diary. The aim is to create a reliable daily record that can be reviewed later.
What to capture
- Date, project, location and affected work area.
- Labour, subcontractors, plant and materials affected.
- Weather, access, delivery or site-condition notes.
- Client instructions, design queries or missing information.
- Photos, documents, permits or inspection records.
- Actions raised, owners, due dates and follow-up notes.
Keep delay notes specific
Avoid vague entries such as "held up today". Record what stopped or slowed the work, when it happened, who was involved and what evidence is attached. If the impact is not known yet, say what needs to be checked next.
Link diary entries to actions
If a delay needs a response, the diary should create or link to an action. That makes it easier to see whether the issue was escalated, answered or carried forward.
How Zektrx helps
Zektrx helps contractors connect site diaries, photos, actions, documents and reporting so daily records are easier to search, share and defend.