In a large building project, there are many possible issues that can lead to construction claims. As a large project often involves a collaborative effort between the owner and contractors, the potential for a breakdown in the communicated vision of the project can cause problems that will need the help of a construction claims expert to be resolved. This type of construction expert is able to use their industry knowledge and investigative skills to help resolve the issue before legal services are needed. The professional can also be used as a construction expert witness for problems that have already made it to the legal stage.

Workmanship and materials used are the most common types of construction claims that are issued in a large project. Sometimes a builder may make a change to the prescribed material due to availability or cost without communicating the change to the owner. In cases where the desired material was documented, the owner has the right to ask for reimbursement or replacement at the cost of the builder. In a similar vein, construction that is done poorly could lead to repairs being needed. An expert in construction will be able to identify these mistakes and help the owner to process a claim.

A delay in construction project completion is another source of construction claims. Not finishing on time can be a major hindrance for an owner, causing a loss of revenue that should be absorbed by the party responsible for the delay. The role of a claims expert would be to analyze why the project has not been completed by the deadline and make sure that the financial burden is on the responsible party. The benefit of using an independent expert is that they will provide an objective investigation of the construction project and can also be used in a court case if the problem cannot be resolved between the owner and contractors.