DSC

Differing Site Conditions: The Claim That Comes Up Out of the Ground

When excavation reveals subsurface conditions that weren't disclosed in the bid documents — rock where soil was expected, groundwater where it wasn't, contamination, obstructions — the contractor often has a differing site conditions claim. The contract clauses governing DSC claims have specific notice and documentation requirements. Handled properly, they recover real cost impact; handled carelessly, they get denied on procedure.