schedule compression

Acceleration vs. Constructive Acceleration: When the Contractor Has to Speed Up and Who Pays

Directed acceleration (owner orders work to be sped up) and constructive acceleration (owner refuses legitimate time extension, effectively forcing speed-up) have different legal treatment but similar practical effects. Proving constructive acceleration requires specific elements — legitimate delay, time extension requested, owner denial, acceleration in response, additional cost. Understanding the doctrine helps contractors protect themselves when owner actions push them to accelerate.