How to Record Weather Delays on a Building Site

Writing 'rained all day' rarely explains what actually happened on site. A useful weather record connects the conditions to the work, time and practical response.

The aim is not to make a dramatic claim. It is to create a clear record that another person can understand later.

Record the weather as it changes

• Approximate start and finish times
• Changes in rain, wind, heat or cold
• Ground and access conditions at arrival
• A weather source or screenshot where useful
• The actual conditions observed on site

Identify the exact work affected

Do not describe the whole project as delayed if only one activity stopped. Record the planned task, location, crew, plant or delivery affected and whether the work stopped, slowed or moved elsewhere.

Exterior membrane installation on the east elevation stopped at 10:05 am due to wind-driven rain. Two installers moved to internal preparation work in Units 2 and 3.

Separate lost time from changed work

A weather event does not always mean the whole crew lost the same number of hours. Note each crew or activity, what was planned, what actually happened and the time affected.

Photograph the condition and its effect

• Standing water or saturated ground
• Unsafe or blocked access
• The exposed work area
• Temporary protection
• Material condition
• The activity that could not proceed

Record the response

• Moved the crew to another activity
• Installed or repaired temporary protection
• Pumped water or protected materials
• Contacted a supplier or subcontractor
• Rescheduled an inspection or delivery
• Checked the next suitable work window

Note the programme effect carefully

There is a difference between a task being interrupted and the project completion date changing. Record the immediate effect and update the programme impact when it is known rather than guessing.

Roof-sheet installation moved to the next suitable work window. Programme effect to be reviewed after confirming the roofing crew's availability.

Connect the record to project notices

1. 1

   Check the project documents

   Use the actual contract or agreed procedure rather than a generic assumption.

2. 2

   Identify the notice requirement

   Confirm the method, recipient and any relevant timing.

3. 3

   Send the notice separately

   Reference the factual site record and supporting photographs.

4. 4

   Update the record

   Add the known programme effect and next review date.

This is general record-keeping information, not legal or contractual advice.