Builder's timeline keeps shifting - normal or red flag?

Totally get what you mean about the paperwork. I’ve run into “site cleanup” charges that were never mentioned until the final invoice - felt like they just made it up on the spot. Do you ever wonder if some of these fees are just standard practice, or is it more about testing how much they can get away with? I always wonder if I’m being too paranoid, but every time I let something slide, it comes back to bite me. Does anyone actually read every single clause in those contracts, though? Sometimes I feel like I’m missing stuff no matter how careful I am...

Title: Builder's Timeline Keeps Shifting - Normal or Red Flag?

I hear you on those hidden charges. Last project, I found a “fuel surcharge” tacked on that was never discussed. I do read the contracts, but honestly, there’s always something sneaky buried in there. It’s like they’re banking on us missing it. Even being careful, I’ve missed stuff - happens to the best of us.

Hidden fees are the worst - I've seen folks get blindsided by things like “administrative charges” or random surcharges that weren’t even in the original estimate. Even with a sharp eye, it’s easy to miss a line or two buried in the paperwork. It’s frustrating, but you’re definitely not alone. Sometimes it’s just poor communication rather than anything shady, but I always tell people to ask for a breakdown of every cost, no matter how small. Keeps everyone honest and on the same page.

Even with a sharp eye, it’s easy to miss a line or two buried in the paperwork.

That’s the truth. I’ve seen “coordination fees” pop up halfway through a project - no warning, just suddenly tacked on. Makes you wonder if it’s confusion or something more deliberate. Do you think some of these shifting timelines are just a way for builders to sneak in extra charges? Or is it really just supply chain chaos lately? I always ask for a full itemized list, but even then, things slip through.

I’ve seen “coordination fees” pop up halfway through a project - no warning, just suddenly tacked on.

That’s happened to me too, and honestly, it’s hard not to be suspicious. I get that supply chain issues are real, but when the timeline keeps shifting and new fees appear, it starts to feel less like chaos and more like a tactic. Have you ever tried putting penalties for delays in your contract? Curious if that actually helps rein things in or just makes things tense.